Complete Uninstall of SOLIDWORKS

Sometimes you may need to completely uninstall SOLIDWORKS, including all Program Files and Registry Keys.  Perhaps the computer will be used by someone else who doesn’t use SOLIDWORKS and you need to free up some hard drive space.  This can also be required if the original installation was performed without following best practices.

IMPORTANT: If you don’t plan on reinstalling SOLIDWORKS on the same computer again, ensure that you transfer the SOLIDWORKS license to free up the activation.

IMPORTANT: Backup all custom templates, material databases, Toolbox databases, etc.

Before uninstalling SOLIDWORKS be sure to log in as the LOCAL Windows administrator account.

Choosing to Uninstall SOLIDWORKS from the Windows Control Panel will bring up the Installation Manager:

Under “Advanced Options” you can choose an Uninstall Method.  Click “Change” to edit these options.  You have the choice of removing Program Files and Folders, Registry Entries, Data Files and Folders, and Download Files and Folders.  A list of locations that will be removed is given.  With everything selected, this will remove much more that just the standard program files.  Though be aware this may also remove any custom settings and templates stored in the default locations.

NOTE: If your original installation was corrupted due to improper permissions, bad registry keys, unregistered DLLs, etc., we’d recommend following our Clean Uninstall & Reinstall Guide to ensure absolutely everything is removed.  This will also include the removal of the Microsoft prerequisite programs that are automatically reinstalled with SOLIDWORKS, as these programs can become corrupt themselves

IMPORTANT: Before reinstalling SOLIDWORKS check out or latest post on how to install SOLIDWORKS