Get your SOLIDWORKS 2017 Update frequently asked questions answered below:

• SOLIDWORKS 2017 General Information
• SOLIDWORKS 2017 Installation
• SOLIDWORKS 2017 Standalone licensing
• SOLIDWORKS 2017 SolidNetWork Licensing (network/floating) licensing
• SOLIDWORKS 2017 Activation

SOLIDWORKS 2017 Update General Information

How can I learn about the new features in SOLIDWORKS 2017?

• Visit our SOLIDWORKS 2017 Resources page.
• Visit the SOLIDWORKS 2017 Launch Site.
• Launch SOLIDWORKS 2017 and go to Help > What’s New.

What Windows Operating Systems will be supported by SOLIDWORKS 2017?

IMPORTANT – SOLIDWORKS 2017 is not supported on any 32-bit operating system.

The following operating systems are supported by SOLIDWORKS 2017:

• Windows 7 SP1, 64-bit
• Windows 8.1, 64-bit
• Windows 10, 64-bit

*Windows Home Editions are not supported
*Only Microsoft Windows networking is supported.  Novell networks and non-Windows network storage devices are not supported

Please see the SOLIDWORKS System Requirements for additional information.

Are Virtual Environments Supported?

Only select Virtual Environments are supported.  Please see the SOLIDWORKS Virtual Environments support page:

NOTE – Virtual environments require a certified GPU for good performance of SOLIDWORKS, eDrawings and Draftsight.

Certified GPU drivers for virtual environments can be found on the SOLIDWORKS testing page (choose “Virtual Desktop” from the Computer Vendor dropdown).

Will SOLIDWORKS 2017 files open in previous major releases (i.e. in SOLIDWORKS 2016)?

The Previous Release Interoperability functionality allows 2017 parts and assemblies to be opened in SOLIDWORKS 2016 SP5, with limited functionality. Learn more.

Can I run any third party add-in or custom program with SOLIDWORKS 2017?

• SOLIDWORKS Gold Partner companies have 30 days from the release of SOLIDWORKS 2017 to support the latest version. Check with the Gold Partner that their add-in product is compatible before upgrading. Click here for Gold Partner product details.  Select “Refine your Search with Criteria” and click the checkbox “Show Certified GOLD Partner Products Only”
• Support Partner (Non-Gold) companies support the latest release on their own schedule. Check with the Solution Partner that their add-in product is compatible with SOLIDWORKS 2017 before upgrading. Click here for Solution Partner product details
• Custom programs/add-ins should be checked to ensure they are compatible with the latest release.

What is the SOLIDWORKS 2017 Installation Manager?

Each release of SOLIDWORKS has its own Installation Manager.  It is a standalone application that can download/update/upgrade/install/modify/repair all SOLIDWORKS products.  It can be used to create and manage administrative images and standalone installs all within the same user interface.  The Installation Manager can be downloaded from the SOLIDWORKS Customer Portal for each version/service pack.

How does the SOLIDWORKS 2017 Installation Manager work?

The SOLIDWORKS 2017 Installation Manager uses Windows Installer and installs all products silently passing the required parameters to the installations.  You can specify a folder location for the installation.  This location will be used as the root folder for the installation of all products.  The advantage of using the Installation Manager is that it keeps all Products under the same folder in the Startup program list as well as creating one listing in Programs and Features in the Control Panel (listed as SOLIDWORKS 2017).

What should I do before I upgrade to SOLIDWORKS 2017?

1. Update your graphics card driver to a SOLIDWORKS certified version. SOLIDWORKS recommends the use of certified graphics cards and systems. A certified graphics card and system is tested and supported by the vendor. A listing of the latest certified drivers may be found on the graphics card testing page.

NOTE – If you are running a specific brand of workstation (i.e. Dell, HP, Lenovo), be sure to select the Computer Vendor when making your video card selection.  The standard graphics cards for these models will be available.  If your installed graphics card is not listed as an option, then set the Computer Vendor as “— Any System Vendor” to obtain the generic driver for your graphics card.

2. Check System Requirements to ensure successful installation and optimum performance, verify that your system complies with the requirements.
3. IMPORTANT – LOCAL Administrative rights are necessary on the local system to perform SOLIDWORKS installations or upgrades. System DLLs and drivers are updated which require administrative privileges. The necessary permissions must be obtained to ensure a successful installation of SOLIDWORKS. Windows Power User status is sufficient after installation as only read and execute permissions are required to use SOLIDWORKS.
4. Disable any anti-virus or anti-spyware applications that you may have running.  Some anti-virus programs have been known to interfere with the installation.  Review a list of anti-virus products that SOLIDWORKS has tested for compatibility while installing SOLIDWORKS.
5. Disable Windows User Account Controls (UAC) to avoid conflicts:
6. IMPORTANT – If you are NOT using a PDM product which retains all your previous revisions (i.e. PDM Professional), then it is recommended to save or backup active projects, including all associated parts, assemblies, and drawings, in your current version prior to upgrade. We recommend creating a backup copy of your SOLIDWORKS Data folder as well (i.e. Toolbox). Once the files are converted and saved in SOLIDWORKS 2017, these files cannot be opened and edited in a previous version of SOLIDWORKS.

NOTE – Previous Release Interoperability is available between SOLIDWORKS 2017 and 2016 SP5. Learn more

7. Backup all your custom document templates, sheet formats, etc, from previous releases before installing SOLIDWORKS 2017.
8. Review our Installation Guides from our FAQs page.

What’s the recommended installation procedure, to upgrade or to perform a new installation?

Both installation methods are supported. Updating your existing SOLIDWORKS installation can be done if users no longer require the prior version still on their system.  A new installation will leave existing installations and install separately.

Can I have more than one version of SOLIDWORKS installed on my system at the same time?

Yes, it is possible to have multiple versions of SOLIDWORKS on the same system.  During install, choose the option for a new installation and specify separate paths for the install directory and the Toolbox directory.
Review the section “Installing SOLIDWORKS with Unique Install Directories” in our Installation Guides found in our FAQs page.
To ensure complete separation between installations, follow these instructions:

Can I upgrade to the latest release if I currently have a version that is two or more years behind?

If you are skipping a version, it’s typically best to uninstall your current version and install the latest version as a new installation. For detailed instructions on how to uninstall SOLIDWORKS, click here for our Clean Uninstall Procedure.

What if I am upgrading and have Toolbox installed in a shared environment?

When the Toolbox files are located on a server location and not on the local machine, upgrading the client SOLIDWORKS installation will not update the toolbox.  The preferred procedure is to copy the toolbox files to a local machine, point the toolbox options to the local folder, then run a repair of the installation. Please review the following post for detailed instructions (applies to SOLIDWORKS 2017 as well):

Where can I find more information about installations?

Review our Installation Guides on our FAQ page:

• SOLIDWORKS Installation Guide Standalone License
• SOLIDWORKS Installation Guide Network License

For more detailed information on installations, download a SOLIDWORKS Installation and Administration Guide.

SOLIDWORKS 2017 Standalone Licensing – Locked

Do I need to obtain a new serial number to install SOLIDWORKS 2017?

Registration of SOLIDWORKS 2017 will be handled automatically through online Product Activation.  If your license is on active subscription, your serial number will automatically be upgraded to the 2017 version.

What is Product Activation?

Product activation is a secure, hassle-free process that authenticates licensed users during the installation process. For more information regarding product activation please refer to the SOLIDWORKS Activation FAQ.

I do not have internet or e-mail access on my SOLIDWORKS workstation, how will I activate my product?

Activation requires that you have internet or email access. After activation, you do not need to be online to use the products.

If you do not have internet access on the computer where SOLIDWORKS is installed, you can choose the Manual method to save an activation file, transfer to another computer with internet access (i.e. via USB key) then email the file to activation@solidworks.com.  Instructions will be provided during the activation process.

The server that receives the activation email will automatically process it and email back an authorization file within minutes.  Upon receipt of this activation file, simply move it back to your SOLIDWORKS workstation and run through the Manual Activation process again and read the file.  If you have any activation problems, please contact Javelin’s Support Help Desk.

SOLIDWORKS 2017 SolidNetWork Licensing (SNL) – FLOATING

How is network (floating) licensing handled in SOLIDWORKS 2017?

SOLIDWORKS 2017 continues to use the same SolidNetWork License Manager to provide network licenses for all SOLIDWORKS products.  PDM Standard and PDM Professional licenses use the same SolidNetWork License Manager in 2017.

1. Network licenses can include SOLIDWORKS, Simulation, Composer, Electrical, Visualize and PDM products
2. Network licenses of SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2017 now utilizes the SolidNetWork License Manager
3. Allows for license borrowing when disconnected from the network

What Operating Systems are supported for the SolidNetWork License Manager?

Please review the section “SOLIDWORKS Network License Server” on the SOLIDWORKS System Requirements page.

Can SOLIDWORKS, Simulation, Composer, Electrical, Plastics, Visualize and PDM products run from one license manager tool?

Yes, users can manage all SOLIDWORKS product licenses using one utility.  During installation, you can enter multiple serial numbers separated by commas.  You will need to install the License Manager on a server, accessible by all clients.  Please review the “SOLIDWORKS Installation Guide Network License” on our FAQ page.

Starting with SOLIDWORKS 2017, network licenses of SOLIDWORKS Visualize now utilize the License Manager.

Why are the clients not able to obtain a SOLIDWORKS license from the server?

There are most likely firewalls preventing the communication between the client and server machines.  Please review our troubleshooting article.

Do clients have access to the SolidNetWork License Manager to view licenses currently in use?

Yes, to access the SOLIDWORKS SolidNetWork License Manager on a client machine, go to Start > SOLIDWORKS 2017 Tools > SolidNetWork License Manager Client 2017.

Can the 2017 License Manager (SNL) support prior versions of SOLIDWORKS?

The SOLIDWORKS 2017 License Manager will support earlier versions of the software back through SOLIDWORKS 2008.

Why do I see extra SOLIDWORKS Standard licenses on the “License Usage” tab in the SolidNetWork License Manager?

A SOLIDWORKS Standard license is always required to be checked out when opening SOLIDWORKS.  When an add-in that requires a higher license is enabled, the Professional or Premium license is checked out, but it keeps a Standard license checked out at the same time.

What is the “License Order” tab in the SolidNetWork License Manager?

The License Order tab allows you to change the order of product taken from the server if multiple levels of SOLIDWORKS Simulation products are available on the network (e.g. SOLIDWORKS Premium, SOLIDWORKS Simulation, SOLIDWORKS Simulation Professional, SOLIDWORKS Simulation Premium).  If you need access to SOLIDWORKS Simulation Professional level studies and use SOLIDWORKS Premium, then SOLIDWORKS Simulation Professional must be listed above SOLIDWORKS Premium.  Otherwise only the SOLIDWORKS Premium license will be used and just give access to Static studies. Get more information.

What is the “License Borrowing” tab in the SolidNetWork License Manager?

If you will be away from your network connection due to travel or working from home, you can borrow a license for a specified period.  This keep a SOLIDWORKS license on the computer and allow you to launch the program without being connected to your work network.
Borrowing a Professional or Premium license automatically borrows the pre-requisite SOLIDWORKS Standard license.

Can I upgrade the 2017 SolidNetWork License Manager?

You can upgrade an existing SolidNetWork License Manager to a new version using SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager, rather than removing the previous version and then installing the new one.

Can I use a remote desktop application to install and activate the License Manager on a server?

Avoid using a remote desktop application as this can cause a change to the Computer ID of the server during activation. This may cause a mismatch of the hardware ID at the SOLIDWORKS Activation Centre.  An Activation Exceeded Count error may occur and the activation will fail. Please contact your SOLIDWORKS Technical Support Help Desk if this has occurred.  Get more information.

Where can I find more information about SolidNetWork License installations?

Review our “SOLIDWORKS Installation Guide Network License” on our FAQ page

Standalone License:

To activate a standalone license:

1. Start SOLIDWORKS and add-on required (i.e. Simulation).
2. If you have not yet activated your license, the Product Activation dialog box appears.
3. Choose the Automatic (recommended) or Manual option.
4. Supply your email address.
5. Obtain the activation online or by email
   Automatic – Submit the request automatically over the internet (requires internet connection)
   Manual – Click Save to create a file, and then send the file to activation@solidworks.com from another computer that has internet access. When you receive the response file, typically within minutes of the initial submission, copy to the client machine and run the activation procedure again and click Open to load the response file.
6. The Activation/Reactivate Succeeded dialog box displays the products that have been activated.

To transfer a standalone license:

1. Open SOLIDWORKS on the activated computer
2. Go to Help > Deactivate Licenses
3. Choose the license to transfer (or select all)
4. Choose the Automatic or Manual option and follow the steps (similar to the  activation procedure)
5. Once the transfer is successful, install and activate on the new computer

Network Licensing:

To activate a network license:

1. Install the SolidNetWork License Manager on a server.  Through the Installation Manager, choose Server Products > Install SolidNetwork License Manager.  During the installation of the License Manager, you will be prompted to enter a SOLIDWORKS Network Serial Number.  This is the same serial number used on all client machines as well.  You can enter more than one serial number by adding commas (,) between licenses.
2. You can update an existing SolidNetWork License Manager to a new version using SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager, rather than removing the previous version and then installing the new one.
3. After the installation is finished launch the SolidNetWork License Manager from the Start Menu in the SOLIDWORKS Tools folder.
4. Choose Yes when prompted “Would you like to activate now?”
5. Choose the Automatic (recommended) or Manual option.
6. Supply your email address.
7. Obtain the activation online or by email
   Automatic – Submit the request automatically over the internet (requires internet connection)
   Manual – Click Save to create a file, and then send the file to activation@solidworks.com from another computer that has internet access. When you receive the response file, typically within minutes of the initial submission, copy to the client machine and run the activation procedure again and click Open to load the response file.
8. The Activation/Reactivate Succeeded dialog box displays the products that have been activated.

To transfer a network license from a server:

1. Open the SolidNetWork License Manager on the server
2. On the ‘Server Administration’ tab, click Modify
3. Choose to Transfer/Deactivate license
4. Choose the Automatic or Manual method and follow the steps (similar to the activation procedure)
5. Install and activate the License Manager on a new server
6. Point all client machines to the new server by opening the License Manager Client on each machine and change the server name in the Server List tab

For more information, please review our “SOLIDWORKS Installation Guide Network License” on our FAQ page.

The post SOLIDWORKS 2017 Update Frequently Asked Questions & Answers appeared first on SOLIDWORKS Tech Tips, Videos & Tutorials from Javelin.

When installing, or modifying the installation of the SOLIDWORKS SolidNetWork License Manager, you may encounter the following error: Failed to get the string for the Localized Property : STR_SWINST_ACTIVE_SW.

SOLIDWORKS Error message

This error can occur, if SOLIDWORKS is open on the same system where the installation is taking place. Close SOLIDWORKS and then retry the installation. This should allow you to continue with the install error free.

The post SOLIDWORKS NetWork License Failed to get string for the Localized Property appeared first on SOLIDWORKS Tech Tips, Videos & Tutorials from Javelin.

So you’ve made (or are considering) the decision to use a SOLIDWORKS Network License.

There are many great reasons to switch to a network license setup:

• Perhaps you have engineers/designers/drafters who do not use SOLIDWORKS 100% of the time.
• Maybe they spend some time building their exciting products,
• Or perhaps they aren’t so fortunate and find themselves sometimes having to use… another CAD package (shudder).

Whatever the reason, it might be that your company has 10 SOLIDWORKS users, but only 5 are ever using SOLIDWORKS at the same time. One option would be to have separate CAD workstations where users leave their cubicle (gasp) and work from a different computer. Another, simpler way is to make use of Network Licensing. With a network license, you can easily switch which computers are using SOLIDWORKS.

Step 1: Find a License Server

The system requirements for a License Server aren’t particularly strict. It just needs to have a certified O/S (see this page, and scroll down to SOLIDWORKS Network License Server). Nothing nearly as strict as the requirements to run SOLIDWORKS. Often times, people will ask whether or not you can install the SolidNetWork License Manager (or SNL Manager) on the same computer as SOLIDWORKS (so it could function as both a server and a client machine). The answer is yes, but do keep in mind that if that user’s computer turns off (either through crashing, rebooting, or being turned off while the user goes on a 2-week holiday), then the license server is down and no one will be able to use SOLIDWORKS.

Step 2: Check your Firewall settings

If you do not have internal firewalls, then this step is very easy. If there is a firewall between your server and the client machines, then you will need to open TCP/IP ports 25734 and 25735 for both inbound and outbound connections

Step 3: Install SolidNetWork License Manager

You do this by running Setup.exe as an Administrator. Select Server Products from the list then check the box for Install SolidNetWork License Manager.

SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager

Step 4: Activate the License Manager. You can do this by launching the SolidNetWork License Manager utility on the server. Then under the Server Administration tab, click the Modify button and choose the Activate/Reactivate. See screenshot below:

Activate SOLIDWORKS Network License

If you are on a computer that is doubling as a client machine, you may encounter a situation where your SolidNetWork License manager does not have a Server Administration tab. If that is the case, please refer to this blog article.

Step 5: Change the client workstations to use the SOLIDWORKS network license

On each of the client workstations, modify the installation and change the serial number. you will be prompted to identify the server. Simply type 25734@server (replace server with the name of your license server).

Step 6: Test the computer you just changed by launching SOLIDWORKS

If it does not launch, contact your VAR for assistance. If it does launch, then you are good to repeat the procedure on the other client workstations.

If you’d like to make the switch to network licenses, please contact your SOLIDWORKS sales rep for more information.

The post Switching from Standalone SOLIDWORKS Licenses to a SOLIDWORKS Network License appeared first on SOLIDWORKS Tech Tips, Videos & Tutorials from Javelin.

Now that SOLIDWORKS PDM (both Professional and Standard) is using the SolidNetwork License Manager for distributing licenses to clients, reserving SOLIDWORKS PDM licenses for specific users or groups of users is now possible.  This is done through the SolidNetWork License (SNL) Manager Options File.

In other posts we’ve discussed how the Options File can be used to change the default timeout for PDM licenses, the default timeout for SOLIDWORKS licenses, how to block borrowing of SOLIDWORKS licenses and how to reserve just SOLIDWORKS licenses, now let’s look at reserving SOLIDWORKS PDM licenses for either PDM Professional or PDM Standard users.

How to create a Custom Options File

Step 1:  Launch the SOLIDWORKS SolidNetWork License Manager program and click “Modify…” on the Server Administration tab.

SolidNetWork License Manager – Modify

Step 2:  Select the option to “Activate/Reactivate a software license” and then click “Next >”.

Activate/Reactivate a License

Step 3:  On the next screen check the box beside “Options File” and click “Edit”.

Edit Options File

Step 4:  If you do not have an Options File created yet you will be presented with the option to create a new one in the default path.

Create Options File

Step 5:  Now we write our Options File.  First the groups will need to be defined.  These are not the groups already setup in SOLIDWORKS PDM.  The SNL Manager has no idea that those groups exist, so the groups for the purpose of reserving licenses MUST be explicitly defined in the Options File.

The correct syntax will be to have the Option Keyword, in this case GROUP, followed by the group name, then each user name that is a member of the group, each separated by a space.  This is the PDM username NOT the Window username, which would be the case if you have set up groups to reserve SOLIDWORKS licenses.  So if you have already defined groups of users in the Options File to reserve SOLIDWORKS licenses, you may need to create entirely new groups, with different usernames to reserve the PDM licenses.  So as an example, we can define two groups for whom we want to ensure there will always be a license available, the senior designers and the PDM administrators:

GROUP senior_design scott chris joe
GROUP administrators justin andrew

This is then followed by the actual reserve option definition.  The correct syntax will be to have the Option Keyword, in this case RESERVE, followed by the number of licenses to reserve, followed by GROUP and then the name of the group, each separated by a space.  So if we need to reserve three SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional CAD Editor licenses for the three senior designers, but just one PDM Professional Contributor license to be shared between the two administrators (who are not using SOLIDWORKS), we will add:

RESERVE 3 swepdm_cadeditorandweb GROUP senior_design
RESERVE 1 swepdm_contributorandweb GROUP administrators

Reserving SOLIDWORKS PDM Licenses

The Feature Names of the SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional products are:

The Feature Names of the SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard products are:

Step 6:  Once the Options File text is finished, save the sw_d.opt file and close it.

Save SolidNetwork License Manager Options File

Step 7:  Ensure that all server information is correct and click Next to proceed to the next screen.

Check Server Information

Step 8:  Click “Select All” to make sure all your SOLIDWORKS products are selected for reactivation, enter your contact email and click “Next>” to complete the reactivation process.

Activate License

Activation/Reactivation Succeeded

The post Reserving SOLIDWORKS PDM Licenses appeared first on SOLIDWORKS Tech Tips, Videos & Tutorials from Javelin.

In the SOLIDWORKS License Manager, each SOLIDWORKS Professional or Premium network license includes two entries:

• SOLIDWORKS Professional license consists of SOLIDWORKS Standard and SOLIDWORKS Professional.
• SOLIDWORKS Premium license consists of SOLIDWORKS Standard and SOLIDWORKS Premium.

SOLIDWORKS Standard license must be available for SOLIDWORKS to start up.  It is checked out when SOLIDWORKS is started.

SOLIDWORKS SolidNetWork License Manager

SOLIDWORKS Professional and Premium licenses in the License Manager represent Professional and Premium add-ins. When any of these add-ins are enabled, in addition to SOLIDWORKS Standard, a Professional or Premium license is checked out if available.  If selected add-ins are available in both Professional and Premium license types and both types are available, SOLIDWORKS Professional license, as a lower-level type compared to Premium, is checked out.

If none of the Professional or Premium add-ins are enabled in SOLIDWORKS, only SOLIDWORKS Standard license remains checked out.  SOLIDWORKS Professional or Premium licenses remain available, but they are not sufficient to start SOLIDWORKS.

The post License Types in the SOLIDWORKS License Manager appeared first on SOLIDWORKS Tech Tips, Videos & Tutorials from Javelin.

SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard and Professional versions use a License Manager to control access to their respective licenses.

With SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional, installations are purchased separately. The number of installations purchased, dictates how many users can access PDM at any one time. With SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard, each license of SOLIDWORKS Professional or Premium, ships with one license of SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard.

The SolidNetWork License Manager, is installed using the same Installation Manager for SOLIDWORKS. The option to install the SolidNetWork License Manager, is listed under Server Products, on the Welcome screen:

SolidNetWork License Manager

After pressing Next, you will be prompted to enter your SOLIDWORKS PDM serial number[s]. Multiple serial numbers can be entered, by placing a comma between the serial numbers.

Enter your serial numbers

• If you are installing SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional, you will likely only have one serial number for PDM.
• With SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard you will also have only one serial number, even if you have a network license of SOLIDWORKS Professional or Premium.
• If you have standalone licenses of SOLIDWORKS Professional or Premium, you may need to enter serial numbers for each seat of SOLIDWORKS.

Please note: Your SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard or Professional serial number, is not the same, as your SOLIDWORKS serial number.

One further note: for SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard installations, you can either install a separate License Manager for each standalone installation of SOLIDWORKS; or you can install the License Manager on one computer/server that all client can access.

If you already use the SolidNetWork License Manager. for SOLIDWORKS or one of its add-ins (e.g. SOLIDWORKS Simulation), you can modify that installation and add the SOLIDWORKS PDM serial numbers.

Once the installation is complete, you next need to specify the location of the SolidNetWork License Manager. You will normally be prompted to do this when the installation finishes; but you can also do this from the License node of the SOLIDWORKS PDM Administration, shown below, or by launching the SolidNetWork License Manager application from Windows.

Adding License Server

The format for entering the server, into the License Manager, is port number@server name. The default port number is 25734, but you can specify any port that is open.

Whichever port you use, should not be blocked on client or the License server side. This may require adding exceptions to security software, such as firewalls. If the port is blocked the client will not be able to retrieve a license. A Telnet test, to that port will tell you whether that port is blocked. There is a blog article on the Javelin website, which deals with connection issues, relating to the License Manager.

Now that the SolidNetWork License Manager has been installed, you can proceed with the installation of SOLIDWORKS PDM Server and Client.

The post Installing and Setting Up the SOLIDWORKS PDM License Manager appeared first on SOLIDWORKS Tech Tips, Videos & Tutorials from Javelin.

Most of large companies have their SOLIDWORKS licenses on a network. So, when it comes to upgrading SOLIDWORKS it is necessary to first upgrade the SolidNetwork License Manager (SNL) on the server machine before upgrading SOLIDWORKS on client machines.

Here are few things you must check before you upgrade to a newer version of SOLIDWORKS.

You have to make sure that your version of SNL Manager on the server you would like to install should be same as the latest version of SOLIDWORKS you want to run on your client machines.

So if you want to run SOLIDWORKS 2014, 2015, and 2017 on the client machines, then you have to install SNL Manager 2017 on your server.

Follow the steps below to upgrade SOLIDWORKS SNL Manager:

1. Download/Locate installation Media.

Where do I download SolidNetwork (SNL) Manager?

2. Ensure no licenses are borrowed by any user.

Go to Start Menu > Launch SolidNetwork License Manager > License Borrowing Tab > check Borrowed Licenses. If you notice any of the licenses are borrowed request that user to return the license. Aldo make sure SOLIDWORKS is closed on all the client and server machines during this process.

Return any of the license if borrowed

3. Transfer the License.

Usually it is a good idea to transfer the license before you upgrade SNL manager. To do so, Launch SNL manager on server machine > Server Administration > Modify >Transfer license. Make sure you write down your serial number as this will be needed in further steps.

Transfer the license

4. Install new version of SNL manager

As you have already downloaded the file set for new version, extract the files. Now right click on setup.exe and click run as administrator. This will launch the SOLIDWORKS installation manager. On the welcome page , Select Server products and then select Upgrade SolidNetwork License Manager on this computer. As you can see in the screenshot I already have 2017 SNL manager installed on my machine , so the upgrade option is faded out and not available.

SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager- Server products

Once you click next, on serial Number page if prompted, enter your SolidNetwork License serial number(s). Use a comma between serial numbers if you are using multiple serial numbers. Click Next and then select Install.

5. Activate/Reactivate the License on new SNL manager

Once the installation is finished we have to reactivate the license. To do so, Start Menu > Launch SolidNetwork License Manager > Server Administration Tab > Modify > Select Activate/Reactivate the license > click Next > Finish the process.

Make sure you click select all option on the page where it shows the list of all serial numbers you have added.

Activate/Reactivate the license

Now, you can upgrade SOLIDWORKS on client machines. Since, the server machine is same , the name of server machine will already be added on Client machines. Check to see if Client machine is communicating to server machine and can obtain the license.

If you receive any errors please look at SolidNetWork License (SNL) Manager Troubleshooting Blog Article.

The post How do I upgrade the SOLIDWORKS SolidNetwork License Manager? appeared first on SOLIDWORKS Tech Tips, Videos & Tutorials from Javelin.

If you have an existing SOLIDWORKS Network License and you purchase additional network licenses of SOLIDWORKS, or other network licenses of SOLIDWORKS products, such as Simulation, PDM, Inspection, Visualize, MBD, Composer … etc, then those licenses will simply be added to your existing SOLIDWORKS serial number (unless you have specifically requested that they not be).

Once SOLIDWORKS has processed the order and you have heard back that new licenses are ready to use, you will need to re-activate SolidNetWork License Manager so that users can make use of the new licenses.

Reactivating the SolidNetWork License Manager

STEP 1:  On the license server, launch the SolidNetWork License Manager Server and click Modify.

Modify License

STEP 2:  Select the option to “Activate/Reactivate your product license(s)” and click “Next>”.

Activate/Reactivate your product license(s)

STEP 3:  Don’t make any changes on the “Server Information” screen.

Server Information

STEP 4:  On the “Activate Your SOLIDWORKS Product” screen, either click “Select All” so that all serial numbers are highlighted, or hold down “Ctrl” and select each serial number that has had additional licenses added to it.  Click Next to activate automatically over the internet, or if you do not have an internet connection on the server, you can activate Manually.

Activate Your SOLIDWORKS Product

Once the activation completes, the new additional licences should  be listed under the “Currently activated products” screen.

Currently activated SOLIDWORKS products

NOTE: If you notice that some licenses are missing, contact your SOLIDWORKS Value Added Reseller.

The post Re-activating the SolidNetwork License Manager after purchasing additional licenses appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

If you are using a network license for any SOLIDWORKS product (e.g. SOLIDWORKS CAD, SOLIDWORKS Visualize, SOLIDWORKS Composer etc.), once you close the program [or sign out of SOLIDWORKS PDM], then the license that was in use on your system should immediately be returned to the SNL Server so that another user can access that license.

SOLIDWORKS Network License not returned to the Server likely indicates there is interference with the vendor daemon communication.

By default the SNL manager uses a dynamic vendor daemon port, so some security software or firewall may be causing the communication back to the license manager to fail.  To address this, you will need to change the vendor daemon to a static port number and add exceptions for that port number.

Making the following adjustments will ensure that licenses are being returned immediately and maximize the availability of your SOLIDWORKS Network product licenses.

How to resolve the vendor daemon communication issue

STEP 1:  On the new server, launch the SolidNetWork License Manager Server program and on the “Server Administration” tab, click “Modify…”  Within the “SOLIDWORKS Product Activation” window, select “Activate/Reactivate a software license” and click “Next”.

Activate/reactivate a software license

STEP 2:  Make sure that the option “A firewall is in use on this server” is checked and the “Vendor Daemon Port Number” is set to the default 25735, or if that port is in use by another software, select another open port and enter it into the text box.  If these settings are already in place, click “Cancel” and process to Step 4, otherwise click “Next”.

A firewall is in use on this server

STEP 3:  On the final activation screen, click “Select All” to ensure all serial numbers are selected for the activation process.  Select “Automatically over the Internet” if the server has an internet connection.  If not, select the “Manually via e-mail” option and follow these steps to activate manually.  Click “Next>” to complete the activation.

Final activation screen

STEP 4:  On the server, add TCP/IP port 25735 to the firewall exception list for inbound and outbound connections.  If you have any other security software or network appliances that might be blocking or checking traffic on this port, also add exceptions to those.

On the server, add TCP/IP port 25735 to the firewall exception list

Once these exceptions are in place, the licenses should return to the SolidNetWork License Manager license pool immediately once the programs are exited.

The post Why is my SOLIDWORKS Network License not being returned to the SNL Server? appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

Users of SOLIDWORKS network license that includes SOLIDWORKS CAM Professional may find that despite SOLIDWORKS CAM Professional license being available in the License Manager, SOLIDWORKS CAM starts as the Standard edition.  Users of Simulation Professional and Premium licenses may have similar issues.  When two levels of the same product are present in the same SOLIDWORKS network license, users need to set their preference in the License Order tab of the SolidNetWork License Manager Client.

Move up SOLIDWORKS CAM Professional in the License Order tab

When CAM Professional is placed above CAM Standard in the license order, CAM Professional license will be requested first.  Only if CAM Professional is unavailable, a CAM Standard license will be used, if it is available.

The post SOLIDWORKS CAM Professional launches as the Standard version? appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional license are available in two basic formats, Processor Site Licenses (PSL), and individual Client Access Licenses (CAL).

Client Access Licenses are available as a single CAD Editor, single Contributor license or in 5 packs of Viewer licenses.  The client installation must match the CAL license version that is available on the SolidNetWork License Manager.  So for instance if you accidentally set up a client to use a Contributor license but you only have CAD Editor CALs, the user will be presented with an error when trying to log into the vault because that license type is not available.  To resolve this, the license type on the client would need to be modified.

SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional license

If you purchased a SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional PSLs however, it can provide a license to any client installation of SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional, whether that installation is set to use CAD Editor, Contributor or Viewer license types.

You can also use a combination of PSLs and individual CALs on a single SolidNetWork License Manager (either merged onto a single PDM Serial Number or using multiple serial numbers).

When a combination of PSLs and individual CALs are being served by a single SolidNetWork License Manager, by default the client will try to acquire the individual license first, and then if that is not available, it will look for an available PSL.

Processing a License Request

So, for instance, if a client is set to use SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional CAD Editor and the user tries to log into the vault the following steps will occur:

1. First, it will check if a CAD Editor license is available on the SolidNetWork License Manager.  If there is a SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional CAD Editor license available, it will take that license for the user.
2. If no CAD Editor license is available, it will then look for a SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional Processor License (PSL) and take one if available.
3. If neither license types are available it will report to the user that no licenses are available and they cannot log into the vault.

Changing the License Order

If you wish to change the default license order, this is very easy to do using the SOLIDWORKS SolidNetWork License Manager Client on the user’s computer.

Simply go to the “License Order” tab and select the SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional Processor License and click “Move Up” to move the PSL above the SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional CAD Editor license so that it will take the PSL first.

SOLIDWORKS SolidNetWork License Manager license order

The post How SOLIDWORKS PDM Processor Site Licenses & Client Access Licenses work together appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

Recently I was helping a customer on tech support to download and install SOLIDWORKS on a new machine but when we tried to launch SOLIDWORKS it showed a “Could not initiate the transaction” error message:

“Could not initiate the transaction (66, iActTransactionStartFlxActivateApp() /flxActAppActivationReqCreate()errored [8,41013,00)”

Once we read the complete error message it tells us that the issue is with the activation of the license but not with SOLIDWORKS itself. This message occurs if the FLEXnet Licensing Service is not running on the machine.

To check if FLEXnet Licensing Service is running or has been disabled follow these steps:

• Start > Control Panel > Administrative Tools > Services
• This launches the Services Window
• Locate FLEXnet Licensing Service and make sure it is set to Started
• If not right-click the service and choose Start.
• Also Right-click on FLEXnet Licensing Service > Properties > Set Start-up Type to Automatic.

FLEXnet Licensing Service properties

Now try launching SOLIDWORKS and activate the license. The “Could not initiate the transaction” message should not appear

Learn more about SOLIDWORKS

Attend a SOLIDWORKS Essentials training course either in a Canadian classroom near you or live online. For more information about composer software and training solutions call 1-877-219-6757.

The post “Could not initiate the transaction…” error at SOLIDWORKS start-up? appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

The SolidNetWork License Manager allows you to reserve licenses for a particular set of users.  You need to create an Options file for the License Manager.  This article provides more information on how it’s created:

How to Reserve Licenses on SolidNetWork License Manager for Users or Groups

However when you set up the groups and usernames in the file, the usernames are case-sensitive.  The usernames in the Options file must match what is shown in the License Manager itself when a user checks out a license.

For example 'USER', 'User' and 'user' will be seen as different users.

This may or may not match the Windows username.  For example here I’ve changed my Windows username to ‘Support’.  However when I checkout a Simulation license, the License Manager shows the user as ‘support’.  The source is the capitalization style that the user enters when they first logged on to a computer.  Without a ‘roaming’ Windows profile account, a change to the capitalization of a username would require a re-creation of the user profile to have it match in the License Manager.

Windows User Account Name

SolidNetWork License Manager User Name

If we setup the Options file with the username ‘Support’, it won’t be found as the License Manager considers the user as ‘support’.  Here I’ve reserved all 25 SOLIDWORKS Premium licenses to the user ‘Support’.  When we try to enable the Simulation add-in, it fails to obtain a license as there are no licenses left for username ‘support’.

SolidNetWork License Manager Options File

Unable to Obtain SOLIDWORKS Network License

There is a FlexLM option that allows you to make usernames case-insensitive to avoid this situation.  At the top of the Options file, add the line GROUPCASEINSENSITIVE ON.  Now it will see the user ‘Support’ to be the same as ‘support’.

SolidNetWork License Manager Options File – CaseInsensitive

The post SOLIDWORKS SolidNetwork License Manager Options File Case Insensitive Setting appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

If you have purchased additional SOLIDWORKS licenses to float on your existing network and received a notice from our office indicating they’ve been processed, then you have ONE CRUCIAL STEP left to perform before your users will be able to utilize these new licenses – REACTIVATE YOUR LICENSE MANAGER. While this only takes a couple of minutes to do, it is readily forgotten about.

Step 1: Load up the SolidNetWork Licence Manager on the Server machine that is hosting your licences

Step 2: From the ‘Server Administration’ tab, select ‘Modify’

Modify License

Step 3: Choose the option to ‘Activate/Reactivate your product license’

Activate/Reactivate your product license

Step 4: Select ‘Next’ to maintain the same firewall settings as you had before. For more information on this setting click here

Firewall settings

Step 5: Click ‘Select All’ to highlight all of your SOLIDWORKS network serial numbers, if the serial number for the product you wish to add is not listed then click here to learn how to add additional keys to your network.

All serial numbers

Step 6: After connecting to the SOLIDWORKS server, it should now have refreshed the licence count to include your new purchase.

Refreshed license count

The post Just purchased NEW SOLIDWORKS licenses? Don’t forget to Reactivate your License Manager appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

A SOLIDWORKS network license requires a network connection between the server and client machines.  The server runs the SolidNetwork License Manager service and client machines must verify a connection and available licenses from the server before SOLIDWORKS will open.  Communication errors are commonly found on first setting up a network license or if there are changes to the network.

Here are a few possible error messages that may be seen on a client machine when trying to open SOLIDWORKS.

Server

The SolidNetwork License Manager needs to be installed, activated and started on the server.  The major version needs to be the same or newer than SOLIDWORKS running on the client machines.  It is backwards compatible so you should always upgrade the License Manager before SOLIDWORKS.  For example you can use a 2019 License Manager while running SOLIDWORKS 2018.

After any upgrade to the License Manager, you must reactivate to obtain the latest license version.
https://www.javelin-tech.com/blog/2012/01/update-solidworks-solidnetwork-license-server/

Service Started

Verify that the SolidNetwork License Manager service is running.  Open the License Manager and click ‘Start’ if applicable.  You can also check Windows Services to verify the service has been started and set to Automatic startup.

SOLIDWORKS SolidNetwork License Manager Start

SOLIDWORKS SolidNetwork License Manager Service

Firewall Settings

The most common source of communication errors are due to firewalls blocking the required ports.  If you do have firewalls setup on your network, you will need to select the option that ‘A firewall is in use on this server‘ while activating.  This switches the License Manager to use a static vendor daemon port in order to specify the specific port in the firewall.  By default the License Manager uses TCP ports 25734 and 25735.  These can be changed if required.

To access these options again, you can go through the same reactivation process.

SOLIDWORKS Network License Manager Ports

Both ports 25734 and 25735 must be opened through the firewall for both Inbound and Outbound communication.  For general Windows firewalls, the follow process can be taken.

1. Go to Windows Control Panel > Windows Firewall
2. Select Advanced settings in the left panel
3. Select Inbound Rules in the left pane and choose New Rule
4. Choose Port and specify TCP ports 25734 and 25735
5. This needs to be set to Allow the connection
6. Choose the appropriate profiles of Domain, Private, Public (Public is most likely not desired)
7. Give a descriptive name for the rule such as “SolidNetwork License Manager Ports” and Finish
8. Select Outbound Rules in the left pane and choose New Rule
9. Follow the same steps 4-7 to allow outbound connection for ports 25734 and 25735

Windows Firewall Rules

Though not typically required with the default Windows Firewall, you may need to apply a rule to allow connection for programs lmgrd.exe and sw_d.exe.  By default these programs are located under C:\Program Files (x86)\SolidWorks SolidNetWork License Manager.

Client

As mentioned, client machines must be able to communicate with the server before a SOLIDWORKS license can be obtained.  The firewall ports will need to opened in the same manner as the server.

Firewall Settings

1. Go to Windows Control Panel > Windows Firewall
2. Select Advanced settings in the left panel
3. Select Inbound Rules in the left pane and choose New Rule
4. Choose Port and specify TCP ports 25734 and 25735
5. This needs to be set to Allow the connection
6. Choose the appropriate profiles of Domain, Private, Public (Public is most likely not desired)
7. Give a descriptive name for the rule such as “SolidNetwork License Manager Ports” and Finish
8. Select Outbound Rules in the left pane and choose New Rule
9. Follow the same steps 4-7 to allow outbound connection for ports 25734 and 25735

Server Location

Verify the SolidNetwork License Manager Client application is pointing to the correct server.  This application is found under Start > SOLIDWORKS Tools > SolidNetwork License Manager Client.  On the Server List tab, add the appropriate port and server name.  Ensure only one server is listed unless you have multiple servers hosting separate licenses.

NOTE: When you add a new server name to the list, click OK and go back into the License Manager to verify the new server name is still listed.  If it doesn’t stick, you may need to run the License Manager Client application as an administrator.  Right-click on the application in the Start menu on click Run as Administrator

SOLIDWORKS SolidNetwork License Manager Client

You can also test entering the server IP address instead of the server name to see if there is an issue with name resolution.

If you still receive errors on opening SOLIDWORKS, there are several tests you can perform to verify the connection is valid.

Ping Test

The Ping test verifies that you have access to the server over the network.  This will also give you an indication of the speed of connection from the response time (latency).  If the test fails, you will need to check your network connection on both machines.

1. Open the Windows Command Prompt (click Start and type CMD)
2. Type in ping server_name (where “server_name” is the name of your server or the IP address)
3. It should give a response that 4 packets were sent and 4 were received with 0% loss to verify you have a connection

Windows Ping Test

The speed in milliseconds will be given to determine the latency.  This should be a low as possible.  If it shows more than 100ms, this indicates a very slow connection and may fail to obtain a license due to a default timeout.  Have your IT troubleshoot the slow performance of the network.

Telnet Test

The Telnet test allows you to verify that ports 25734 and 25735 have been opened properly.  Follow the steps outlined in our article How To Perform a Telnet Test

Connectivity Tool

Although typically used to troubleshoot SOLIDWORKS PDM connections, the Connectivity Test Tool can be used to test for the SNL Server connection only.  To find out where the tool can be downloaded, read our blog article SOLIDWORKS PDM Connectivity Test Tool

SOLIDWORKS Connectivity Test Tool

The post SOLIDWORKS SolidNetWork License Manager Troubleshooting (SNL) appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

When it comes time to migrate to new servers, moving the SolidNetwork License Manager Server for your SOLIDWORKS software can be a daunting to idea.  Dozens or even hundreds of users will be affected by the move.

However, following these steps will help to ensure that there will be the least amount of disruption to the users, and the move can be done in as few steps as possible:

-ON THE NEW SERVER-

STEP 1:  If a firewall is in place on the server, add TCP/IP ports 25734 and 25735 to the firewall exception list for inbound and outbound connections.

Windows Firewall

STEP 2:  Using the SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager, available either from the installation DVD or through the Downloads and Updates section of the SolidWorks Customer Portal, click the “Server products” radio button and check to install the SolidNetWork License Manager software.

*** DO NOT ACTIVATE THE NEW LICENSE MANAGER YET ***

 -ON THE USER WORKSTATIONS-

STEP 3:  Open the SolidNetWork License Manager Client 20XX program and go to the “Server List” tab. Click “Add…” and enter the new server name and port number using the format: 25734@hostname.

The new server is not reachable yet because we haven’t activated the license and service is not running.  Click “Yes” on the message indicating that the license server is not reachable, this will add the new server to the list.

Both the old and the new license server computers should now show in the list.  Repeat this procedure on all workstations.

OPTIONAL:  If there are many workstations that need to be updated, the following two registries can be exported from the system updated in Step 3 and then imported on all other systems:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINIE\Software\FLEXlm License Manager

and

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Wow6432Node\FlexLM License Manager

Once the workstations have ALL been updated so that they are showing both the old server and the new server on the Server List tab, then you are ready to perform the transfer.  The next two steps should take no longer than 5-10 minutes to complete.  During this time if there are users currently working in SOLIDWORKS, they will continue to be able to work without any interruption for approximately 1 hour, at which time the would receive a warning that the license manager is down, after which they would have a 20 minute grace period during which they can save their work.

This should provide plenty of time for the new server to be activated, however as unforeseen circumstances can develop it is wise to (1) perform the process at a time of relative inactivity and (2) have the number of your Value Added Reseller’s technical support desk hand in case you need their assistance with the transfer.

After Step 4 is performed, any users who launch SOLIDWORKS will receive a message that no license is available until Step 7 is completed.

-ON THE OLD SERVER-

STEP 4:  On the server that will no longer be used for SOLIDWORKS licensing, open the SolidNetWork License Manager Server 20XX program, and on the “Server Administration” tab, click “Modify…”.  In the “SolidWorks Product Activation” window that opens, select “Move your product license(s) to a new/upgraded computer” and click “Next >”.  Once the process is complete the old server is disabled and you can now activate the new server.

-ON THE NEW SERVER-

STEP 5:  On the new server, launch the SolidNetWork License Manager Server 20XX program and on the “Server Administration” tab, click “Modify…”  Within the “SOLIDWORKS Product Activation” window, select “Activate/Reactivate your product license(s)”.

STEP 6:  On the “SolidNetWork License Server Information” screen, make sure that the option “A firewall is in use on this server” is checked if there is a firewall in place. If not, just click “Next >“.

STEP 7:  On the “Activate/Deactivate Your SOLIDWORKS Product” screen, make sure to click “Select All” so that all licenses will be updated.  Select “Automatically over the Internet” if the server has an internet connection.  If not, select the “Manually via e-mail” option and follow these steps to activate manually. Then once all license highlighted, click “Next >“.

Once the activation has completed, click “Finish” to complete the process and close the SOLIDWORKS Product Activation window.

 -ON THE USER WORKSTATIONS-

STEP 8:  Open the SolidNetWork License Manager Client 20XX program and go to the “Server List” tab. Select the old server and click “Remove…”, then “Yes” when prompted.  Repeat this process on each workstation.

OPTIONAL:  Again, if there are many workstations that need to be updated, the following registry keys can be exported from the system updated in Step 6, then those keys can be imported on all other systems so that only the new server will be in the list:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINIE\Software\FLEXlm License Manager

and

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Wow6432Node\FlexLM License Manager

The post Moving The SOLIDWORKS SolidNetWork License (SNL) Manager appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

The SOLIDWORKS SolidNetWork License (SNL) Manager can distribute licenses to client installations that are directly connected to it through a network, but it can also allow client installations to borrow a license for a period of time and disconnect from the network.

SOLIDWORKS SolidNetWork License (SNL) Manager

However, administrators may wish to limit the number of licenses that users can borrow from the network so that they can ensure there will be enough floating licenses for the users still in the office.

This can be controlled using an Options File.

More information about the process for creating the Options file itself and setting the SNL Manager to use it can be found in my colleague Scott’s informative article.

The option BORROW_LOWWATER can be used to prevent all users from being able to borrowing a license of a specified product from the SolidWorks network licnese.

This can be entered as:  BORROW_LOWWATER feature  n

The value feature should be replaced with the name of the SOLIDWORKS product.  The value n should be replaced with 0 to block all borrowing.

The option BORROW_LOWWATER

The option EXCLUDE_BORROW can be used to prevent a specified user or group from borrowing a license.

This can be entered as:  EXCLUDE_BORROW feature type name

The value feature should be replaced with the name of the SolidWorks product, the value type should be either USER or GROUP and the value name is the group or user name that should be blocked from borrowing.

The option EXCLUDE_BORROW

The post Limiting the Borrowing of SOLIDWORKS Network Licenses appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

When updating SOLIDWORKS that has been installed using a floating, network license the latest version, many users will forget the very last step, re-activating the SolidNetWork License Manager Server.

SOLIDWORKS Error Message

This needs to be done  so that the SolidNetWork License Manager Server can communicate with the SolidWorks Activation Center and be allowed to provide the new, updated licenses to the SolidWorks users who are connected using the network licensing system.

If the step is missed, for instance when updating to SOLIDWORKS 2019, any client computers still using the older version of SOLIDWORKS would still be able to get their licenses and open the program, but as soon as a user tried to open SOLIDWORKS 2019 they would receive the message “Could not obtain a license for SOLIDWORKS”.

That’s because the SNL License manager just wouldn’t have a license of SOLIDWORKS 2019 to give out yet, it needs to be reactivated first.

To reactivate the SolidNetWork License Manager:

Step 1:  Open the “SolidNetWork License Manager Server” program on the computer acting as the license server, and on the “Server Administration” tab click the “Modify…” button.

Step 2:  On the “SolidNetWork License Product Activation” screen, select “Activate/Reactivate your product license(s)” and click “Next >“.

Step 3:  On the “SolidNetWork License Server Information” screen, leave the settings as they are currently, unless you are planning to make a change to the port numbers or start using an Options File.  If not, just click “Next >“.

Step 4:  On the “Activate/Deactivate Your SOLIDWORKS Product” screen, make sure to click “Select All” so that all licenses will be updated.  Then once all license highlight, click “Next >“.

Finished:  Once the activation has completed, click “Finish” to complete the process and close the SOLIDWORKS Product Activation window.

Once complete, all users will be able to access the latest SOLIDWORKS network licenses.

The post The Last Step to Update the SOLIDWORKS SolidNetWork License Server appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

SOLIDWORKS Simulation is available with various levels of licensing, providing access to specific study types:

• SOLIDWORKS Premium license gives you access to Linear Static and Motion studies
• SOLIDWORKS Simulation Standard license includes Linear Static, Motion and Fatigue
• SOLIDWORKS Simulation Professional license includes everything in Simulation Standard and adds Thermal, Buckling, Frequency, Pressure Vessel, Drop Test and Optimization
• SOLIDWORKS Simulation Premium license includes everything in Simulation Professional and adds Nonlinear, Composites and Advanced Dynamics

When using a SOLIDWORKS SolidNetWork License that includes a mixture of two or more of these license types, enabling the Simulation add-in would utilize whatever license was free at the time and based on the order selected in your SolidNetWork License Manager Client.  To choose which license to use, you needed to modify the order in the License Manager Client list in the License Order tab.  Then you could enable the Simulation add-in.

SOLIDWORKS Simulation 2020 adds the ability to select the license type when you enable the Simulation add-in.  This makes it easier to switch between license types.  Go to the Add-ins tab in the CommandManager and use the dropdown menu under Simulation.  Here you can select the license to use.  Below is an example showing how the SOLIDWORKS Premium license will be used when the add-in is enabled.

SOLIDWORKS Simulation 2020 Network License Selection

You have the option to move to a higher level Simulation license while the add-in is still enabled.  This would then only utilize the upper level license and release the lower level (if applicable).  Once a higher level license is used, you cannot downgrade a license while the add-in is enabled.  You must disable the add-in, choose the license type and then re-enable the add-in.

SOLIDWORKS Simulation Premium Network License

The post SOLIDWORKS Simulation 2020 Network License Selection appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

As SOLIDWORKS network licenses are hosted on a server connected to your network, clients must also be connected to the same network to obtain a license.  In some situations it may be required to use a license away from your office, such as working from home or offsite with a laptop.

There are two methods that can be used for clients to use a license:

1. Connect to your network through VPN (requires Internet connection)
2. Borrow a license through the SolidNetwork License Manager (does not require Internet connection)

VPN CONNECTION

VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a client-server relationship that requires a server on the end of the corporate network, and a client to connect to that network.  Clients can be network connections from an operating system or provided via an app such as Cisco connect-anywhere or OpenVPN.  Work with your IT department to implement VPN on your network.

From SOLIDWORKS System requirement page:
SOLIDWORKS does not test or certify VPN (Virtual Private Network) solutions but provides best-effort support.  Users may be directed to work directly with their VPN provider to resolve issues on a case-by-case basis.

From the SOLIDWORKS Knowledge Base Article S-057653:
What is the definition of a VPN (Virtual Private Network)?

A virtual private network (VPN) is a computer network that uses a public telecommunication infrastructure such as the Internet to provide remote offices or individual users with secure access to their organisation’s network. It aims to avoid an expensive system of owned or leased lines that can be used by only one organisation.

Details about support guidelines and policies for VPN (Virtual Private Network) can be found in the notes at the bottom of the SOLIDWORKS and SOLIDWORKS PDM System Requirements web page at: https://www.solidworks.com/sw/support/SystemRequirements.html

Please review the notes for the most current information regarding VPN usage.

If users have issues obtaining a license over a VPN connection, there may be issues connecting to the server or firewalls blocking communication.  Review our article SOLIDWORKS SolidNetWork License Manager Troubleshooting.

BORROW LICENSES FROM THE SOLIDNETWORK LICENSE MANAGER

A connection to your network is required to initially borrow a license.  Once borrowed, the computer can be disconnected from the network and will not require any internet connection to run.

IMPORTANT: Do not borrow a license when connected to VPN.  Only borrow when physically connected to the network.  The use of an ethernet cable is highly recommended, rather than using Wi-Fi connections.

Open the SolidNetwork License Manager Client on the user machine.  This can be found under Start > SolidWorks Tools 20XX > SolidNetwork License Manager Client 20XX.  There should be 4 tabs at the top.  Select “License Borrowing”.

SOLIDWORKS Network License Borrow

The list of products that have an available license will be shown in the list.  Select the one required and specify the last day you will need the license.  Licenses are limited to a 30-day maximum borrow period.  This maximum period can be shortened using an Options file.

SOLIDWORKS will be available for use through to 11:59pm on the day specified.  At midnight of the following day, the license will expire on the client laptop and the license will be freed up on the server.  The license will need to be borrowed again after 30 days.

Once you have selected a product and the borrow until date, click Borrow.  This will move the license under the Borrowed Product Licenses window.  A Standard License will automatically be borrowed with any higher level license.

SOLIDWORKS Network Licenses Borrowed

A borrowed license will be shown In Use from the network pool until it is returned.  If you get back to the office before the date specified, you can manually return the license.  Reconnect to the network.  Select the license in the Borrowed Product Licenses list and click Return.  The license will be returned and become available to the network pool.

SOLIDWORKS Network License Return

The post Using your SOLIDWORKS Network Licenses Away from the Office appeared first on The Javelin Blog.