(specifically versions 3.5 and 4.0 for the 2012 release).
Necessary program files may lose their registration status within the Windows operating system.
SolidWorks 2012 was designed for older operating systems like Windows 7. If you are running it on a newer OS, compatibility issues can prevent libraries from loading. error cannot initialize library solidworks 2012
The error often occurs when the system cannot find or initialize critical dynamic link library (DLL) files, such as or the DLLs responsible for the SolidWorks Document Manager Google Groups : Manually re-register the problematic DLL using the Command Prompt as an administrator. Use the command regsvr32 [filename].dll
Right-click the shortcut icon on your desktop. Select Run as administrator . (specifically versions 3
A large majority of initialization and crashing errors are resolved by resetting the SOLIDWORKS user settings in the Windows Registry. This forces the software to generate fresh, default settings.
: Specific Windows updates (like KB4048955) have been known to automatically change compatibility settings, which can break SOLIDWORKS initialization. Google Groups Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Disable Compatibility Mode Right-click your SOLIDWORKS desktop shortcut and select Properties Compatibility Ensure that "Run this program in compatibility mode for" is , as this frequently causes initialization failures. Reset the Registry (Registry Editor) from the Start menu. Navigate to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\SolidWorks Rename the folder for your version (e.g., SOLIDWORKS 2012 SOLIDWORKS 2012 OLD Relaunch SOLIDWORKS to let it rebuild fresh registry keys. Repair the Installation Control Panel > Programs and Features Select SOLIDWORKS and click , then choose the Repair your installation Verify Activation Files If you are running it on a newer
If you are short on time, run through these solutions in order of statistical success:
Download and install the Microsoft Visual C++ 2005, 2008, and 2010 Redistributable packages (both x86 and x64 versions) from the official Microsoft site. 4. Remove and Re-activate License (If Applicable) If the software opens but fails to activate: Open SOLIDWORKS. Go to the menu and select Activate Licenses .
Press . A message should confirm the registration was successful. 3. Repair the Installation