MicroStation V8i Upgrade Options
Thank you for contacting us about MicroStation V8i. At the time of its release in 2001, MicroStation V8i was a breakthrough in the CAD industry as it incorporated features that were at the forefront of the industry, and that are still included in more modern versions of the software. However, Bentley discontinued development and support for these applications back in 2022, when MicroStation CONNECT Edition became the only purchase option for MicroStation users.
Any MicroStation V8i user that existed prior to 2022 can still access the software, even in a discontinued support state. But unfortunately, we are unable to sell MicroStation V8i licenses to new users as all V8i applications, both SELECTseries 10 and earlier versions/generations, are no longer available for download or distribution.
However, we are happy to note that the latest version of MicroStation includes the majority of the V8i features, with added capabilities, such as geospatial context, that will help you improve the productivity of your infrastructure and design teams. The latest version also offers full technical support and added security features not found in V8i.
While not super common, there are instances in which users might need to use MicroStation V8i, either because they are mandated or there’s an application that needs a specific MicroStation version to run successfully.
Do you really need MicroStation V8i?
If you are an active MicroStation V8i user looking to upgrade to MicroStation 2024, visit here.
If you are trying to determine if you need MicroStation V8i or could use MicroStation 2024 instead, ask yourself the following questions:
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Are there added functionalities (e.g., Workset configurations from a DOT) provided by a third party that need to be installed over a specific version of MicroStation (e.g., 8.11.09.393)?
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Do you need to run an application developed by a third party for a specific version of MicroStation (e.g., 8.11.09.393)?
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Were you asked to deliver in DGN V8 format or be receiving DGN V8 formats to work with?
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Does the person or entity you will be working with use MicroStation V8i?
If you responded “yes” to questions 1 and 2, you do need MicroStation V8i. Further information on how you can access MicroStation V8i is below. But for working with V8i users or utilizing DGN V8 format, MicroStation 2024 can support your needs as MicroStation’s DGN file format enables timeless design, allowing you to open old files on any MicroStation version after V8i.
Additionally, the latest MicroStation version offers a way to present itself with the same appearance and feel as V8i, and there are plenty of resources to ease the transition.
How To Access V8i
V8i applications are no longer available for purchase or support. However, there’s a way for you to use MicroStation V8i if you absolutely need to. While Bentley is no longer distributing these versions, there are entities still using them and support their clients or contractors to be able to work with them using these versions.
To get MicroStation V8i you need to:
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Get a perpetual license of MicroStation, which will provide you with an entitlement to use MicroStation.
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Get the installer and all the support you need from the entity or agency you will be working with.
The entitlement will allow you to run older versions of MicroStation, but we cannot provide access to the older versions of this software directly. Therefore, you must get support from a third party to be able to install and run MicroStation V8i.
DOTs and other organizations still using MicroStation V8i are making colossal efforts to upgrade, but some might not be there just yet. These users are fully aware of everything explained here and consequently take measures to support their customers and contractors regarding the use of MicroStation V8i.
This is currently the only way to get MicroStation V8i. Please note that the terms and conditions of the perpetual license indicate that you waive all rights to technical support from Bentley when you use these versions.
Do you really need MicroStation V8i?
To get a perpetual MicroStation license, please contact our Sales Desk at [email protected].
If you have discovered that you could use the latest version of MicroStation instead, you can buy it now or contact [email protected] for assistance.
If you have any further questions, please contact [email protected]
If you still are not 100% percent sure that you can use the latest version, give it a try for yourself! Contact [email protected] to download the trial, open your old files, send them to your partner to verify, set it up with the V8i appearance, and discover for yourself all the new added features that will accelerate your workflow!
To get a perpetual MicroStation license, please contact our Sales Desk at [email protected].
