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How to Change Your SOLIDWORKS Desktop Serial Number (Standalone) How to Change Your SOLIDWORKS Desktop Serial Number (Standalone)

How to Change Your SOLIDWORKS Desktop Serial Number (Standalone)

Changing your SOLIDWORKS Desktop serial number for a standalone installation is a straightforward process that doesn't require reinstalling the software.

The procedure is the same whether you have a Term license or a Perpetual License + Yearly Maintenance.  Follow these steps to update your serial number:

1. Deactivate the Current License

Before making any changes, it's essential to deactivate your existing SOLIDWORKS Desktop license to prevent activation conflicts.
  • Open SOLIDWORKS Desktop.
  • Navigate to the Help menu and select Licenses > Deactivate.
  • Follow the prompts to complete the deactivation process.
Deactivate

2. Modify the Installation to Update the Serial Number

After deactivating the license, proceed to change the serial number:

  • Access the Control Panel:
    • Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and press Enter.
  • Navigate to Apps & Features:
    • If using Windows 10, go to Go to Settings and then Apps & Features.  
  • Modify the SOLIDWORKS Desktop Installation:
    • Locate SOLIDWORKS Desktop in the list of installed programs.
    • Select it and click Modify.  
    • NOTE: Do NOT Select Uninstall. If the only option available is Uninstall, then your SOLIDWORKS was installed using an Administrative Image.  This requires a different procedure.

Add Remove Modify

3. Reactivate SOLIDWORKS Desktop with the New Serial Number

The SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager will now launch. Select the top option, “Modify the individual installation” and click “Next”.

Installation Manager Welcome

  • Enter the New Serial Number:
    • On the Serial Number screen, input your new serial number. 
Installation Manager Serial Number SOLIDWORKS Serial
    • Click Next to proceed through the subsequent screens without making additional changes.
    • On the Summary screen, check the box for I accept the terms of the SOLIDWORKS License Agreement
    • Click Modify Now to apply the changes.

Installation Manager Summary

Once the modification is complete, you'll need to reactivate SOLIDWORKS Desktop:

    • Launch SOLIDWORKS Desktop.
    • An Activation Wizard should appear, prompting you to activate the new serial number.
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the activation process.

 

By following these steps, you can successfully change your SOLIDWORKS Desktop serial number for a standalone installation without the need for a complete reinstallation.

For further assistance or support, don't hesitate to reach out to 3DChimera!

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