This article applies to SOLIDWORKS version 2026 and earlier.

INDEX

• 1. FAQ about installing a SolidNetwork License Manager (SNL)
• 2. Software download
• 3. Install Network License Manager
• 4. Using the Network License Manager 
• 5. Working with the Network License Manager
• 6. Client installation
• 7. Windows Defender Firewall ports exception

1. FAQ about installing a SolidNetwork License Manager (SNL)

• Which products are eligible for SolidNetwork License Manager?

SOLIDWORKS CAD, SOLIDWORKS Simulation, SOLIDWORKS FlowSimulation, SOLIDWORKS Plastics, SOLIDWORKS PDM, SOLIDWORKS Manage, SOLIDWORKS Composer, SOLIDWORKS Visualize, SOLIDWORKS Inspection, SOLIDWORKS MBD, SOLIDWORKS Electrical, SOLIDWORKS PCB, SOLIDWORKS CAM, DraftSight Enterprise

• What is a SolidNetwork License Manager?

The license manager takes care of distributing licenses for the individual users according to their needs.

• Where can the SolidNetwork License Manager be installed?

This is usually installed on a suitable server (in exceptional cases it can also run on a computer in the network).

!!! Important !!!

Note the system requirements for the SOLIDWORKS server products.

• Are older SOLIDWORKS versions also supported by the SNL Manager?

 Yes, the versions of the server and all older versions are always supported.

• Further questions?

More answers to frequently asked questions at:

FAQ SNL

2. Software download

To download the installation data, you must be logged in with your 3DExperience ID and possess the appropriate permissions. 

If you have the necessary rights, you only need to go to the SOLIDWORKS homepage and you can access the versions available to you under the Download item at the bottom of the page.

• Visit the SOLIDWORKS website: www.solidworks.com 
• Scroll to the bottom of the page and click Download

• Click at "Access Downloads"

• You can log in with both your SOLIDWORKS ID and your 3DEXPERIENCE ID (identical)

• After logging in, you will reach the download page where you can download the SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager for your desired version. 

• The SNL should always be installed in the latest available version (current Service Pack), as it can manage older client versions. However, it is logical to use the same version as your clients (e.g., if the Client is 2025, use SNL Version 2025). 

!!Important!!

Note that your system meets the requirements for the SOLIDWORKS version being used.

!!Important!!

system requirements

3. Install Network License Manager

• Running the Installation Manager

Initially, only the installation manager is downloaded from the SOLIDWORKS website. This is located in your download folder under the name "SolidWorksSetup.exe".

Info: It is recommended to disable virus scanners during download and installation of SOLIDWORKS products.

• Defining the Installation Type

Start the installation manager with administrator rights.

Select the SolidNetWork License Manager option. 

• Enter serial number

Enter your serial number and set the installation location.

In the following overview you may change the installation location and the download options. Usually the default settings are used.

• Start installation

4. Using the Network License Manager 

• Starting the SolidNetWork License Manager Server.

It can be called using the Windows start menu

• Activating the License

During the first launch you will be prompted to activate the license. Click on "Yes" to proceed with the activation.

The computer name and connection numbers (ports) are displayed under Server Information. Even if no firewall is active, it is recommended to leave the option "A firewall is activated on this server" selected.

The license needs to be activated on the SOLIDWORKS server. It is recommended to activate automatically via the internet. If you do not have internet access on the server/computer, the license can also be activated manually via email.

Activation is completed with a click at "Finish".

5. Working with the Network License Manager

• Server administration

After activation, the server starts automatically and the Start button is grayed out.

Under Modify, the license can be returned to the SOLIDWORKS server when changing servers.

!!!Important!!!

This must be done if the server is changed, otherwise the license will remain on the old server.

• License Use

The number of licenses per product and the current use can be viewed under this tab.

6. Client installation

Now the installation of your SOLIDWORKS products can take place on the clients. Make sure that the clients can also establish a connection to the server.

Network License Manager address is 25734@<'myServer'> or 25734@<'IP address'>.

• Communication problem

A firewall is a common reason for communication failures.

Therefore, how to open the ports for Windows Defender Firewall is described in the following point.

7. Windows Defender Firewall ports exception

• Advanced Settings

To allow the ports to be released, select the "Advanced settings" under Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.

• Create a new rule

A new incoming and outgoing rule should now be created for the server and client.

(Since the steps for creating both rules are identical, they will be explained together below)

To do this, click on "New Rule".

• Opening the Ports

• Choose Ports.

•  25734 and 25735 must be entered under "Specific local ports". These ports are the same for every SolidNetWork license. 

• Select "Allow the connection".

• The settings for applying the rule depend on the network used.

• The name of the rule can always be chosen individually. It is recommended to use a name that uniquely identifies the rule.