License not returned to server

🛠️ SolidWorks License Management: Return to Server Problem

This document presents an analysis of a common symptom related to SolidWorks license management via a floating license server, as well as the probable cause and recommended solution.

Symptom

The SolidWorks license is not released and returned to the server after the application is closed.

Even after restarting the client workstation, the license seat remains marked as "in use" on the server, preventing another user from acquiring it immediately.

Possible cause

The malfunction is generally linked to a breakdown in network communication on the client workstation while the software is running, creating an "orphan" session from the license server's point of view.

This typically occurs when :

• SolidWorks software was launched via an initial network interface (e.g. wired (Ethernet)).

• The user then changed network interface (e.g. to Wi-Fi or vice versa) without first closing SolidWorks.

This change of IP address or active interface interrupts the keep-alive dialog between client and server, but the server does not register the normal program shutdown.

Recommended solution

The simplest and least intrusive solution is to wait for the default timeout configured on the license server (SolidNetWork License Manager) to expire.

1. Do not run the SolidWorks application on the client workstation concerned.

2. Wait for the timeout period to be reached. By default, this timeout is often set at 2 hours.

Once the timeout has elapsed, the license server automatically recognizes that the client is no longer able to respond and releases (purges) the license seat, making it available for other users.

Preventive note

To avoid this type of incident in the future, we strongly recommend that users always close the SolidWorks application before switching from a wired to a wireless connection, or vice versa.