SOLIDWORKS Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Whether you’re working on a single bracket or a full machine enclosure, SOLIDWORKS for Makers enables the management of multi-part assemblies with motion studies and constraints, allowing you to visualize every moving component before machining.

Yes. SOLIDWORKS for Makers enables you to create detailed, curved, or organic shapes, such as helmets, armor, masks, and props. You can combine surface and solid modeling tools to sculpt smooth, wearable parts that capture every contour of your design.

Yes. You can design modular sections that fit your workspace, printer, or CNC bed, then assemble them virtually to ensure proper fit and alignment before building the physical model.

Yes. Many car enthusiasts use SOLIDWORKS for Makers to restore or upgrade vintage cars by designing precise replacements for hard-to-find parts. You can model parts from photos, print a 1:1 template to test fit, and even create custom layouts for dashboards or body panels before fabrication.

Yes, students with a valid serial number for Student Edition and Student Engineering Kit (SEK) products can access the MySolidWorks.com web portal. Please note that the Student Design Kit (SDK) does not provide access to the MySolidWorks web portal, except for limited “Guest” access.  More information is available here:

www.solidworks.com/mysolidworks_for_students

Link to MySolidWorks : https://my.solidworks.com/

Steps to register: www.solidworks.com/mysw_student_reg

No. Once started, exams cannot be paused.

Yes, the SNL License Manager can read multiple serial numbers for different SOLIDWORKS products.

The Subscription Service fee will be pro-rated for additional users. All seats will be tied to the same subscription period.

No, the number of seats for each add-on is independent from each other and the number of SOLIDWORKS seats.

No. SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers runs entirely in your browser. No download or installation is required on any device. Log in at the Makers Dashboard to start making.

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.

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.

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.