Previously, I had a student version which expired (2025 SP0). The software would never let me renew the license, so I downloaded a new student version (2025 SP5). It downloaded and installed ok - I thought.

I got the serial number in an email from SW, and activated it online, but the software still thinks that I am running the old version, or the old serial number. The .exe file and date suggests that I am running the new version (2025 SP5).

Just as before, the SW software won't let me activate through their tools, and it won't run. It says that the serial number has expired.

I have tried many times to activate the SW software with an email request to activation@solidworks.com, but I have gotten no response. So, I am coming to this forum.

I still have the installation file that I downloaded. Can I uninstall the version that I have (whether it's old or new or who knows), and start with a clean installation?  If I do this, will it work with the serial number that I have already paid for and registered?

Thanks for your help.