Selecting the right SOLIDWORKS license is crucial for businesses aiming to balance cost, flexibility, and accessibility.

With four licensing options available – Perpetual Standalone, Perpetual Network, Term Standalone, and Term Network – it’s essential to understand the differences and advantages of each.

This guide breaks down these licensing models, helping you determine the best fit for your engineering and design needs.

1. Understanding SOLIDWORKS Licensing Models

1.1. SOLIDWORKS Perpetual Licensing: A Long-Term Commitment

SOLIDWORKS Perpetual Licensing provides lifetime access to SOLIDWORKS, requiring a larger upfront investment.

While the software remains yours indefinitely, continued support, updates, and cloud-based tools require an active Subscription Service renewal.

1.1.1. SOLIDWORKS Perpetual Standalone License

A Perpetual Standalone License is locked to a single device. It’s best suited for individuals or companies with dedicated workstations that do not require multiple users accessing the software.

• Best for: Small teams or individuals who use SOLIDWORKS on one dedicated computer.
• Challenges: Limited flexibility – software is traditionally assigned to a single machine.

1.1.2. SOLIDWORKS Perpetual Network License (Floating License)

A Perpetual Network License allows multiple users to share a floating license across a network. The software is installed on multiple machines, but usage is limited to the number of available seats.

• Best for: Teams needing shared access across multiple users and locations.
• Challenges: Higher initial cost and requires the once off purchase of a Network License Manager to manage license distribution.

1.2. SOLIDWORKS Term Licensing: The Flexible & Cost-Effective Alternative

SOLIDWORKS Term Licensing (YLC or QLC) offers subscription-based access to SOLIDWORKS, providing businesses with flexibility, lower upfront costs, and always access the latest SOLIDWORKS version. It is an ideal solution for growing companies, contract-based work, or teams requiring temporary licenses.

1.2.1. SOLIDWORKS Term Standalone License

A Term Standalone License works similarly to its perpetual counterpart but is renewable Quarterly or annually instead of requiring a one-time purchase.

• Best for: Businesses that need a cost-effective solution with predictable renewal costs.
• Advantages: No large upfront costs, always access the latest SOLIDWORKS version, lower cost access to SOLIDWORKS software tools beyond 3D CAD with simple renewal options.

1.2.2. SOLIDWORKS Term Network License (Floating License)

A Term Network License functions like a floating license but operates on a subscription basis. It enables multiple users to share licenses without the long-term financial commitment of a perpetual license, though it does require a one-time purchase of a Network License Manager.

• Best for: Teams needing flexible, shared access to SOLIDWORKS.
• Advantages: Scalability – licenses can be adjusted based on project requirements.

2. Which SOLIDWORKS License is Right for You?

3. The Bottom Line: The Case for SOLIDWORKS Term Licensing

While Perpetual Licensing offers lifetime software ownership, it requires customers to renew subscriptions annually to access value-added products, support, and software updates. This can lead to ongoing costs and administrative burdens.

In contrast, Term Licensing provides an alternative that excels in flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency. It allows businesses to adjust their licensing needs based on current demands, avoiding the financial strain of long-term commitments.

Additionally, Term Licensing ensures that companies always have access to the latest software versions and support without the hassle of annual renewals, making it a more dynamic and responsive solution for modern business environments.

If you’re uncertain about which license is the best fit for your business, reach out to our team. We’re here to provide expert guidance and help you choose the optimal SOLIDWORKS licensing solution tailored to your needs.