Solidworks

How to Change License Key in SolidWorks?

Understanding License Key Changes in SOLIDWORKS

Changing the license key in SOLIDWORKS can be necessary for various reasons, such as upgrading to a new version or transferring the license to another machine. The following guide provides a step-by-step approach to effectively change your SOLIDWORKS license key.

Step 1: Launch SOLIDWORKS

Begin by opening the SOLIDWORKS application on your computer. Ensure that you are logged in as an administrator to avoid facing permission-related issues during the activation process.

Step 2: Accessing the Help Menu

Once SOLIDWORKS is running, navigate to the menu bar at the top of the window. Look for the Help option and click on it. This will reveal a dropdown list of various support options.

Step 3: Selecting the Licensing Options

From the dropdown menu, choose Licenses, and then select Change My License Key or Activate Licenses (the exact naming may vary depending on the version you are using).

Step 4: Entering the New License Key

You will be presented with an interface to enter your new license key. Carefully input the key you wish to use, ensuring that there are no errors in the characters. After entering the key, click Next to proceed.

Step 5: Verify Your Information

SOLIDWORKS will present a summary for you to review. Confirm that the license key you have entered is correct, along with your associated contact information. If everything is accurate, proceed by clicking Activate or Finish to continue the process.

Step 6: Completion Confirmation

After the activation process is complete, SOLIDWORKS will notify you that the license key has been successfully changed. You may need to restart the application to ensure the new key is fully integrated into your SOLIDWORKS setup.

Step 7: Troubleshooting (if necessary)

If you encounter any issues during the activation process, consider:

  • Verifying the internet connection, as SOLIDWORKS requires online access for activation.
  • Checking for any firewall or antivirus settings that may block SOLIDWORKS from connecting to the activation server.
  • Ensuring that your current version of SOLIDWORKS supports the new license key.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use multiple license keys on the same computer?
No, SOLIDWORKS only allows one active license key per installation. You must deactivate the current license key prior to entering a new one.

2. What should I do if I don’t have internet access during activation?
If internet access is unavailable, you can use the offline activation method by selecting the option during the activation process. Follow the prompts to generate an activation request file, which you can submit through another device with internet access.

3. Can I switch back to my old license key after changing it?
Yes, you can revert to your previous license key. Simply follow the same steps outlined above to enter the old key. Make sure your previous key is still valid and not deactivated.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.