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How to Use 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS (SOLIDWORKS Connected) Offline: Steps for Preparation and Usage

Using SOLIDWORKS Connected offline can be super handy if you're traveling or expect internet connection issues.

Note: This applies to SOLIDWORKS Connected, not SOLIDWORKS Standalone, network, or the Design with SOLIDWORKS App

To use SOLIDWORKS Connected without an internet connection, you need to enable offline mode in advance. Here are the steps to do so:

First, Save Your Work:

    • Ensure that you save any files you are working on before going offline, especially if you are using cloud storage.
    • Any work you do will be saved locally to your '3DEXPERIENCE Files on this PC' folder to be synced when you are able to go back online.
Then you can tell SOLIDWORKS to take the license offline

  1. Launch SOLIDWORKS:

    • Open the SOLIDWORKS application on your computer.

  2. Access Your Profile:

    • Click on your initials or photo icon located in the top right corner of the application, just to the left of the question mark.

  3. Select Offline Mode:

    • Choose the option for Work Offline.

  4. Define Offline Duration:

    • In the subsequent window, specify how long you want to work offline. You can select a duration of up to 30 days.

Important Considerations

  • After the selected offline period ends, you will need to reconnect to the internet to continue using SOLIDWORKS and upload any files to the platform.
  • If you are using Cloud Storage, and files that you work on during your offline period will be saved to your '3DEXPERIENCE Files on this PC' folder. You can access that by hovering over the tab in the Task Pane. 
  • It is advisable to test the offline mode for a few days to familiarize yourself with the workflow before relying on it for extended periods, such as during travel.
  • Note that if a license of SOLIDWORKS is taken offline, then it will not be able to be used on another computer until that software is back online again. 

UPDATE  - Unplanned Offline Usage Now Available

  • With the recent updates, if you unexpectedly lose your internet connection, SOLIDWORKS allows you to continue working offline. You will be prompted to save your work, and even if the program closes, you should be able to relaunch it and continue your work in offline mode.

Tip:  A lot of users who prefer an offline model will follow a workflow like this:
Frist, take the software offline as mentioned above, and set the duration for 13 days (often done on a Monday). Then on the 14th day, the software will automatically reconnect and prompt for any required updates. Use this time to perform those updates and sync any data if you are using the Cloud Storage. Then take the software offline again. This creates a rhythm where updates and upload times are planned and expected, make it easier to keep the software up to date while minimizing downtime.

 

Conclusion

By following the steps outlined above, you can effectively prepare SOLIDWORKS for offline use, ensuring that you can continue your work without interruption, even when an internet connection is not available.