How to Install SOLIDWORKS Desktop Software
In this tech tip we provide an overview of how to install the SOLIDWORKS standalone desktop version. This process applies to perpetual or term license of SOLIDWORKS Standard, Professional, or Premium. If you are looking to install a SOLIDWORKS network license then review these blog posts:
- Installing a SOLIDWORKS Network (floating) License
- Not sure which license type you have then review our SOLIDWORKS License Buyers Guide
- And if you are installing the latest version of SOLIDWORKS on a machine with an existing older version you can review how to run a SOLIDWORKS upgrade installation.
Access SOLIDWORKS Software
SOLIDWORKS software is available to SOLIDWORKS Subscription Service customers and can be downloaded from the SOLIDWORKS website.
- Go to https://www.solidworks.com/sw/support/downloads.htm
- If you are visiting the downloads page for the first time you will need to pick log in
On the 3DEXPERIENCE ID login page (DSXClient) enter your email address and password and pick the log in button. If you do not have a 3DEXPERIENCE ID pick the Create your 3DEXPERIENCE ID link and use your email address to create an account. When you have successfully logged into the DSXClient you will be returned to the downloads page on the SOLIDWORKS website.
SOLIDWORKS Downloads
Now you can download SOLIDWORKS desktop software from the SOLIDWORKS website. The last four versions/releases of SOLIDWORKS are available to choose here, and you can select the Service Pack (SP) that you require:
- In Downloads page select the version you require from the dropdown menu
- Pick the SOLIDWORKS Products link adjacent to the service pack you require (pick the highest number SP if you are a new customer):
You then need to accept the license agreement to download the software by picking the Accept Agreement and Continue button at the foot of the page:
Run the SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager
Now you can download the SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager to get started with the installation process:
- Select the Download link in the page and a zip file will download from the SOLIDWORKS web site. This file is around 32MB and will manage the installation process for you without having to manually download files
- After the SolidWorksSeup.exe zip file has completed downloading run the SolidWorksSeup.exe file from your local machine