How to change SOLIDWORKS serial number

Sometimes there is a need to change the SOLIDWORKS license serial number. This is required when SOLIDWORKS Term license has expired and renewed afterwards after being in expired state for some time. Users might have been using incorrect serial by accident.

This is how you change SOLIDWORKS serial number without uninstalling and reinstalling:

1. If you are using SOLIDWORKS Standalone license, please transfer the existing license by selecting "Licenses" and then command "Deactivate".

If you are using an expired Term license serial number, there is no need to deactivate license.

As longs as the workstations is connected to internet you can use the option "Automatically over the internet", License is then transferred within around 10 seconds. If you are using a network (SNL) license (serial number's third digit is "1": for example 0010 0001 0002 0003) there is no need to transfer license. 

2. Please launch Windows "Control Panel" and select "Programs and Features".

3. Right-click on top of listed SOLIDWORKS installation and select the option "Change".

HINT: You will find the installation quickly if you filter the list with word "solidworks".

4. SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager starts. Select the option "Modify your installation" and press "Next".

Then you can change the serial number(s). You can also use copy-paste to paste the new serial number. Then press "Next".

5. If you want to add or remove products in this installation check the products you want to add and remove the checkmark from the products you want to remove. It is important to modify the products when SOLIDWORKS license level (for example "Premium" -> "Standard") changes.

If you only want to change the serial number and not add or remove any products, just proceed with pressing "Next" without touching the product checkmarks. Finally, press "Modify now" to start modifying the installation to change the serial number.

6. Wait until you get a message "Installation is Complete". Modifying the installation is now ready and serial number has been changed.

Press "Finish" button to finish the installation procedure.

7. Launch SOLIDWORKS.

8. Activate the license by selecting  "License" and then "Activate". It might also be that activation window appears automatically.

Press "Select All" to activate all licenses. Select the option "Automatically over the internet...". Remember to type your emai address and then finally press "Next".

9. Serial number change has now been completed.