Introduction

Installing and administering SOLIDWORKS can seem daunting, whether you’re setting it up for a single user or deploying it across multiple systems. This guide breaks down the process, providing clear instructions for both individual and multiple installations. Learn about licensing options, upgrades, and the powerful tools included in SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager.

Individual Installations vs. Deploying Multiple Installations

When setting up SOLIDWORKS, you can choose between individual installations and deploying multiple installations. Here’s a detailed look at each approach:

Individual Installation:
1) Installation: Suitable for setting up SOLIDWORKS on one or a few computers.

2) Licensing: Can use machine activation or network licensing.

3) Upgrades: Move individual computers to new releases with ease.

4) Administration: Modify, repair, and remove installations or upgrade to new releases as needed.

Deploying Multiple Installations:

1) Installation: Create an administrative image to deploy SOLIDWORKS across multiple client computers.

2) Licensing: Supports machine activation or network licensing.

3) Upgrades: Update the administrative image to move multiple computers to a new release.

4) Administration: Upgrade administrative images and clients, and manage network licensing.

Licensing with SolidNetWork License Manager
SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager is your go-to tool for configuring settings across various SOLIDWORKS components, including SOLIDWORKS Toolbox, SOLIDWORKS Electrical, SOLIDWORKS Manage, SOLIDWORKS PDM, SOLIDWORKS Visualize, and SolidNetWork License Manager.

Using SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager
SolidNetWork License Manager enables flexible licensing options by distributing licenses to clients on the network. This system allows the number of users to exceed the number of licenses through floating licenses, optimizing resource use and cost efficiency.

Key Considerations Before Installation

• Individual Installation or Administrative Image: Decide if you should install SOLIDWORKS on each computer individually or create an administrative image for deployment across multiple clients.
• System and Software Requirements: Ensure your system meets the necessary hardware, operating system, and Microsoft product requirements. Note that add-ins like SOLIDWORKS Electrical, SOLIDWORKS Visualize, and eDrawings have additional requirements.
• Download Installation Media: Access all necessary installation media from the SOLIDWORKS Downloads Page.
• Installing 3DEXPERIENCE Apps: If you use the 3DEXPERIENCE platform for data management, consider purchasing the Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS role to integrate your desktop environment with the platform.