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

• Open SOLIDWORKS Desktop.
• Navigate to the Help menu and select Licenses > Deactivate.
• Follow the prompts to complete the deactivation process.

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.

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”.

• Enter the New Serial Number:
  • On the Serial Number screen, input your new serial number. 

• 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.

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!