SOLIDWORKS Frequently Asked Questions

A SOLIDWORKS Reseller Partner, also known as a Value-Added Reseller (VAR), is an independent business that sells and supports SOLIDWORKS design and product development software. SOLIDWORKS resellers work directly with customers to help them implement, optimize, and get the most value out of their purchase. If you need help deciding on a solution to fit your business, Reseller Partners have the industry expertise to help you make the best selection. Learn more about Reseller Partners or contact us to connect with an expert in your area. 

Your email address can't be changed for the first 30 days after purchase. After that, log in to your 3DEXPERIENCE ID profile, edit your email, and click Update. Until the 30-day period ends, use your original email to access the platform.

Use the mesh and geometry analysis tools in SOLIDWORKS for Makers to detect thin walls, unsupported overhangs, and weak spots before printing. These checks help ensure your design is strong, printable, and ready for your slicer software.

Use motion studies to simulate propeller rotation and verify that your blades clear the frame and surrounding components. You can also test multiple configurations digitally before committing to physical parts.

This can be verified by modifying the existing installation of SOLIDWORKS on the computer. You need to follow the steps below for modifying the installation:

1. Make sure SOLIDWORKS® is not running.
2. In Windows, open the Control Panel and go to Programs and Features.
3. Select the SOLIDWORKS® installation you want to modify and then click 'Change'.
4. On the Welcome screen, ensure that 'Modify the individual installation (on this computer)' is selected and click ‘Next’.
5. On the Serial Number screen, verify that the appropriate serial numbers are specified and click ‘Next’.
6. On the Product Selection screen, select the products to install or remove, and then click ‘Next’.
   When modifying an installation:
   • No products are installed or removed by default, even if you specify a new serial number. You must change the installation action of each product or feature.
   • To view the projected modification action for a particular component, click the component name (but not the check box). The intended modification action appears in the information field below the product listing.
   • To see the available features for each product, click + next to that product and then click the icon next to the product or feature to change the installation actions.
   • When you change a product selection from the initial specification, an asterisk (*) appears next to that product component in the listing.
7. On the Summary screen, click Modify Now.
8. Once the ‘Installation is Complete’ screen, click Finish.

Restart your computer.

Enable Offline Mode in 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers before the update begins — click your profile icon in the top right of SOLIDWORKS Connected and select "Work Offline." Make sure your files are downloaded locally first. See the Maker | Support community for full setup details.

Follow the steps below for deactivating a SOLIDWORKS license:

1. Open SOLIDWORKS on your current system.
2. In the SOLIDWORKS window, navigate to Help > Deactivate Licenses.
3. In the SOLIDWORKS Product Activation window, select the products and click on the 'Next' button.
4. Once the deactivation is successful, you will be able to install and activate this license on the new system.

Upon purchase, you will receive instructions to download and install. 

Upon purchase you will receive instructions to download and install.

SOLIDWORKS Simulation is included in your SOLIDWORKS Design download and can be installed from the Installation Manager using a serial number while installing SOLIDWORKS Design.

Use the Search bar at the top of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform to find files by name. For recently created files, click the clock icon or 'Show my recent content.' In SOLIDWORKS Connected, use the 3DEXPERIENCE Open dialog to search for files saved to the platform. For a full guide to all search methods, visit the Maker | Support community.

CAM tools for CNC machining are available through the NC Shop Floor Programmer role, included in your 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers subscription. To install it, log in to your Makers platform, click the Compass, and select Shop Floor Machining. Your computer needs Windows 10 or 11, an active internet connection and at least 13 GB of free disk space. Run the Cloud Eligibility Checker first to confirm compatibility.

• Search the 3D ContentCentral online help
  Search the online documentation for answers.
• Ask questions in the 3D ContentCentral Forums
  The forums are a great place to interact with other users and get questions answered.
• Find Content on 3D ContentCentral
  Visit 3D ContentCentral to get started.

Support is not provided by resellers for 3D ContentCentral.

• Search the eDrawings online help
  Search the online documentation for answers
• Ask questions in the eDrawings Forums
  The forums are a great place to interact with other users and get questions answered.
• Review eDrawings Frequently Asked Questions for answers
  Review a list of common eDrawings questions
• Report a Problem
  If you did not find an answer you can request support

Start by refining your CAD model—use fillets, smooth transitions, and mesh repair before exporting. Print at a finer layer height (0.1–0.15 mm) and sand or prime the finished part for a polished look. SOLIDWORKS for Makers helps visualize surface quality and ensure a clean final print.