SolidWorks 2018 Activator: The Ultimate Guide to Download and Use
SolidWorks 2018 Activator Free Download: What You Need to Know
If you are looking for a way to use SolidWorks 2018, one of the most popular and powerful CAD programs, without paying for a license, you might have come across the term "SolidWorks 2018 activator". But what is it exactly and how does it work? Is it safe and legal to use? Are there any alternatives to it? In this article, we will answer these questions and more, so you can make an informed decision about whether to use SolidWorks 2018 activator or not.
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What is SolidWorks 2018 and why is it popular?
SolidWorks is a 3D design and engineering software that allows you to create, simulate, visualize, and collaborate on various types of products, from mechanical parts to complex assemblies. It is widely used by professionals and hobbyists alike, in industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical, architecture, and education.
SolidWorks 2018 features and benefits
SolidWorks 2018 is the latest version of the software that was released in September 2020. It includes new features and enhancements that respond to user requests and the needs of modern product development. Some of the highlights are:
A dedicated touch screen mode that provides a new set of productivity tools for working on touch-enabled devices.
A simulation topology study that automatically optimizes the shape of a design based on weight, function, and manufacturing criteria.
An integrated, intelligent CAM and inspection tool that streamlines NC programming and quality control.
More flexibility with data import and export, supporting file formats such as STL, OBJ, ACIS, STEP, and IGES.
Drawing enhancements such as inserting 3D model views, automatic advanced hole callouts, layer support for cross hatching, and more.
A tab and slot feature that automates the creation of tab and slot features for self-fixturing of parts for welding.
Improved project and process management with SOLIDWORKS Manage, a new product that provides comprehensive tools for managing data, projects, processes, and items.
SolidWorks 2018 system requirements and compatibility
To run SolidWorks 2018 smoothly on your computer, you need to meet the following minimum system requirements:
Operating SystemRAMProcessorGraphics CardHard Disk Space
Windows 10 (64-bit)8 GBIntel or AMD with SSE2 supportCertified cards and drivers5 GB
SolidWorks 2018 is also compatible with Windows 7 SP1 (64-bit) and Windows 8.1 (64-bit), but not with Windows XP or Vista. It also supports Microsoft Excel and Word 2010, 2020, or Office365.
What is SolidWorks 2018 activator and how does it work?
SolidWorks 2018 activator is a software tool that claims to bypass the license activation process of SolidWorks 2018 and enable you to use the full version of the software for free. It is usually distributed as a crack, patch, keygen, or loader file that modifies the original program files or registry entries of SolidWorks 2018.
SolidWorks 2018 activator installation and activation steps
The exact steps to install and activate SolidWorks 2018 using an activator may vary depending on the source and type of the activator, but they generally follow this pattern:
Download the SolidWorks 2018 activator from a website or a torrent link. Be careful of malware and viruses that may be hidden in the file.
Extract the activator file using a program like WinRAR or 7-Zip. You may need a password to unlock the file.
Run the activator file as an administrator. It may ask you to select the version and components of SolidWorks 2018 that you want to activate.
Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the activation process. You may need to disable your antivirus or firewall software temporarily.
Restart your computer and launch SolidWorks 2018. You should see a message that says "Activated" or "License valid" in the program window.
What are the risks of using SolidWorks 2018 activator?
While using SolidWorks 2018 activator may seem like an easy and convenient way to get access to a premium software for free, it comes with several risks that you should be aware of before you decide to use it.
Legal risks of using pirated software
Using SolidWorks 2018 activator is illegal and violates the intellectual property rights of Dassault Systèmes, the developer and owner of SolidWorks. By using an activator, you are essentially stealing their software and depriving them of their rightful revenue. This is not only unethical, but also punishable by law. According to the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA), software piracy can result in civil and criminal penalties, including fines up to $150,000 per infringement and imprisonment up to five years.
Technical risks of using cracked software
Using SolidWorks 2018 activator is also risky from a technical standpoint, as it can compromise the performance, security, and stability of your computer and your data. Some of the possible technical risks are:
Lack of updates and support: Using an activator prevents you from receiving official updates and patches from Dassault Systèmes, which means you will miss out on important bug fixes, security enhancements, and new features. You will also not be able to access their customer support or online resources if you encounter any problems or issues with the software.
Mismatched versions and components: Using an activator may cause compatibility issues between different versions and components of SolidWorks 2018, such as service packs, add-ins, libraries, and templates. This can lead to errors, crashes, and corrupted files.
Malware infection: Using an activator exposes you to the risk of downloading and installing malware on your computer, such as viruses, trojans, worms, spyware, ransomware, and adware. These malicious programs can damage your system, steal your personal information, encrypt your data, display unwanted ads, or even take control of your computer remotely.
What are the alternatives to SolidWorks 2018 activator?
If you want to use a CAD program without breaking the law or risking your computer's health, you have two main options: free or open-source CAD programs, or affordable or discounted CAD programs.
Free or open-source CAD programs
Free or open-source CAD programs are software applications that are available for anyone to use without paying any fees or royalties. They are usually developed by communities of volunteers who share their code and expertise with others. Some examples of free or open-source CAD programs are:
FreeCAD: A general-purpose parametric 3D modeler that supports various types of design projects, such as mechanical engineering, architecture, robotics, and product design.
BRL-CAD: A cross-platform solid modeling system that includes interactive geometry editing, ray tracing for rendering and geometric analysis, network distributed framebuffer support, image-processing and signal-processing tools.
LibreCAD: A 2D CAD application that is based on QCAD. It has a user-friendly interface and supports various file formats, such as DXF, LFF, CXF, JWW, BMP, PNG, JPG, SVG.
Affordable or discounted CAD programs
Affordable or discounted CAD programs are software applications that are offered at a lower price than the original or standard price, either by the developer or by a third-party seller. They may be available for a limited time, for a specific group of customers, or for a certain purpose. Some examples of affordable or discounted CAD programs are:
SolidWorks Student Edition: A version of SolidWorks that is designed for students and educators who want to learn and teach 3D design. It includes the same features and functionality as the commercial version, but with some limitations, such as a 12-month term-of-use license, no technical support, and no commercial use. It costs $99 per year.
SolidWorks Subscription Service: A service that provides access to the latest versions and enhancements of SolidWorks, as well as online technical support, training resources, and exclusive partner offers. It costs $1,295 per year for the standard package, $1,995 per year for the professional package, and $2,995 per year for the premium package.
SolidWorks Online Trial: A free trial that allows you to test-drive SolidWorks from your web browser for up to 30 days. You can choose from various scenarios and projects, such as part modeling, assembly modeling, simulation, and rendering. You can also access tutorials and videos to help you get started.
Conclusion
SolidWorks 2018 is a powerful and popular CAD program that can help you create amazing 3D designs and products. However, using SolidWorks 2018 activator to get it for free is not a good idea, as it is illegal and risky. You may face legal consequences, technical problems, and malware infections if you use an activator. Instead, you should consider using free or open-source CAD programs, or affordable or discounted CAD programs, that are legal and safe to use. By doing so, you can enjoy the benefits of CAD software without breaking the law or risking your computer.
FAQs
Q: Is SolidWorks 2018 compatible with Windows 11?
A: According to Dassault Systèmes, SolidWorks 2018 is not officially supported on Windows 11. However, some users have reported that they were able to run it on Windows 11 without any major issues. If you want to try it yourself, make sure you have a backup of your data and system before installing Windows 11.
Q: How can I get a free license of SolidWorks 2018?
A: There is no legal way to get a free license of SolidWorks 2018 for commercial use. However, if you are a student or an educator, you may be eligible for a free license of SolidWorks Education Edition through your school or institution. You can also apply for a free license of SolidWorks for Entrepreneurs if you are a startup or an individual entrepreneur who meets certain criteria.
Q: What are the differences between SolidWorks 2018 Standard, Professional, and Premium?
A: SolidWorks 2018 Standard is the basic package that includes core 3D design capabilities, such as part and assembly modeling, drawing creation, design analysis, and data management. SolidWorks 2018 Professional is the intermediate package that adds advanced features and tools, such as photo-realistic rendering, cost estimation, eDrawings Professional, SOLIDWORKS Visualize Standard, and SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard. SolidWorks 2018 Premium is the most comprehensive package that includes everything in the Professional package plus additional capabilities for simulation, motion analysis, routing, electrical wiring, and piping and tubing design.
Q: How can I learn SolidWorks 2018?
A: There are many resources and courses available online and offline that can help you learn SolidWorks 2018. Some of the best ones are:
SolidWorks 2018 Tutorial: A comprehensive and easy-to-follow tutorial that covers the basics and advanced topics of SolidWorks 2018, such as sketching, modeling, assembly, drawing, simulation, rendering, and animation.
SolidWorks 2018 Essential Training: A video course that teaches you how to use SolidWorks 2018 for 3D design and engineering. It includes practical exercises and projects that help you apply what you learn.
SolidWorks 2018 Certification: A certification program that validates your skills and knowledge in using SolidWorks 2018. It offers various levels of certification, such as Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate (CSWA), Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional (CSWP), and Certified SOLIDWORKS Expert (CSWE).
Q: Where can I download SolidWorks 2018?
A: You can download SolidWorks 2018 from the official website of Dassault Systèmes. You will need to create an account and provide some information about yourself and your purpose of using the software. You will also need to agree to the terms and conditions of the license agreement. You can choose to download the full installation file or the web installation file, which will download the required files as you install the software. dcd2dc6462