SolidWorks 2012 cannot read files from versions newer than 2012, but modern versions (2020+) can open 2012 files. If you rely on 2012 for legacy work, the long-term solution is either a dedicated Windows 7 PC or migrating your designs to a newer SolidWorks version (student edition or commercial subscription). Need further help? While official support for SolidWorks 2012 ended in 2015, active user communities remain. Post your Event Viewer error details and the exact step that failed in this guide to forums like Reddit’s r/SolidWorks or the DSC (Dassault Systèmes Community) legacy section.