AutoCAD

How to Disable AutoCAD Update?

Turning Off Automatic Updates in AutoCAD

Disabling automatic updates in AutoCAD can help maintain a stable working environment, especially if you prefer to select which updates to install. Follow the steps below to turn off automatic updates in AutoCAD 2025 effectively.

Steps to Disable Automatic Updates

  1. Access AutoCAD Options: Start AutoCAD 2025. Type the command OPTIONS into the command line and press Enter. This action opens the Options dialog box.

  2. Navigate to the System Tab: In the Options dialog, click on the ‘System’ tab located on the left side. This section contains various setting options related to system behavior.

  3. Adjust Update Settings: Look for the checkbox that states ‘Automatically check for certification updates’. Ensure that this checkbox is unchecked. By doing so, you prevent AutoCAD from automatically looking for updates, which provides a more controlled update schedule.

  4. Confirm Changes: After unchecking the box, click on ‘OK’ at the bottom of the dialog box to save your settings. Now, AutoCAD will no longer check for updates without your explicit instruction.

Disabling Autodesk Application Manager

To further control the update notifications, you can disable the Autodesk Application Manager, which often prompts users about available updates. Here’s how to do that:

  1. Open Task Manager: Press CTRL + SHIFT + ESC to launch the Task Manager, or right-click the taskbar and select ‘Task Manager’.

  2. Find Startup Tab: In the Task Manager window, switch to the ‘Startup’ tab. This section lists all applications that start when your computer boots up.

  3. Disable Autodesk Application Manager: Locate ‘Autodesk Desktop App’ in the list of startup items. Right-click on it and choose the ‘Disable’ option. This step will prevent the Autodesk application from running at startup, thus ceasing its update notifications.

Managing Manual Updates

While it’s possible to stop automatic updates, you may still want to stay informed about necessary updates. To check for updates manually:

  1. Sign In to Autodesk Account: Go to manage.autodesk.com and log into your account.

  2. Navigate to Product Updates: Once logged in, select the ‘Products & Services’ tab, and then click on ‘Product Updates’.

  3. Download Updates at Your Convenience: Find the updates available for your installed AutoCAD version. Click on the download button next to any updates you wish to install and follow the on-screen instructions. This way, you can manage updates on your terms.

Blocking Internet Access for AutoCAD

If you’re looking for a more stringent approach to prevent AutoCAD updates, consider restricting the software’s internet access:

  1. Access Windows Firewall Settings: Open the Control Panel, and go to ‘Windows Defender Firewall’.

  2. Create a New Rule: On the left side, click on ‘Advanced settings’. In the new window, select ‘Outbound Rules’ and then choose ‘New Rule’ on the right panel.

  3. Select Program: Choose ‘Program’ and then click ‘Next’. Browse and select the AutoCAD executable file. To typically find it, it should be located in C:\Program Files\Autodesk\AutoCAD 2025.

  4. Block the Connection: Choose ‘Block the connection’ and click ‘Next’. Ensure all profiles (Domain, Private, Public) are checked, then give your rule a name and finish.

By implementing these steps, AutoCAD will be prevented from accessing the internet, thus effectively eliminating any automatic update capabilities.

FAQs

Q1: Will disabling automatic updates affect my AutoCAD performance?
Disabling automatic updates will not impact the performance of AutoCAD, but it may mean you miss important bug fixes and new features. It is advisable to manually check for updates periodically.

Q2: How can I receive update notifications without automatic updates?
You can periodically check updates by signing into your Autodesk account and manually downloading any updates you wish to install.

Q3: Is it safe to disable updates for AutoCAD?
While it is generally safe to disable updates, doing so may leave you vulnerable to security risks and software bugs. Always ensure you stay informed about important updates to maintain the integrity of your software.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.