How to perform a fresh installation of 3Shape Dental System

This article provides a step-by-step guide for performing a fresh installation of the 3Shape Dental System. 

Before you begin, ensure you are ready with the following prerequisites:

System Requirements:
Ensure your PC meets the hardware and software requirements for Dental System 2025. This includes CPU, RAM, storage, and supported operating systems. Running the software on compatible hardware is crucial for performance and future updates. 

Scanner Compatibility:
Dental System 2025 may not support some older 3Shape lab scanners. During installation, a popup window will show a list of compatible scanners. Check this carefully before proceeding.

Internet Connection:
It is strongly recommended to keep the system connected to the internet during installation for full feature access.

Installation Process

The Dental System is installed using the 3Shape Dental System Installer, which you can download from the 3Shape Partner Portal.

Please follow the instructions below:

Launch the Installer

• Right-click the Dental System Installer and select “Run as administrator.”
• Click Yes to start the installation.

• Wait while the necessary files are extracted.

Choose Installation Language and Location

• Select your preferred language and location.
• Click Continue.

Choose Installation Method

You will be prompted to select either Standard Installation or Custom Installation.

Standard Installation:

• Quick setup with default settings (backup, materials update, etc.)
• Minimal user interaction required.

Custom Installation:

• Ideal for advanced users or network environments.
• Allows customization of settings (backup, materials, database, dongle, proxy, etc.)

Standard Installation process

Once you have selected Standard Installation, the installation process starts automatically and requires only a few clicks to complete.

Step 1 - Wait for installation to complete

It will take a few minutes for the installer to complete all steps. The installer also includes automatic download and installation of 3Shape Unite as part of Dental System, after which the installation procedure continues.

Step 2 - Exit the Installer 

Click Finish to complete the installation.

Custom installation process

Step 1: Configure Installation Settings

You will be asked to choose the installation type:

• Standalone
  Best for single PC use (e.g., scanner-PC). All software and data are stored locally.
• Server Install / Network Client
  For multi-PC environments. Refer either to the corresponding knowledge base article or to 3Shape user manual. 
• Clone System
  Use this option if installing the same settings and configuration from another Dental System installation. Refer to the “Import/Export” chapter for cloning instructions. The same version of the Dental System is required for successful system cloning.

Advanced Options (optional)

• Dongle Settings: Use a local dongle or specify a network dongle service.
• Database Settings: Choose between local or remote MSSQL Server (requires server location and credentials).
• Internet Proxy Settings: Configure if you are behind a proxy server.

Click Continue to proceed.

Step 2: Wait for Installation to complete

The installer will process your configurations and install all required components.

Step 3: Install 3Shape Unite

3Shape Unite will be automatically downloaded and installed as part of the setup.

Step 4: Complete the Upgrade

• Launch Control Panel checkmark is enabled by default
• Click Finish to open Dental System Control Panel and complete the process.

If you encounter issues or have questions during installation process, please contact your 3Shape reseller or technical support team for assistance.