Named User vs Network Licensing for SOLIDWORKS

Companies should thoroughly grasp the advantages and disadvantages associated with each licensing option while acquiring new software packages. The selected license can significantly influence the workflow of the end user. SOLIDWORKS offers diverse licensing types tailored to meet the requirements of any organization. Network licensing and Named-User licensing are two alternatives that offer flexibility beyond the conventional node-locked licensing, which ties a license to a single computer.

What’s the big difference between SOLIDWORKS Network and Named-User Licensing?

The primary distinction between Named User licensing and Network licensing lies in how and when users can access the software. In essence, Network licensing permits an unlimited number of users to access the software by drawing a license from a shared pool of available licenses. On the other hand, Named User licensing associates a specific user with each license, enabling that user to work from any number of devices.

What is SOLIDWORKS Network Licensing?

Network licensing is generally most effective for teams operating in the same physical location; otherwise, a VPN connection is required to activate a license from the organization’s network. When off-site or without an internet connection, you have the option to check out a Network license for a specific machine. This licensing model often involves companies purchasing a specific number of ‘seats’ for the software, where the number of seats corresponds to the employees who can access the software simultaneously. It proves cost-effective for teams that don’t require daily software use, allowing, for example, the purchase of 5 seats for an 8-person team working at different times.

When contemplating Network Licensing, it’s crucial to evaluate the ratio of total users to concurrent users planned. This assessment is key in determining whether the need justifies the cost, considering that Network licenses typically incur a higher per-license cost. Reach out to us today for assistance in determining the best fit for your needs!

Benefits of SOLIDWORKS Network Licensing

• Purchased according to the necessary quantity of simultaneous ‘seats,’ not the total number of users.

• Multiple users can access the software at the same time, as long as a seat is available on the network.

Drawbacks of SOLIDWORKS Network Licensing

• Users need network access (or VPN) for connectivity.

• Access will be denied if no seats are currently available.

• A server is necessary to access licenses.

What is SOLIDWORKS Named-User Licensing?

In contrast to Network licensing, Named User licensing links software access to specific individuals. Licenses are procured based on the precise number of employees requiring access to the software. Administrators can assign varying levels of access to each employee, who, in turn, can access their assigned software from any compatible device. Manual deactivation or reactivation of licenses when switching devices is unnecessary; the license is automatically released upon closing SOLIDWORKS.

Similar to Network licensing, Named-User licensing requires an internet connection for license usage. However, it doesn’t have to be your organization’s network, and no VPN is mandatory. Additionally, you have the option to check out a Named-User license for a specific machine in case of an anticipated lack of internet connection.

Benefits of SOLIDWORKS Named-User Licensing

• Software access is available to users from any location at any time.

• Administrators can easily modify software access for individuals or groups of users.

• License hosting does not require a local server.

• There are no serial numbers to handle or store.

Drawbacks of SOLIDWORKS Named-User Licensing

• The software is accessible only to the designated user.

• Access needs to be purchased individually for each user of the software.

In summary, both Named User and Network licensing offer smooth access for all SOLIDWORKS and 3DEXPERIENCE. users within an organization. Administrators should thoroughly evaluate both options before deciding on the most suitable solution for their company. If you remain uncertain about the best choice for your organization, reach out to our team for assistance to ensure confidence in your decision!