Before making any significant changes to your system, ensure all important files are backed up. This is a critical step in case anything goes wrong during the installation process.
If your company or university manages your licenses, they typically provide a direct download link via a secure server or physical media (USB/DVD). Contact your local Value-Added Reseller (VAR) or IT department to request the SolidWorks 2018 installation package if you cannot access the online portal. 4. Step-by-Step Installation Procedure
Check or uncheck components based on your needs (e.g., add SolidWorks CAM or remove eDrawings if unnecessary). Unchecking unused add-ins saves valuable disk space. Step 4: Configure Installation Locations
Before diving into the technical aspects of installation, it is worth understanding the significance of this release. SOLIDWORKS 2018 introduced numerous innovations that have made it a lasting and popular choice for professionals across various industries.
16 GB minimum. 32 GB is highly recommended for large assemblies and simulation work. solidworks 2018 download and install new
Verify your computer meets the requirements for 2018 (Windows 10 64-bit is recommended). Back up any existing SOLIDWORKS settings or files. 2. Downloading SOLIDWORKS 2018 Via SOLIDWORKS Customer Portal: Log in to the SOLIDWORKS Customer Portal Navigate to Download and Updates Select the year from the dropdown menu. Download the SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager (a small file that manages the full download). Via Physical Media/Existing Installation Files: If you have the original 2018 DVD or a saved SOLIDWORKS_Setup.exe file, use that. 3. Installation Steps Run the Installer: Run the downloaded installer file (e.g., Choose Installation Type: Install on this computer and click Next. Enter Serial Number: Enter your 24-digit serial number. Configure Installation Manager: Select the products you want to install. Download Options: The manager will download required files if necessary. Installation Location: Choose the installation directory (default is C:\Program Files\SOLIDWORKS Corp Install Now 4. Activation Once installed, launch SOLIDWORKS 2018. Follow the prompts to Activate your product online immediately. Key Features of SOLIDWORKS 2018
Select Individual (on this computer) and click Next .
Set Windows User Account Control (UAC) to "Never Notify" and restart your PC.
Windows 11 is not officially supported for SolidWorks 2018 and may experience compatibility issues. 32-bit operating systems are completely unsupported. Hardware Specifications Before making any significant changes to your system,
Before beginning your download, ensure your hardware is capable of running SOLIDWORKS 2018 to avoid performance issues or installation failures.
Accept the by checking the box at the bottom.
After the installation finishes, you must activate the product to use it. A prompt will appear asking to activate. Method: Select "Automatically over the internet." Email: Provide your contact email.
Locate your 24-digit SolidWorks 2018 serial number from your purchase documentation or network license administrator. 3. How to Download SolidWorks 2018 Safely Contact your local Value-Added Reseller (VAR) or IT
To download SolidWorks 2018, you'll need to purchase a license or obtain a trial version from the official SolidWorks website. Here's how:
Choose the latest Service Pack available (e.g., is the most stable and final release for the 2018 cycle).
Always aim for Service Pack 5.0 (the final release of 2018), as it contains all the bug fixes discovered throughout that year's lifecycle.
The wizard will open automatically. Select "I want to activate my SolidWorks product now."