Troubleshooting Guide: SolidWorks 2020 Error -8 544 0- (Invalid License Key)
Overview
When attempting to start SolidWorks 2020, you may encounter a dialog box stating: "Invalid (inconsistent) license key (-8 544 0-)."
Error Analysis
, and follow the prompts. This clears the "bad" key information. Reactivate again and select Activate/Reactivate your product license(s) . Complete the activation process. on the Server Administration tab to restart the service. Hawk Ridge Systems For Standalone Licenses Refresh Activation : Open SOLIDWORKS (if possible), go to the menu, and select Activate Licenses
- Open Control Panel > Programs and Features.
- Uninstall anything named "SolidWorks Licensing Service" or "FlexNet Licensing Service 64".
- Restart your computer.
The error "Invalid (inconsistent) license key (-8, 544, 0)" in SOLIDWORKS 2020 typically occurs when the client machine cannot properly communicate with the SolidNetWork License (SNL) Manager or when the subscription data on the server is outdated. This "Bad key information" indicates that while a license may exist, its current state or activation date does not match the software's requirements. Primary Causes of Error -8, 544, 0
Stale Activation: The server’s activation data has become corrupted or needs a "refresh" to acknowledge current entitlement dates. How to Fix It
Subscription Issues: If your company's active subscription has expired, you may lose access to specific products like SOLIDWORKS CAM.