Can’t Open SolidWorks Files from Windows Explorer? Here’s How to Fix It
SolidWorks is a powerful 3D CAD software widely used for engineering and design purposes. However, many users have reported encountering the issue of not being able to open SolidWorks files directly from Windows Explorer. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on how to troubleshoot and resolve this problem.
1. Check File Extension Association
One of the primary reasons for not being able to open SolidWorks files from Windows Explorer is the incorrect file extension association. Follow these steps to check and correct the association:
a. Right-click on the SolidWorks file you are trying to open and select “Open with.”
b. If SolidWorks is not listed, click on “Choose another app” and navigate to the SolidWorks installation directory.
c. Find the SolidWorks executable file (usually “SolidWorks.exe”) and select it.
d. Check the box that says “Always use this app to open .sldprt files” (or the specific file extension of your SolidWorks file).
e. Click “OK” to save the changes.
2. Verify SolidWorks Installation
If the file extension association is correct, but you still can’t open SolidWorks files, it might be due to an incomplete or corrupted SolidWorks installation. Here’s how to verify and fix the issue:
a. Open the SolidWorks installation directory (usually found at C:\Program Files\SolidWorks\SolidWorks [version]\SolidWorks).
b. Look for the “SolidWorks.exe” file and right-click on it.
c. Select “Run as administrator.”
d. If prompted, allow the program to make changes to your computer.
e. If the issue persists, try repairing your SolidWorks installation by running the SolidWorks Installation Manager and selecting the “Repair” option.
3. Update SolidWorks and Windows
Outdated versions of SolidWorks or Windows can lead to compatibility issues and file opening problems. Make sure you have the latest updates for both:
a. SolidWorks: Visit the SolidWorks website and check for any available updates. If updates are available, download and install them.
b. Windows: Open the Settings app, go to Update & Security, and click on “Check for updates.” Install any available updates to keep your Windows system up to date.
4. Check Antivirus Software
Antivirus software can sometimes interfere with file opening and access. If you have an antivirus program installed, check if it’s blocking SolidWorks files:
a. Temporarily disable your antivirus software and try opening the SolidWorks file again.
b. If the file opens successfully, add SolidWorks to the antivirus software’s exception list to prevent future issues.
5. Clean Boot Your Computer
A clean boot helps isolate the issue by temporarily disabling unnecessary startup programs and services. Here’s how to perform a clean boot:
a. Press “Windows + R” to open the Run dialog box.
b. Type “msconfig” and press “Enter.”
c. Go to the “Services” tab and check the box that says “Hide all Microsoft services.”
d. Click on “Disable all” to disable all non-Microsoft services.
e. Go to the “Startup” tab and click on “Open Task Manager.”
f. Disable all startup programs by right-clicking on each one and selecting “Disable.”
g. Close Task Manager and click “OK” in the System Configuration window.
h. Restart your computer and try opening the SolidWorks file again.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue of not being able to open SolidWorks files from Windows Explorer. If the problem persists, consider seeking assistance from SolidWorks support or consulting with a professional.
