How to reset AutoCAD to defaults

Cad Manager

Issue:

You want to reset AutoCAD to defaults in order to correct a problem that results in program crashes, inability to start, error messages, or other issues.

Causes:

Most AutoCAD functions are a result of values loaded from settings files and registry keys. Resetting the program to defaults will restore the program to its original settings.

Solution:

Each user account on a system will have its own AutoCAD settings. Resetting to defaults will only affect the currently active user account. To reset in a different account, you must first log in to that user. 

Windows 7 Operating System: 

For most versions of AutoCAD 2012 and later (including AutoCAD-based products), the reset utility can be found in the AutoCAD program group located in the Windows Start Menu:
  • Start menu > All Programs > Autodesk > AutoCAD 201x > Reset Settings To Default.
User-added image
 

The reset utility gives you the option to back-up your settings first. Once the reset is complete, AutoCAD automatically opens and initiates its secondary installer.

Windows 8 Operating System:

  1. Click the Windows button to access the Start Screen.
  2. Right-click the bottom of the screen.
  3. Click the down arrow to access all the installed apps.
  4. In the AutoCAD section, click "Reset Settings to Default."

Windows 8.1 Operating System:

  1. Click the Windows button to access the Start Screen.
  2. Move your cursor down and click the down arrow to access all the installed apps.
  3. In the AutoCAD section, click "Reset Settings to Default."
Windows 10 Operating System:
  1. Click the Windows button to access the Start menu.
  2. Click 'All Apps'
  3. Click the down arrow v to expand 'Autodesk'.
  4. Scroll down and click on 'Reset 201x Settings To Default'.
AutoCAD 2011 and older on the Windows 7 and Windows XP Operating Systems: 
For AutoCAD 2011 and older and versions that do not have the Reset utility, one must reinitiate the secondary installer. 
Article ID: 133, , Modified: February 9, 2016 at 8:56 AM

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