ZW3D is a powerful CAD/CAM solution widely used in design, engineering, and manufacturing industries. For companies that use network licenses, managing access to these licenses efficiently is crucial to maintain productivity across multiple users and locations.
This guide will explain how to borrow a ZW3D network license, detailing the prerequisites, practical steps, and returning the license methods. By following this process, users can ensure uninterrupted access to ZW3D, maintain workflow continuity, and maximize the flexibility of their design and engineering tasks.
Borrowing a ZW3D network license is generally necessary only when you are using a floating license but the computer cannot temporarily connect to the license server. This situation commonly occurs when a laptop needs to be taken out of the office, such as during travel or remote work, and there is no VPN or local network connection to the license server. It may also be needed in office environments where the network is unstable, as borrowing a license ensures that ZW3D continues to function without interruption even if the connection to the server is lost.
It is also useful when temporarily working on client sites, construction sites, or other locations where connecting to the company’s license server is not feasible.
The prerequisite for using this feature is that your company has purchased a network license and deployed it on the server. Once set up, the client computer can use the “Borrow” function to temporarily reserve a license for offline use within a specified period.
This feature ensures uninterrupted access to ZW3D and supports flexible work arrangements, allowing users to maintain productivity while working remotely or on the go.
To better understand this feature, it is helpful to distinguish between a floating license and a borrowed license.
A floating license normally resides on a license server and can be shared by multiple users within a network, while a borrowed license temporarily transfers that license from the server to a specific computer for offline use.
| Feature | Floating License | Borrowed License |
|---|---|---|
| License location | Stored on the license server | Temporarily stored on the local computer |
| Network requirement | Requires connection to the server | Can be used offline |
| Usage mode | Shared dynamically among users | Locked to one computer for a limited time |
| Typical scenario | Office environment with stable network | Travel, remote work, or field usage |
This feature is designed to ensure uninterrupted access when your computer cannot connect directly to the license server. Before you proceed, make sure that you have already obtained a floating license from your company and that the license server is properly deployed. Follow the steps below to complete the process smoothly and maintain uninterrupted workflow.
Step 1: Open License Manager.
Step 2: Click Activate License.
Step 3: Click Borrow a License, then enter the Server Name/IP and Port, select the desired validity period, and click Activate.
Server Name/IP: Enter the computer name or IP address of the network license server.
Port: Optional. If left empty, the default port range is 27000–27009. It can be modified to other values if needed.
You may need to return a borrowed ZW3D license when you no longer need to use the software on your current device, when you are switching to another computer, or when the borrowed license period is about to expire and you want to make it available for others. Returning the license in time helps ensure efficient license management and avoids unnecessary occupation of limited network resources.
Follow the steps below to deactivate your license.
Step 1: Open License Manager.
Step 2: Click the Return icon to deactivate the license you want to exit.
Step 3: Confirm and click Return.
Step 4: Once the process is complete, the message “Return Completed” will appear. Click Done to finish.
Borrowing a ZW3D network license is an essential feature for users who need to work offline or in environments where direct connection to the license server is not possible. By understanding when to borrow a license, following the correct step-by-step procedure, and returning the license on time, users can ensure uninterrupted access to ZW3D while maintaining workflow continuity. This process not only supports remote work, travel, and on-site assignments but also maximizes the flexibility and efficiency of design and engineering tasks.
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