SOLIDWORKS Frequently Asked Questions

SOLIDWORKS AI refers to a set of intelligent capabilities that assist engineers by automating repetitive tasks, providing design guidance, and enabling workflow-level orchestration through both embedded features as well as Virtual Companions you can interact with via natural language.

Artificial intelligence (AI) in CAD software refers to systems and AI models that perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. This includes learning from user actions, recognizing patterns and making predictions. For CAD designers and mechanical engineers, this means tools that can automate repetitive tasks, suggest next steps and assist in the overall design process. This technology helps improve your workflow and accelerate product development.

Drone CAD software enables you to design and test drones with precision before building them. With SOLIDWORKS for Makers, you can create frames, arms, propeller mounts, and housings for multirotor or fixed-wing drones, ensuring a perfect fit, strength, and balance for your build.

The CSWP exam is a comprehensive, non-proctored online exam that tests an individual’s ability to design and analyze parametric parts and movable assemblies using a variety of complex features in SOLIDWORKS, including design validation tools. A Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional is an individual that has successfully passed this exam.

Cloud Services connects your SOLIDWORKS data to the cloud-based 3DEXPERIENCE platform. This connection enables you to leverage built-in tools to easily share and mark up designs, store and revise your data in the cloud, and manage and control the release of engineering data to manufacturing.

Visit the Cloud Services page to watch demo videos and learn more about collaborative design with SOLIDWORKS.

Cloud-based CAD refers to a CAD (Computer Aided Design) system that operates on a cloud platform, allowing users to work on their designs via the internet. Unlike traditional CAD systems that are installed on local computers, cloud-based CAD is accessible from any device with an internet connection, which enhances collaboration and flexibility.

Cloud-based CAD systems offer many of the same capabilities as their traditional counterparts, but they also provide additional benefits such as:

• Real-time, multiuser collaboration on projects
• Robust version control to maintain design integrity
• Reduced hardware costs as all computation is done in the cloud server

Genuine SOLIDWORKS software is legally licensed and should only be purchased directly from Dassault Systèmes SOLIDWORKS Corporation or through an authorized SOLIDWORKS reseller.

• Access to new releases and software updates available for download on the Customer Portal
• Local Technical Support provided by your Value Added Reseller
• MySolidWorks.com – Training, 24/7 Knowledge Base, and Discussion Forums
• Access to exclusive products such as SOLIDWORKS Visualize Standard* and SOLIDWORKS CAM**
• Access to Certification exam vouchers 
• And so much more!

* Available to download for every SOLIDWORKS Professional and Premium license on active Subscription 
** Available to download for every SOLIDWORKS Standard, Professional, and Premium license on active Subscription

Technical support comes in two forms:

• Live support includes live technical support from your local SOLIDWORKS value-added reseller (VAR) who has been trained and certified by SOLIDWORKS to help you trouble shoot an array of technical issues.
• Electronic support includes an abundance of resources all accessible online.  These resources include access to the Knowledge Base, tech tips, help files, tech alerts, web casts, service request reporting and tracking through our 3DSupport App, access to our Enhancement Request community and more. Please visit our SOLIDWORKS.com support home page for links to these resources.

The value of SOLIDWORKS Subscription Services extends far beyond the ability to download the latest service pack. Active SOLIDWORKS Subscription Service provides SOLIDWORKS users with practical tools that support the full design-to-manufacturing process. With access to Cloud Services, teams can collaborate more effectively, share designs with stakeholders on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, and maintain secure access to current design information from supported devices.

SOLIDWORKS Subscription Service also includes value-added tools for engineers, such as SOLIDWORKS Visualize and SOLIDWORKS CAM. SOLIDWORKS Visualize helps create high-quality renderings and visuals for design reviews, sales presentations and marketing materials, while SOLIDWORKS CAM helps streamline manufacturing preparation by automating machining workflows and improving programming efficiency.

Product activation is an anonymous, secure, and hassle free process that authenticates licensed users during the installation process. The process verifies that the serial number is legitimate, and has not been activated on more systems than allowed by the SOLIDWORKS End-User License Agreement (EULA). It does not affect the ability of licensed users to use their software the way they always have.

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). Find out more about SOLIDWORKS License Agreement.

For the first time ever, qualified students get free access to SOLIDWORKS Design Standard, the industry-leading 3D CAD software used by professionals and educators. This is the only free SOLIDWORKS student version available.

The easiest way to order SOLIDWORKS Subscription Services is to contact your local VAR. If you are unsure who your VAR is, please contact SOLIDWORKS and we will assist you.

SOLIDWORKS for Makers gives you professional-grade modeling and assembly tools for personal projects at home. You can model precise components, simulate how they fit together, and visualize every detail before printing or machining your part. It’s ideal for restorations, custom upgrades, and creative automotive builds.