This article will guide you through the upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 regarding SOLIDWORKS software.
Before upgrading from Windows 10 to 11, ensure you are using a version of SOLIDWORKS that supports the new operating system. You should also confirm your hardware meets the Windows 11 requirements, including a supported CPU and TPM 2.0.
Note: Windows 10 support will end on October 14, 2025!
Before Upgrading to Windows 11
Check Hardware Compatibility: Use the Microsoft PC Health Checker to ensure your system meets the Windows 11 requirements, such as a modern CPU (Intel 8th Gen or AMD Zen 2 or newer) and a motherboard with TPM 2.0 support.
Verify SOLIDWORKS Version: Confirm that your current SOLIDWORKS version is 2022 SP2 or newer, as older versions are not supported on Windows 11.
Verify SOLIDWORKS System Requirements: Ensure that your current system meets or exceeds the system requirements outlined here.
Back Up Your Data: It is always a good practice to back up your important data before making major changes to your operating system.
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- Back up your SOLIDWORKS settings.
- Check-in all files if a PDM system is in use.
- Back up any configuration file, template, or library created beyond the default files from the SOLIDWORKS install.
De-activate SOLIDWORKS Standalone Licenses: You will need to deactivate any SOLIDWORKS licenses on your machine before starting the Windows 11 upgrade. This is because FlexLM’s algorithm will create a new output for this different OS, causing your licenses to fail and requiring you to contact your VAR to have them disable it manually. Here is a link to the article on deactivation.
During the Windows 11 Upgrade
Perform the Windows Upgrade: Follow the official Microsoft instructions to upgrade your operating system.
Update Graphics Settings (If needed): After upgrading, use the Windows 11 Graphics Settings (accessed by typing "graphics" in the search bar) to ensure SOLIDWORKS is using your dedicated professional graphics card instead of the integrated CPU graphics. You may also need to update your video driver, which you can check and download from here.
After Windows 11 Upgrade
Install All Windows and Driver Updates: Ensure that you run Windows Update and complete all OS and Driver updates before proceeding with SOLIDWORKS installation.
Install/Update/Repair SOLIDWORKS: Install a fresh version of SOLIDWORKS or use the SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager to update your existing software to a version that supports Windows 11. If you already have a correct version prior to upgrading Windows, we recommend performing a software repair and then restarting the machine. If you are using an Admin Image for installation, we recommend uninstalling that version before the Windows upgrade and reinstalling it after the upgrade is complete.
Activate Your License: Launch SOLIDWORKS and activate your license if prompted.
Contact Your Reseller: If you encounter any installation or compatibility issues, contact your SOLIDWORKS reseller for assistance.