SOLIDWORKS Frequently Asked Questions

No, once installation is complete the only way to change the data directory is to uninstall, then reinstall the software.

Yes. Product development takes a full team, and SOLIDWORKS Design with the cloud helps your teams work together from any location, improving design efficiency and communication while streamlining product development to meet business goals. SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services, SOLIDWORKS Design, and SOLIDWORKS xDesign are all connected to the 3DEXPERIENCE® platform, a cloud-based business and innovation platform that scales with you. Here’s a preview of what the cloud can do for you on day one:

• Connect all stakeholders inside and outside of your organization with a single source of truth
• Easily share and markup designs with any stakeholder
• Store and revise models with secure, CAD-aware cloud storage

Yes. Product development takes a full team, and SOLIDWORKS with the cloud helps your teams work together from any location, improving design efficiency and communication while streamlining product development to meet business goals. 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS is connected to the 3DEXPERIENCE® platform, a cloud-based business and innovation platform that scales with you. Here’s a preview of what the cloud can do for you on day one:

Connect all stakeholders inside and outside of your organization with a single source of truth 
Easily share and markup designs with any stakeholder in 3D 
Store and revise models with secure, CAD-aware cloud storage

Yes. SOLIDWORKS for Makers supports flat pattern and 2D template exports, making it ideal for crafting with foam or creating paper-based Pepakura builds. Simply unfold surfaces or export DXF outlines to guide precise cutting and assembly.

Yes. You can create and simulate assemblies to check for fit, interference, and motion before fabrication. Makers often use these tools to refine brackets, mounts, or housings, ensuring precision before cutting or printing.

Absolutely. You can scan or measure existing parts, rebuild them in SOLIDWORKS for Makers, and adjust the design to fit your needs. Many users create custom dashboards, mounts, or trim upgrades, combining digital precision with hands-on craftsmanship.

Absolutely. Use assemblies and motion studies to test how moving elements work before building. This is ideal for props featuring gears, wings, light-up panels, or folding mechanisms that require smooth movement and precise alignment.

Yes. You can measure, model, and re-create broken or missing parts such as knobs, handles, or brackets. Test your designs digitally before printing or rebuilding to ensure a perfect fit and reduce wasted materials.

You are encouraged to discuss your exam with an authorized training and support provide or fellow SOLIDWORKS users.  The SOLIDWORKS Certification cannot share the answers or solution methodology so as not to prejudice your next attempt. 

Due the complexity of an online testing environment, where every candidate receives a unique exam, we are unable to provide individuals with hands on analysis of improvement areas in their exam.  However, we can encourage you to visit our public website, where you will find a list of exam topics that you should be proficient in for each exam.

Yes. SOLIDWORKS for Makers automatically creates cut lists, bills of materials, and part drawings that update as your design evolves. This helps you plan efficiently, estimate material needs, and minimize waste before you start building.

You can increase or decrease the number of licenses through your reseller.  You will need to re-activate through the SNL license manager for the changes to take effect.

Student Edition serial numbers allow for two simultaneous activations. You can install and activate SOLIDWORKS on two systems at a time. Hence you can use the same serial number to install and activate SOLIDWORKS on another system.

Yes. Starting with SOLIDWORKS Student Edition 2020-2021, this serial number will license the previous version of Student Edition 2019-2020. The same will be true for future releases, licensing the previous year's release. 

Absolutely. You can create 3D-printed connectors, brackets, or decorative elements that integrate with wood or metal structures. This blend of digital and traditional making is ideal for custom fixtures, hybrid furniture, or modular builds.

Yes. You can experiment with different materials, wall thicknesses, and lattice patterns to reduce weight while maintaining strength. Combined with 3D printing, this approach helps improve flight time and overall performance.