Clean Uninstallation/Reinstallation of SOLIDWORKS

When uninstalling SOLIDWORKS from a computer, whether the goal is to perform a clean reinstallation of the program or to decommission a particular workstation, these steps will remove all items associated with SOLIDWORKS. These items include program files and folders, registry entries, data files and folders, and download files and folders.

Step 1: Back Up and Obtaining Installation Files

If the goal is to reinstall SOLIDWORKS, ensure you have the proper installation files ready before uninstalling. Installation files can be located on the provided DVD or in a downloaded file. The download is readily available through the GoEngineer download page or from the SOLIDWORKS Customer Portal.

User’s custom toolbars layout, shortcuts, menus, and file locations can all be saved and loaded into the new installation. The Copy Setting Wizard program will save these settings as a .SLDREG file. This file should be saved in a known location. Use the same program and the Restore Settings option following reinstallation. This program can be found here: Start -> All Programs -> SOLIDWORKS 20XX -> SOLIDWORKS Tools -> Copy Setting Wizard 20XX.

Step 2: Transferring License

Before removing SOLIDWORKS, it is the best practice to transfer the license from the machine. This creates an open activation on the SOLIDWORKS activation server. This step is not necessary if a network or floating serial number is used.

Click Help inside of the SOLIDWORKS program, then click Transfer or Deactivate Licenses. Complete the transfer process through the Product Activation window.

Step 3: Uninstallation

Follow these steps to begin the uninstallation process The uninstallation and reinstallation process should be completed on the local admin account for the best results.

1. Start -> Control Panel -> Programs and Features -> Select SOLIDWORKS 20XX SPX -> Click Uninstall
   
   This will open the SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager to the uninstallation summary page. Select CHANGE listed next to the Advanced Options.
   
   
2. Select the boxes of the items you wish to have removed from the computer.
   
   
   
   
3. Click Back to Summary , then, click Remove Items to uninstall SOLIDWORKS and remove all selected items.
   
   Note: Any SOLIDWORKS part, assembly, or drawing files will not be removed through this process.

Step 4: Reinstallation

Right-click on the setup.exe file located in the top-level folder of the installation media and run as administrator. Disable any anti-virus or user account controls that may interfere with the installation process. Windows SmartScreen has also been known to block the SOLIDWORKS installation.

Save any and all log files in the event of a failed installation so we may help diagnose. Log files are typically auto-saved here: C:\Users\User\AppData\Roaming\SOLIDWORKS\Installation Logs.