How to Uninstall AutoCAD Completely?

Understanding the Uninstallation Process of AutoCAD

Uninstalling AutoCAD can be a straightforward task if approached methodically. This guide will walk you through the steps required to completely remove AutoCAD from your computer while ensuring that all associated files and licenses are eliminated.

Step 1: Prepare Your System

Before commencing the uninstallation process, it is advisable to back up any important work and files associated with AutoCAD. This step safeguards your data from accidental loss during the removal process. Additionally, ensure that no AutoCAD instances are running in the background. Close any open files and exit the application entirely.

Step 2: Use the Control Panel

1. Open the Control Panel by searching for it in the Windows Start Menu.
2. Select Programs followed by Programs and Features.
3. Scroll through the list of installed applications to locate AutoCAD.
4. Click on AutoCAD, then select the Uninstall button at the top of the window.
5. Follow the on-screen prompts to proceed with the uninstallation. This may involve confirming your decision and allowing the uninstaller to run.

Step 3: Remove AutoCAD Licensing

1. Access File Explorer and navigate to the directory: C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\Autodesk Shared\AdskLicensing.
2. Find the uninstall.exe file inside this folder.
3. Right-click on uninstall.exe and choose Run as administrator to initiate the removal process.
4. Wait until the licensing service has been completely removed from your system, ensuring that no licensing files are left behind.

Step 4: Eliminate Residual Files

AutoCAD may leave residual files after the standard uninstallation. To ensure that all files are deleted:

1. Using File Explorer, navigate to the following directories and delete their contents:
   • C:\Program Files\Autodesk
   • C:\Program Files (x86)\Autodesk
   • C:\ProgramData\Autodesk
   • C:\Users\<YourUsername>\AppData\Roaming\Autodesk
2. Also, check C:\Users\<YourUsername>\AppData\Local\Autodesk for any remaining AutoCAD files.

Be cautious while deleting any files from these folders and ensure that you only remove those related to AutoCAD.

Step 5: Clean Registry Entries

Removing remnants from the Windows Registry can help maintain system performance:

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
3. In the Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Autodesk and delete the Autodesk folder if it exists.
4. Also check HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Autodesk and delete any folders related to AutoCAD.
5. Use caution when modifying the registry, as incorrect changes can affect system stability.

Step 6: Restart Your System

After completing the uninstallation and cleaning processes, restart your computer. This reboot will finalize the removal of AutoCAD and its associated files, ensuring that the changes take effect properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I reinstall AutoCAD on the same computer after uninstalling it?

Yes, you can reinstall AutoCAD on the same computer. Ensure that you have your license information available and follow the installation prompts after downloading the software from the Autodesk website.

2. What if I encounter issues during the uninstallation process?

If you experience difficulties, try using the Microsoft Install/Uninstall Utility, which can help fix problems with uninstallation and remove stubborn applications.

3. Do I need to uninstall previous versions of AutoCAD before installing AutoCAD 2025?

It is not mandatory to uninstall previous versions before installing AutoCAD 2025, as Autodesk allows multiple versions to coexist on the same machine. However, for optimal performance, some users prefer to remove older versions.