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SOLIDWORKS Licences Explained

Written by Annuscha Reyneke | 2023

Unsure of which SOLIDWORKS license fits your needs?

If you’re having trouble understanding the different SOLIDWORKS licensing models, that's okay! We will review the major options to help determine which is right for you.

SOLIDWORKS Licenses 

  • Standalone licenses (one active installation at a time) 
  • 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS (online based license)
  • Network licenses (float between many users and computers on a given network) 
  • Term licenses (flexible rental option with lower upfront cost)

     

What is a standalone SOLIDWORKS license? 

Standalone licensing is the go-to choice for most customers, providing a single SOLIDWORKS license that can be installed and activated on one computer. While it's possible to install SOLIDWORKS on more than one PC with this model, you will need to transfer your license each time you want to move between different machines -  such as when you need to move your SOLDIWORKS to your laptop when traveling for business.

What is 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS?

3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS is a version of SOLIDWORKS much like standalone SOLIDWORKS. It's installed on your computer just like any SOLIDWORKS, can save files locally. However its licensing is online based, so you can easily switch between different devices without needing to transfer the license manually. It also comes with 3DEXPERIENCE integrations like cloud based PDM and backup with revision and approval control, access to cloud CAD tools like 3DSculptor, and easy ways of sharing your designs with colleagues, suppliers and clients.

What is SOLIDWORKS Network Licensing? 

Network licensing is an ideal choice for larger businesses, especially those with many users that might have intermittent or flexible usage of their various licenses. Network licenses allow users to pull from a License Server or pool of licenses, and return them once they are done, you can liken this to a library where you only borrow a license as needed and return it once you’re done. Network licenses can be “booked out” for up to 30 days for users traveling away from the license server.

What is Term Licensing? 

All SOLIDWORKS licenses are available with the traditional “Perpetual Option” pricing model, in which you pay an upfront fee, and then a much-reduced maintenance fee to gain access to updates, support and subscription benefits such as free certifications.

If you're considering SOLIDWORKS but want more flexibility and lower upfront costs, try term licensing! This allows users to enjoy the same great benefits of full subscription services over a three-month or one-year period.

Plus, Standard, Professional and Premium versions are all available for this type of license - so there's an option suitable for everyone. Even Network and 3DEXPERIENCE options are available with Term Licensing.

Have a question about SOLIDWORKS licensing, 3DEXPERIENCE or other products? Our friendly team is standing by to assist!

Phone us on 012 645 4300 or complete the form and we'll call you!