Failed to Obtain Computer Identifier in SOLIDWORKS

When you launch SolidWorks, are you getting the error “Failed to obtain a computer identifier…”? Then follow the steps below!

This Computer Identifier error message is generated by the FlexNet licensing system that SOLIDWORKS uses to identify computers. When you activate SOLIDWORKS, it “fingerprints” your computer based on several hardware components such as your hard drive, network adapter, motherboard, and CPU. It then creates a unique identifier known as the Computer Identifier.

If SOLIDWORKS can’t create a computer identifier during activation, you’ll receive that error, shown below:

This error messages means one of 3 things has happened:

1. The FlexNet Licensing Service is not running
2. SolidWorks needs a repair due to a missing or corrupt file
3. A hardware component needed to create a Computer Identifier has failed or is missing.

1. Check the FlexNet Licensing Service and Service 64 are BOTH running.

• In Windows, type “Services” into the Windows Search and launch the Services App.

• Scroll until you find the FlexNet Licensing Service and FlexNet Licensing Service 64.
  Make sure they both say “Running” under the Status column.

• If there is nothing in the Status column, then right-click on FlexNet Licensing Service and FlexNet Licensing Service 64 and click “Start”.

• Try to launch SolidWorks and see if it is able to create an identifier. If it launches without issue, then you’re all set! If it still throws the “Failed to obtain a computer identifier…” error, proceed to #2 below.

2. Running a SolidWorks Repair

• To run a SolidWorks Repair, go to the Add/Remove Programs function in Windows.

• Scroll down to SolidWorks, click the 3 dots and select “Modify”.

• Once the Installation Manager launches, select “Repair your Installation”.

• Follow the prompts to run a SolidWorks Repair.

• Try to launch SolidWorks and see if it is able to create an identifier. If it launches without issue, then you’re all set! If it still throws the “Failed to obtain a computer identifier…” error, proceed to #3 below.

3. Check for failed or missing hardware components

• The FlexNet Licensing service primarily uses the operating system, hard drive, network adapter, motherboard, and CPU to create a Computer Identifier, along with other system components. If there is a failing or missing component or the driver for a component has failed, then the FlexNet Licensing Service will not be able to create a unique Computer Identifier.

• To check your system components, search for “System Information” in Windows.

• In the System Information window, select Components and then Problem Devices. Any devices that show up on the right side of the screen should be investigated for faults or faulty drivers.

• Once you replace, repair, or upload a new driver to the affected devices, SolidWorks should be able to create a computer identifier now.

To learn more about SOLIDWORKS, check out our training opportunities here.