Problem

This guide is written for users of Enterprise DraftSight. The goal of this guide is to ensure that the reader is able to successfully install the Enterprise DraftSight for a client connected to a SolidNetWork License Server (SNL).

Before installing DraftSight, please be sure to uninstall a previously installed version of DraftSight.

Solution Step 1: DraftSight Online Download

The DraftSight installation files can be downloaded before installation.

1. Download the appropriate version of DraftSight to your desktop from the download page by clicking here. Make sure to select the button for the correct operating system on the download page.
2. Choose Accept to consent to the License Agreement.

Solution Step 2: Before Installing DraftSight

Several things will need to be taken care of before the installation of DraftSight can take place:

1. Uninstall your previously installed version of DraftSight. You will not be able to install a purchased version of DraftSight without uninstalling your previously installed DraftSight.
2. Check hardware compatibility. 
   • You can find the latest version of compatible hardware for Draftsight on the Latest release webpage. Select the 'Download Media' option to view the System Requirements. 
3. Check the hard drive for space and overhead. 
   • In the Windows Explorer, go to My Computer and check the destination drive (by default, the C drive). Right-click this drive and choose Properties to see that it has the minimum free space for the full program.
4. Activate your DraftSight license by adding your DraftSight serial to an existing SolidNetwork License Manager (SNL) server using the instructions in the article below. 
   • Adding Additional Serial Numbers to an Existing SOLIDWORKS License Server (Versions 2023 and Newer) – Hawk Ridge Systems 
   • If you do not have an already existing SNL server, install the SNL server using the article below. 
     How To Install The SolidNetWork License Manager (SNL) Server – Hawk Ridge Systems

Once these items have been taken care of, the installation can begin.

Solution Step 3: Installation of DraftSight Network license

Note: The SNL server needs to be the same or higher version than the DraftSight client. For instance, if the SNL server is version 2026, your DraftSight year version will need to be 2026 or older.

1. Make sure you are logged in as the administrator.
2. Disable all anti-virus and anti-spyware tools.
3. Double-click the downloaded DraftSight64 application in your saved location.
4. The DraftSight Installation Wizard window will appear. The Installation wizard will welcome you to DraftSight and ask which type of installation you would like to perform. For network install using the SolidNetwork License, pick the option SolidNetwork License (SNL). Press the Next button to continue.
5. You will be asked to specify the SNL location. This is where your SolidNetWork License Administrator is loaded and running. The default port number for this is 25734. Type “25734@<server name>” and press Next to continue.
6. After, you will be asked to accept the License Agreement. Choose I accept the terms in the license agreement and press Install.
7. Now DraftSight will install.
8. Press the Finish button to complete the installation.
9. Now the software is loaded on the system and ready for use. 

For further technical support, please contact Hawk Ridge Systems at 877.266.4469 for the U.S. or 866.587.6803 for Canada and support@hawkridgesys.com.