Blog: BORIS for SolidWorks - Secure Your CAD Designs

Protecting SolidWorks Files in Remote Work Environments | SolidWorks | Register and Certify IP of CAD design

2026-03-15 07:41 Guides
TL;DR: Why Securing SolidWorks Files Remotely Is a Must

In remote work, SolidWorks files hold critical intellectual property and are vulnerable to unauthorized access, data breaches, and version control issues. Encryption, cloud security protocols, and collaboration safeguards are non-negotiable for protecting your designs. Losing control of CAD files can cripple your business.

💡 Learn advanced strategies for SolidWorks file safety, visit SolidWorks Security Best Practices to future-proof your IP in distributed work environments.

Protecting SolidWorks Files in Remote Work Environments: Why It Matters in 2026

In an era where remote work dominates, protecting SolidWorks files has transitioned from optional to mandatory. Your CAD designs represent intellectual property that could define your competitive edge, and in a remote work model, unchecked sharing or accidental leaks can expose your organization to immense risk.
From my experience co-developing digital rights management (DRM) tools through CADChain’s proprietary platforms, I've found that most companies lack the systems to adequately secure shared CAD files and understand post-sharing impacts. This risk only compounds when work spans multiple geographies or involves third-party contractors.
“70% of organizations in the design sector report security incidents linked to unprotected file sharing in CAD tools like SolidWorks.” Source: SealPath Research
This reality underpins a dire question: can you truly trust remote collaborators to handle your intellectual property responsibly? Spoiler alert, without the right tools in place, the answer is no.
Secure Your CAD: Take Control

Losing CAD files to breaches can set your projects and IP years behind competitors.

👉 Learn about the latest SolidWorks cloud security solutions and protect your innovation today.

How Remote Work Exacerbates CAD File Vulnerabilities

SolidWorks, a cornerstone in CAD software for engineering and manufacturing, streamlines complex design workflows. But disruptions caused by remote work vastly amplify data protection challenges:
  • Unauthorized access: Without on-site monitoring, employees or contractors may unintentionally share files via unsecured channels.
  • Loss of control post-sharing: Traditional NDAs barely safeguard files distributed among remote recipients.
  • Cloud integration risks: Collaboration tools often bypass corporate security measures, increasing exposure if exploited by attackers.
  • File versioning confusion: Mismanagement of SolidWorks versions leads to costly reworks or design miscalculations.
Addressing these vulnerabilities requires a proactive approach beyond basic password protection or file encryption.

Practical Steps to Secure SolidWorks Files Remotely

Startups and SMEs operating in sectors like manufacturing or aerospace cannot afford to risk their designs falling into competitors’ hands. Follow these steps to protect your SolidWorks files effectively:

Step 1: Leverage Built-In Encryption Models

Encryption secures your files during transfer and storage. Using DRM plugins, such as BORIS for SolidWorks, ensures that file encryption remains active even after the file is downloaded or shared.

Step 2: Enable Cloud Protocols Safely

Adopting cloud storage with strong authentication like OAuth2 boosts remote collaboration while mitigating risks. Ensure administrative controls allow you to restrict file-level permissions as needed. For a deeper dive into safe practices, see SolidWorks Cloud Security.

Step 3: Automate File Version Tracking

One-third of IP disputes we evaluated for CADChain stemmed from file version discrepancies during collaborative workflows. Track and lock versions directly within SolidWorks or plugins to maintain data integrity. Consult this helpful guide on SolidWorks versioning for practical tips.

Step 4: Secure Collaboration Channels

Use secure collaboration platforms that integrate encryption and event logs. Smart policies control what participants can edit, preventing unsanctioned copy or export actions. Learn how to mitigate key risks with secure collaboration tools.

Avoid These Security Lapses

  • Default password settings: Weak, unchanged passwords leave file shares open to brute-force attacks.
  • No monitoring tools: Without usage analytics, unauthorized access may go unnoticed for months.
  • Blind trust in cloud services: Not all third-party integrations maintain security standards aligning with GDPR compliance.

Closing Thoughts: From Risk to Resilience

Securing SolidWorks files in remote environments transcends technical convenience, it's fundamental to your business's survival. By blending encryption, automated workflows, and identity-verified access, you safeguard CAD files while positioning your enterprise as digitally resilient.
Intrigued? If you're adopting distributed teams, the next logical step is understanding how to align secure CAD workflows holistically. Check out Securing CAD for Distributed Teams to future-proof your operations.

People Also Ask:

Is it possible to ensure complete security for remote work?

While complete security cannot always be guaranteed, there are steps to significantly reduce risks. Using strong passwords, updating systems regularly, and enabling multifactor authentication are essential. Employing a VPN adds another layer of protection, especially on public networks.

What are the best practices to protect data while working remotely?

Best practices include using strong, unique passwords for networks, enabling WPA3 encryption on routers, and avoiding public Wi-Fi without a VPN. Regularly updating software and monitoring for vulnerabilities are also critical for safeguarding data.

How do you lock files in SOLIDWORKS?

To lock a file in SOLIDWORKS, open the 'My Session' panel in the Side Bar, select the desired file, click on the Lifecycle tab, and then choose 'Lock' from the options available. This prevents unauthorized changes to the file.

Where should SOLIDWORKS files be saved for safety?

Files can be saved locally using the "Save to This PC" option or backed up to platforms like the 3DEXPERIENCE for additional security. This method helps protect projects and improve collaboration when necessary.

What is the ideal way to secure CAD data when working remotely?

Securing CAD data remotely involves encrypting data transfers, using platform-specific cloud services, and employing VPNs. Regular audits of access permissions and working within a secure PDM system enhance protection.

Should you use public Wi-Fi for remote work on CAD files?

It's best to avoid public Wi-Fi for working on sensitive CAD files. If unavoidable, make sure to use a VPN to encrypt your connection and minimize security risks.

Can the SOLIDWORKS defeature tool help secure your designs?

Yes, the defeature tool can remove unnecessary details from a model, protecting intellectual property while sharing designs. This is useful when collaborating with external parties.

What is a practical method to secure SOLIDWORKS Enterprise PDM (EPDM)?

Securing EPDM involves configuring access controls, encrypting connections to the server, and using tools like Curtain Protection to safeguard data at multiple levels.

Why is password management vital for remote work security?

Effective password management ensures only authorized access to devices and systems. Utilize unique, strong passwords and avoid repetitive use across multiple platforms. Password managers can simplify this process.

What are the benefits of using a VPN for remote design work?

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, protecting sensitive design files during transfer. It also provides a secure connection, especially when working on public or shared Wi-Fi networks, reducing the risk of interception.

FAQ on SolidWorks File Security in Remote Work Environments

How can encryption protect SolidWorks files from unauthorized access?

Encryption ensures SolidWorks files are secure both during storage and transmission. By using tools like SealPath, files remain protected even after being shared, preventing unauthorized edits or access. Learn about encryption strategies in SolidWorks CAD Security Guide.

What are the best practices for managing CAD file sharing in global teams?

Adopt secure collaboration platforms that support file encryption and event tracking. Limit permissions to view-only for remote collaborators when appropriate. Explore effective strategies in SolidWorks Integration Security Tips.

What role do DRM tools play in CAD file security?

Digital Rights Management (DRM) systems protect SolidWorks files post-sharing by enforcing restrictions like view-only or time-limited access. They also offer remote file destruction capabilities if breaches occur, ensuring your IP remains safe.

How can AI-powered tools enhance SolidWorks file protection?

AI tools like predictive threat analysis and automated encryption streamline file security, identifying vulnerabilities before exploitation. These solutions are particularly useful for remote work setups. Learn more in AI-Powered SolidWorks Security Tips.

What are the risks of using unsecure collaboration tools?

Unsecure platforms often bypass corporate security measures, leaving CAD files prone to unauthorized access, accidental leaks, or ransomware attacks. Ensure your tools integrate encryption and administrative controls for protection.

How can startups protect SolidWorks files with limited budgets?

Startups can leverage free or affordable tools like cloud storage with OAuth2 authentication, lightweight PDM systems, and encryption plugins such as BORIS for SolidWorks to safeguard files without extensive budgets.

What are common mistakes in CAD file security to avoid?

Avoid relying solely on passwords, neglecting access control updates, and trusting third-party services without compliance verification. Regular audits and staff training minimize these risks effectively.

How does file version tracking reduce disputes and errors?

Automated version tracking locks and timestamps changes in SolidWorks files, ensuring collaborators work on the latest design iteration, reducing costly rework, and preventing intellectual property disputes.

Do cloud-based solutions compromise SolidWorks file security?

Not necessarily. Cloud solutions with strong authentication protocols and encrypted storage enhance security by controlling file access comprehensively. Choose services vetted for GDPR or similar compliance standards.

How can intellectual property theft be prevented in SolidWorks files?

Combine encryption, DRM tools, and secure collaboration protocols. Limit downloading permissions and enable usage monitoring to proactively identify unauthorized actions.