SOLIDWORKS Frequently Asked Questions

You can stream SOLIDWORKS to HTML5 compatible browsers, including the latest versions of Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Internet Explorer, and Microsoft Edge, on desktop devices, including Windows, Mac, Chromebooks, and Linux PCs.

This error is related to the installation of prerequisite VC++ components. To troubleshoot the issue, try reinstallation of VC++ components manually:

1.  Go to Start > User Account > User Account Control Settings. Set it to “Never Notify”. Restart the system
2.  Login as administrator
3.  Uninstall VC++ redistributable components (2008 and 2010 and 2012, 2013, 2015) from Programs and Features
4.  Restart the computer
5.  Login as administrator
6.  Reinstall: VC++ 2008 and 2010 and 2012, 2013, 2015
   
   [a] downloaded files\prereqs\VCRedist9\vcredist_x86.exe and vcredist_x64.exe
   [b] downloaded files\prereqs\VCRedist10\vcredist_x86.exe and vcredist_x64.exe
   [c] downloaded files\prereqs\VCRedist11\vcredist_x86.exe and vcredist_x64.exe
   [d] downloaded files\prereqs\VCRedist12\vcredist_x86.exe and vcredist_x64.exe
   [e] downloaded files\prereqs\VCRedist14\vcredist_x86.exe and vcredist_x64.exe
    
7.  Restart your computer
8.  Login as administrator
9.  Install SOLIDWORKS

Your reseller provides first line support for SNL or Standalone products

All SOLIDWORKS products are on product activation and will be required to activate with the exception of eDrawings.

Starting with SOLIDWORKS 2019-2020, add-on products like CAM, Composer, Electrical, Simulation, Flow Simulation, etc. are included under the CAD serial number itself.  You are not required to input serial numbers separately to install these products.  Just enter the serial number for CAD; all other fields should be empty and deselected.

Note that SOLIDWORKS PCB, SOLIDWORKS PDM, and other server products are not part of the list of products included with SOLIDWORKS CAD. You will need a separate serial number if installing these products. SDK licenses are entitled to only SOLIDWORKS Standard products. You can find the list of features for SOLIDWORKS Standard through the product matrix at this link - www.solidworks.com/solidworks-3d-cad 

It indicates that the SDK-ID has already expired. An SDK-ID is sent to a school/college/university from the reseller. Please contact your school/college/university to get the newest SDK-ID.  If the SDK-ID has expired, the school needs to contact their reseller to request for a new ID.

You might be receiving this error during installation because you may not be using a supported virtual machine for SOLIDWORKS.

Note that SOLIDWORKS is not supported on all virtual machine environments. You can find the list of supported environments with this link: www.solidworks.com/SystemRequirements

Student Edition serial numbers are version-specific. Hence, this warning will be given if the serial number used for installation is not entitled to the version selected during installation (mismatch). From the download drop/down list, make sure to select the entitled version (the version you purchased) and then download and install again.

Common causes include thin walls, unsupported overhangs, or poor bed adhesion. Use SOLIDWORKS for Makers’ geometry and mesh checks to spot weak areas before printing. You can also adjust support angles and part orientation to reduce stringing and layer separation.

This error can occur if the Installation Manager is not able to connect to the SOLIDWORKS download servers. Try the following to resolve the issue:

Procedure A:

1. Set Internet Explorer as your default browser and reset Internet explorer to default settings. In the IE browser > Tools > Internet Options > Advanced and click “Restore advanced settings” and click “Reset” at bottom.
2. Close browser and restart it
3. Change IE compatibility mode: In IE menu >Tools > Compatibility View (select the option) and/or Compatibility View Settings, check the box "Display all websites in Compatibility View"
4. Try to download and install SOLIDWORKS

Procedure B:

If the issue is still not resolved, add the following domains to the firewall’s/proxy server exceptions list:

1. solidworks.com
2. im-ak.solidworks.com
3. dl-ak.solidworks.com
   use port 80 for adding all the above exceptions. Then try to download and install again

Procedure C:

There might be an issue with your Internet connection. Please check with your Internet service provider and see if they can help.

Usually when the Installation Manager (IM) is reporting that incorrect operating system is in use, it indicates that the SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager (IM) is running in “compatibility mode.”

Please try the following:

There are 3 possible .exe files that could cause this. 

1. exe (the file that is downloaded),
2. exe (launches the IM),
3. exe (the actual installation manager)

Right click on each .exe and select Properties, then select -> Compatibility tab; ensure that it is not set to “run as XP.” If it is, unselect this option and then re-run the installation.

Product activation is a simple way to reduce and deter unauthorized use and casual copying of SOLIDWORKS products with a minimal effect on our loyal customers.

During an upgrade, you may need additional file to verify the installed files, to repair those files that are corrupt, to replace files that have been accidentally deleted, and to reinstall system components that have been erroneously modified by other applications. The Installation Manager will optionally download these items for you.

Enrolling in Subscription Services helps you get the most out of your SOLIDWORKS software because access to the latest product releases and expert technical support saves you time and money.  Improved software performance, innovative new product features, live technical support and 24 hour electronic technical support helps keep you focused on what matters most designing great products.

SOLIDWORKS no longer mails out certificates to individuals who have passed an exam.  We have made it a simple download that you can print from your computer so you no longer have to wait to receive it.  To print your certificate simply visit https://3dexperience.virtualtester.com/#home. On that page, simply click the "Download Certificate" button and follow the on-screen instructions.  Please note that not all exams have printable certificates.