SOLIDWORKS Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, depending on what you plan to use:
3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS (desktop apps) require installation:

• SOLIDWORKS Connected
• NC Shop Floor Programmer

SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers (browser-based apps) do not require installation.

Note: SOLIDWORKS Connected cannot be installed on the same computer as a commercial SOLIDWORKS installation with the same release year.

Yes, you do need a foundational license of SOLIDWORKS Design (Standard, Professional, or Premium) to run SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation. The flow simulation package operates as a fully integrated add-in rather than a standalone program. This integration allows you to run CFD directly on your active CAD geometry without exporting files to another software package.

Yes, you must have a base SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation license to use either of these advanced, specialized add-in modules. The Electronics Cooling and HVAC modules function as extension packs that unlock specific capabilities, like two-resistor models, thermal comfort parameters, and much more. They cannot run independently without the core flow simulation engine active underneath them.

SOLIDWORKS for Makers is the license for home and hobby use. It covers makers, hobbyists and DIY builders working on personal, non-commercial projects, with a yearly revenue limit set out in the usage restrictions above. Work done as a business needs a commercial license.

Activation is a onetime process which does require that you have Internet or email access. Once you have activated, you do not need to be online to use your software. If you wish to transfer a license, or repair your activation, you must be connected to the Internet or send request via email.

Yes, because the SOLIDWORKS installation or upgrade needs to update system DLLs and drivers, which require administrative privileges. Note that you are only required to have administrative privileges on the machine on which you are installing or upgrading SOLIDWORKS.

Yes. SOLIDWORKS Subscription Services directly addresses the interoperability friction that slows down supplier coordination, customer handoffs and late-stage design revisions. One of its most practical capabilities is the ability to save files back to previous SOLIDWORKS releases, giving teams flexibility when collaborating with partners on different software versions.

Without subscription, engineering teams often normalize workarounds—exporting to STEP or Parasolid, re-importing geometry and rebuilding design intent—that introduce real rework overhead across critical project milestones. Subscription Services reduces these friction points through:

• Ongoing interoperability improvements built into each new release
• Backward-compatible file saving to support cross-version collaboration without forcing simultaneous upgrades
• Cloud Services for secure design sharing and markup with suppliers, without requiring them to have a SOLIDWORKS license

Not necessarily. Many teams turn to SOLIDWORKS Subscription Services initially to regain flexibility, access technical support, improve compatibility, and ensure supported upgrade paths. This approach enables organizations to plan their upgrades more strategically, rather than reacting under operational pressure to urgent changes.

A dedicated getting started page has everything you need to get up and running, from download and install to onboarding and tutorials. Visit the Getting Started page.

A dedicated getting started WIKI has everything you need to get up and running. Upon purchase you will receive access to the WIKI.

A dedicated getting started page has everything you need to get up and running from download and install to onboarding and tutorials. After purchase, you’ll receive an email with getting started resources.

No. Only read and execute permission are required.

Certain anti-virus (AV) applications do not allow system resources to be updated if they are in use. The other issue with having the AV on during installation is performance-related. With that said, most users cannot turn off their AV software due to corporate IT policy. If you are using one of the recommended AV programs, you should not experience issues installing SOLIDWORKS. See the System Requirements page for details.

Home use licenses are no longer available.

Yes, an SNL fully supports SOLIDWORKS Add-ins.