# Genuine SOLIDWORKS FAQs

Get answers to frequently asked questions and protect yourself from the risks of non-genuine software.

![SOLIDWORKS-Genuine-Software-hero-001.jpg](/sites/default/filesd10/styles/webp/public/migration/2018-10/SOLIDWORKS-Genuine-Software-hero-001.jpg.webp)

#### What is software piracy?

Software piracy is the illegal and unauthorized downloading, copying, modifying, use, or distribution of copyrighted software that violates the terms of the

- [End User License Agreement (EULA)](/solidworks-corporation-license-and-subscription-service-agreement-eula). Find out more about

- [SOLIDWORKS License Agreement](/solidworks-corporation-license-and-subscription-service-agreement-eula).

#### What are the risks associated with non-genuine software?

The use of non-genuine software puts consumers and businesses at legal and technological risks, which include:

- Increased risk of civil penalties and criminal prosecution, resulting in loss of capital, reputation and credibility
- Increased risk of exposure to cyber-security threats and malwares that compromise your computers and network, resulting in the loss of confidential data and resources to rectify potential problems
- Increased risk of system failures and network outages, reducing business productivity and loss of opportunities
- No access to technical support, critical updates, version upgrades, and technical documentation

#### What is a genuine SOLIDWORKS software?

A genuine SOLIDWORKS software is legally licensed and should only be purchased directly from

- [Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks Corporation](https://www.solidworks.com/how-to-buy) or through an

- [authorized SOLIDWORKS reseller](https://www.solidworks.com/how-to-buy).

#### What are the benefits of purchasing a genuine SOLIDWORKS software?

A genuine SOLIDWORKS software comes with access to the latest features, updates and upgrades, technical support and a plethora of information and resources through SOLIDWORKS Customer Portal. In addition, free certification exams are available to validate your team’s skills and highlight areas of training for improved productivity.

#### If I believe that I have a non-genuine software, what should I do?

1. Uninstall the non-genuine software from your machine
2. Replace it with a SOLIDWORKS Genuine software
3. [Report the suspected non-compliant reseller, marketplace or website](https://www.3ds.com/piracy/) where you bought the non-genuine software

#### How could this be happening?

It is not uncommon that consumers to purchase or use non-genuine software unknowingly. Unauthorized resellers often offers non-genuine software with an attractive package to entice unknowing customers into purchasing.

#### How do I protect myself against non-genuine software?

You should only purchase software directly from

- [Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks Corporation](https://www.solidworks.com/how-to-buy) or through an

- [authorized SOLIDWORKS reseller](https://www.solidworks.com/how-to-buy).

Avoid online marketplaces, websites and peer-to-peer networks that offer SOLIDWORKS software for free or at a discounted price.

Adopt Software Asset Management standards and best practices to manage your company’s software lifecycle and reduce the risks of litigation that arise from non-compliance issues.

#### How do I report a reseller who has sold me non-genuine software?

You can report the suspected non-compliant reseller

- [here](https://www.3ds.com/piracy/).

#### How does SOLIDWORKS prevent piracy?

As a worldwide 3DEXPERIENCE Company, we discover companies inadvertently use unlicensed software due to a lack of proper software asset management and software procurement policies. This in turn puts them at risk of liability from improper software license usage.

We recommend companies to carry out a regular review of your organization’s software usage to ensure that you remain protected and compliant.