SOLIDWORKS Frequently Asked Questions

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Today, SOLIDWORKS requires local installation on a Windows PC. See system requirements here.

We do not currently offer any SOLIDWORKS tools through the browser platform - it is limited to free evaluations and trials only.

To move your software to a new computer you, first need to transfer your software license. Transferring your software license will immediately deactivate the software on your original computer so that you can activate your software on a new computer.

We collect the minimum information required to successfully verify the product license for each product installation, which includes: the product serial number, name, version, and language; the operating system name, version, and language; and your computer’s processor and hard-disk type. This information is combined, encrypted, and then sent to SOLIDWORKS for verification.

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.

A license server is a workstation that is set up to serve license clients. The license server grants permission to license clients to execute SOLIDWORKS.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The goal of the Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional Program is that it establishes an Industry standard by which SOLIDWORKS professionals are evaluated. This evaluation is completed using a fair, comprehensive test of your knowledge of SOLIDWORKS both in the areas of Mechanical Design and Design Validation. Completing the evaluation will accomplish two goals. First, on an individual level, achieving certification establishes you as a highly competent professional in the use of SOLIDWORKS. Second, for the hiring managers, acts as a valuable assessment to attest for the individual’s competency, thereby reducing the amount of time and energy required to research prospective candidates.