Blog: BORIS for SolidWorks - Secure Your CAD Designs

Best Practices for Securing SolidWorks Files | SolidWorks | Register and Certify IP of CAD design

2026-03-15 07:53 Guides
TL;DR: Protecting SolidWorks Designs Saves Time and Money

Stop losing control of your CAD files. European design teams face steep challenges with IP theft and unauthorized sharing. Solutions include file encryption, PDM tools, and blockchain plugins like BORIS in SolidWorks to certify ownership and secure collaborations. These steps help codify intellectual property, prevent design leaks, and reduce legal risks.

🔒 Learn about keeping your files safe with this Enterprise Guide to SolidWorks Security, and secure your team's designs with confidence today.

Best Practices for Securing SolidWorks Files

How often do you consider the security risks involved when designing and sharing CAD files? The growing dependency on digital collaboration, particularly in the manufacturing and design sectors, has raised an urgent need for ensuring intellectual property protection while optimizing workflows. SolidWorks users, especially in Europe, encounter increasing challenges in maintaining control and ownership of their files. Here's how to address it effectively.
Securing SolidWorks files begins with recognizing the multifaceted nature of security issues in the CAD space. From unintended file sharing to deliberate intellectual property theft, threats come in many forms. But the solution doesn’t have to be overly complex. SolidWorks, paired with effective strategies and tools, offers the technical foundation you need to safeguard your designs and data.
"More than 60% of companies operating in the EU report difficulties managing CAD file security during cross-border collaborations due to insufficient integration of modern security protocols."
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Why SolidWorks File Security Matters for IP Protection

In the European Union, intellectual property regulations offer substantial protections, but enforcing them requires robust evidence. When SolidWorks files leak outside authorized channels, the challenge lies in proving authorship, ownership, and intent. Enterprises risk losing million-euro contracts or even facing litigation without having clearly established IP ownership protocols.
To mitigate these risks, integrating digital rights management (DRM) methodologies like encryption, blockchain registration for design authorship, and secure collaboration tools is critical. CADChain’s BORIS plugin works seamlessly within SolidWorks environments, addressing these vulnerabilities by embedding file-level security and providing blockchain-certified ownership records.

Seven Best Practices for SolidWorks File Security

  • 1. Enable Password Protection: As a basic precaution, protect exported files (e.g., PDFs and DWGs) with passwords. SolidWorks allows you to set file-opening passwords directly during saving.
  • 2. Use Secure File Versions: Consistently update to secure versions of SolidWorks and verify plugin safety ratings. A compromised plugin can open doors for cyber-attacks.
  • 3. Employ Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Limit permissions based on user roles. For instance, junior designers might only have view access instead of edit access.
  • 4. Optimize File Encryption: Leverage encryption tools specifically designed for CAD files, ensuring that any unpacking or sharing retains safety measures.
  • 5. Use Dedicated Product Data Management (PDM): A SolidWorks PDM solution safeguards files by tracking edits, versions, and transfers, all from one secured interface.
  • 6. Employ Blockchain Certificates: Tools like BORIS enable blockchain-authenticated file ownership and usage tracking for SolidWorks files.
  • 7. Implement a Secure Collaboration Hub: Sharing CAD files externally is risky without protective tools. SolidWorks-supported tools that encrypt files during transfer minimize threats.

How to Implement Security: A Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Audit Your CAD Software Environment: Conduct regular compliance and security assessments. Check plugin consistency and licensing validity.
  2. Enable Real-Time File Tracking: Use PDM tools integrated into SolidWorks environments to trace file changes and access.
  3. Integrate Blockchain Plugins: Introduce BORIS into your operations for proof-of-ownership certifications.
  4. Train Your Team: Conduct workshops or online training sessions to familiarize staff with security settings in SolidWorks.
  5. Establish Emergency Protocols: Prepare file rollback, backup, and revocation processes for worst-case scenarios.

Common Mistakes Putting SolidWorks Files at Risk

1. Relying Solely on Passwords , Passwords provide some security but are insufficient against modern threats. Always combine them with encryption and blockchain certification.
2. Using Outdated Plugins , Legacy SolidWorks plugins often lack essential cybersecurity safeguards. Always validate compatibility and safety before upgrading.
3. Lack of Access Management , Unlimited file accessibility by all staff increases risks. Without defined access roles, files may end up in unauthorized hands.
4. Missing File Tracking , Failure to employ version control systems within PDM leaves errors within projects undetected and unresolved.
5. Neglecting Collaboration Security , Sharing files over unsecured email services is a major threat to intellectual property, particularly for cross-border projects in Europe.
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Expert Tips from Violetta and Dirk-Jan Bonenkamp

Violetta Bonenkamp, a pioneer in blockchain-backed IP protection, stresses the importance of combining legal controls with technical barriers. "Encrypt everything, assign strict access roles, and document every file event via blockchain," she advises.
Dirk-Jan Bonenkamp adds, "Treat CAD files like trade secrets. Using tools like BORIS for blockchain proofs of authorship ensures enforceable ownership while simplifying IP disputes across diverse jurisdictions."

Conclusion: Data Security Means Profit and Sustainability

SolidWorks users in Europe, particularly SMEs and startups, face increasing scrutiny regarding patent documentation, regulatory compliance, and file security. Implementing tools like blockchain certificates and PDM systems not only protects intellectual property but also streamlines collaboration, minimizes risks, and boosts overall productivity.
The future shines brighter for organizations ready to take proactive security measures. If you're a SolidWorks user, now is the right time to implement safeguards with tools such as BORIS to lock down your files confidently.
Next, explore the technology stack for CAD security, diving deeper into frameworks and strategies designed for the distributed design ecosystems of tomorrow.

People Also Ask:

How do I lock SOLIDWORKS files?

To lock SOLIDWORKS files, you can use the 'Lifecycle' tab in the SOLIDWORKS Side Panel. Navigate to 'My Session,' where open files are listed, select the object or file you want to lock, and click the 'Lock' option from the action bar under 'Lifecycle.' This prevents unauthorized edits or changes to the file.

What are two ways of ensuring that CAD files are correctly and securely stored?

To securely store CAD files, consider exporting drawings as password-protected PDFs or compress files into a password-protected Zip folder. Additionally, third-party tools like HALOCAD or enterprise-level security software can add an extra layer of protection.

Where should I save SOLIDWORKS files?

SOLIDWORKS files can be saved locally using the 'Save to This PC' command or to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. The latter allows for cloud storage, offering flexibility and collaboration. Use the 'Save As New' dialog box to manage file versions and ensure proper organization.

How do I keep my files secure?

Secure files by encrypting them, creating unique and strong passwords, and monitoring permissions for files shared in cloud applications. Regular software updates and using a password manager can help maintain security across devices and platforms effectively.

What are the best practices for data management of SOLIDWORKS files?

For effective data management, utilize SOLIDWORKS PDM to establish role-based access controls and file archiving standards. Regularly back up files to secure servers and use version control systems to track edits and prevent data loss.

Can I restrict editing access to shared files?

Yes, shared SOLIDWORKS files can have restricted editing access using platforms like Dropbox or cloud solutions by implementing permissions. Lock files using SOLIDWORKS' built-in features or store them in secure folders with controlled access.

What are the benefits of using SOLIDWORKS PDM for securing files?

SOLIDWORKS PDM provides benefits like centralized file storage, access control, and file version tracking. It reduces risks of loss or unauthorized changes by implementing permissions while streamlining collaboration between users.

Should I use encryption to protect SOLIDWORKS files?

Encryption is a strong method to protect sensitive SOLIDWORKS files. Tools like HALOCAD and digital rights management solutions can encrypt your files, ensuring that unauthorized users cannot access critical CAD designs.

How do I back up SOLIDWORKS files regularly?

Schedule regular backups to local drives and cloud platforms like 3DEXPERIENCE. Use automated backup tools for added reliability and configure them to retain past versions for recovery in case of errors or corruption.

Why is protecting CAD data important for businesses in 2026?

Protecting CAD data is critical to prevent intellectual property theft, file corruption, or unauthorized modifications, which could impact project timelines and costs. As businesses increasingly rely on digital models, robust data security ensures continued trust and compliance with industry standards.

FAQ on Securing SolidWorks Files and Protecting Intellectual Property

What are the key threats to SolidWorks file security?

Key threats include unauthorized access due to weak password policies, intellectual property theft during cross-border collaboration, and vulnerabilities in outdated software versions. Implementing encryption, real-time tracking, and strict access controls is vital to mitigate these risks.

How does blockchain-based file ownership work?

Blockchain tools like BORIS create immutable ownership records by securely tracking design authorship. These digital certificates enable users to prove intellectual property rights, simplifying legal disputes and enhancing file-level security.

Do AI-powered tools enhance SolidWorks security?

AI-powered tools detect anomalies, improve threat analysis, and automate encryption workflows. By learning from usage patterns, they predict and prevent potential breaches, making collaboration more secure.

Why is encryption necessary for SolidWorks files?

Encryption ensures that even if files are intercepted, their contents remain inaccessible without proper decryption keys. This safeguards sensitive models and minimizes risks during file sharing, especially over unsecured networks.

What is role-based access control (RBAC) and why use it?

RBAC limits file access based on user roles, ensuring only authorized personnel can view or modify specific designs. For example, junior staff may require view-only rights. This minimizes unauthorized sharing or accidental changes.

How can outdated plugins compromise file security?

Outdated plugins may lack essential cybersecurity updates, creating vulnerabilities hackers exploit. Always monitor plugin compatibility and upgrade to secure versions for enhanced protection.

What systems protect intellectual property in SolidWorks workflows?

Product Data Management (PDM) and blockchain-enhanced systems manage file access, track changes, and ensure design ownership integrity. These systems streamline collaboration while providing legal proof in case of IP disputes.

How do secure collaboration tools improve file sharing?

Secure collaboration tools encrypt files during transfers and let you revoke access remotely. Features like expiration links and detailed usage logs ensure SolidWorks files are shared safely within external teams.

Are regulatory frameworks relevant to CAD file security?

Yes, regulations like GDPR and CMMC mandate strict data protection for managing personal and proprietary information. Adhering to these frameworks prevents penalties and boosts trust in collaborative partnerships.

Should SolidWorks files be backed up regularly?

Regular backups protect against accidental deletions or cyber-attacks. Use solutions that offer version control to track design edits over time. This ensures quicker recovery and continuity in your design workflows.