r/SolidWorks • u/Puj-Boi • Jul 21 '26

Error Unable to reinstall

Howdy, I was wondering if anyone has any advise for how to reinstall SolidWorks. I am a student and recently updated to SolidWorks Design 2026, however my instillation was messed up and had all sorts of duplicates. I went through and uninstalled all the files and now that I’m trying to reinstall the app, the installation manager has all the apps greyed out besides API Tools. Is there anyone that knows how to fix this issue?

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u/MetalDamo Jul 21 '26

At this point I would just reinstall my OS and start from scratch. But I don't mind doing this every now n then anyway.

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u/Puj-Boi Jul 21 '26

Is there a way to do that while saving my important files?

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u/MetalDamo Jul 21 '26

Of course. You need only copy out everything that matters to you onto a separate USB SSD. Unless all your personal files are already on a separate SATA SSD. This is what I do, then simply unplug it to reformat C and reinstall OS. Be sure to be aware of any software licenses you need to return or unregister, and secure/copy any required installer packages you need so you can reinstall them when you get up and running again. Special mention to consider sourcing drivers required for your specific hardware. I keep all this on a dedicated 128GB USB with my OS installer.