SOLIDWORKS users often encounter technical challenges that can impact their workflow. This article covers three common issues—resolving 4K monitor scaling problems, using standalone license files, and upgrading the SolidNetwork License Manager—to help streamline your experience with SOLIDWORKS.
If you experience scaling problems with a 4K resolution display while using SOLIDWORKS, follow these steps to optimize your settings:
Adjust Windows Display Scaling:
Ensure that your Windows scaling in Display Properties is set to 100% or 125%, but no higher.
Modify SOLIDWORKS Compatibility Settings:
Navigate to C:\Program Files\SOLIDWORKS Corp\SOLIDWORKS.
Locate the SLDWORKS.exe file.
Right-click and select Properties.
Go to the Compatibility tab and click Change Settings for all users.
Select Change high DPI settings.
Check the box for “Override high DPI scaling behavior, scaling performed by: Application”.
Reboot Your Workstation: After making these adjustments, restart your system to apply the changes.
Following these steps should resolve most 4K resolution-related issues caused by Windows scaling.
For users in environments where online activation is not feasible (such as air-gapped systems), a Standalone License file (Activation Exemption File) can be used to activate SOLIDWORKS offline.
Obtain Approval:
Request an Activation Exemption from SOLIDWORKS via a service request.
Once approved, you will receive a license file named SolidworksStandaloneLic.lic.
Verify File Details:
Ensure that the HOSTID field matches your computer's MAC address.
Verify that the NOTICE field contains your company name.
Place the License File in the Correct Location:
Copy the license file to: C:\ProgramData\SOLIDWORKS
If the folder is hidden, enable hidden file visibility in Windows Explorer Options.
Once the file is correctly placed, SOLIDWORKS should recognize the standalone license, allowing you to use the software offline. This exemption must be renewed every two years.
When upgrading to a new major release of SOLIDWORKS, you must also update the SolidNetwork License Manager. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth upgrade process:
Check for Active Clients:
Open SolidNetWork License Manager Server from Start > SOLIDWORKS Tools <version>.
Navigate to the License Usage tab and confirm that no client computers are currently running SOLIDWORKS.
Uninstall the Old License Manager:
Follow the steps in the Uninstalling the SolidNetWork License Manager documentation.
Install the New License Manager:
Download and install the latest version.
Reactivate the SolidNetWork license on the license manager computer.
Upgrade Clients and Administrative Images:
If the license manager is on a system running SOLIDWORKS, upgrade both the license manager and clients before applying new service packs.
If the license manager hosts administrative images, upgrade it before updating the images.
By following these steps, you can ensure seamless licensing management for your SOLIDWORKS network environment.
Managing SOLIDWORKS installations efficiently requires attention to display settings, license management, and network configurations. By troubleshooting 4K monitor issues, properly handling standalone licenses, and upgrading the SolidNetwork License Manager, users can minimize downtime and optimize performance. If you need further assistance, refer to SOLIDWORKS documentation or consult with a certified reseller for support.
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