Obtaining an activation code for AutoCAD is crucial to authenticating your software, especially if you’re using a perpetual license or your system isn’t connected to the internet. Here’s a step-by-step guide that includes important details for both online and offline activation.
How to Obtain an Activation Code For AutoCAD (Step by step)
1. Purchase a Valid AutoCAD License
To begin, you need a legitimate license for AutoCAD. You can purchase one through the official Autodesk website or an authorized reseller. Licenses come in different forms such as subscription-based or perpetual licenses (for older versions of AutoCAD).
- Note: As of 2021, Autodesk no longer supports offline activation for products from 2021 onwards. You need to activate these versions online only once. After the initial online activation, the software can be used offline without issues.
2. Install AutoCAD
Download the installation package from Autodesk’s official website, install the software on your computer, and follow the prompts for setting it up.
3. Launch AutoCAD and Start Activation
After installation, open AutoCAD. If you haven’t activated it yet, the software will start in trial mode. Follow these steps:
- Click Activate on the trial screen. You will be prompted to either sign in or enter a serial number and product key. Make sure to have this information ready (it’s typically sent via email after your purchase).
4. Choose Your Activation Method
There are two primary methods to activate AutoCAD: online and offline.
Online Activation
If your system is connected to the internet, AutoCAD will automatically prompt you to sign in with your Autodesk account. Follow these steps:
- Enter your serial number and product key when prompted.
- AutoCAD will verify your information and activate the software automatically if everything is correct.
- Once activated, you can use AutoCAD online or offline, depending on your preferences.
Offline Activation (For Perpetual Licenses Only)
If you are offline or using a perpetual license (2020 or earlier), you need to manually generate a request code to obtain the activation code. Here’s how:
- Disable your internet connection and launch AutoCAD.
- Enter your serial number and product key, then click Next.
- Select Request an activation code using an offline method. This option is available only if your computer is offline.
- You will see a request code on the screen. Write this code down or save it for the next steps.
To generate your activation code:
- Visit Autodesk Product Registration and sign in with your Autodesk account. Enter the request code, serial number, and product key.
- The system will generate an activation code that you can then input into AutoCAD to complete the activation.
Important: Activation codes for perpetual licenses are tied to the specific computer hardware configuration on which the software is installed. If you upgrade your system, reset it, or change hardware, you may need to generate a new request code and obtain a new activation code.
5. Save Your Activation Information
Once you receive your activation code, either by email or through Autodesk’s system, make sure to save it securely. You might need it in the future, especially if you reinstall AutoCAD or move it to another machine.
6. Special Cases for Activation
- Educational Licenses: If you have an educational license and you are offline, you will need to request an activation code manually by generating a request code.
- Subscription Software: Newer subscription-based AutoCAD versions (2021 and later) must be activated online. Manual activation codes are no longer provided for these versions.
7. What to Do if Automatic Activation Fails
If automatic activation fails, it may be due to several reasons:
- The system is not connected to the internet.
- You upgraded or reinstalled your operating system.
- Changes were made to your computer’s hardware.
- Forced reactivation during troubleshooting.
In such cases, you may need to use Autodesk’s manual activation process or contact Autodesk Support for assistance.
Conclusion
Whether you’re using an older perpetual license or a newer subscription-based version, activating AutoCAD is essential for full functionality. For versions 2021 and later, Autodesk has streamlined the activation process, requiring only an online activation. However, for older versions and offline activations, following the correct steps for manual activation ensures you can use your software without interruption.
For more detailed instructions on generating request codes or finding support, visit the official Autodesk Support page.