Troubleshooting AutoCAD Installation Issues on Windows 11

AutoCAD is considered one of the premier design applications available today. Nevertheless, users may occasionally face installation challenges on their Windows computers. This issue often arises during the upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 or when attempting to install a new copy of the software. In this article, we will explore steps to take if AutoCAD fails to install on Windows 11.

Troubleshooting AutoCAD Installation Issues on Windows 11

If you’re encountering difficulties installing AutoCAD on Windows 11, consider the following solutions to resolve the problem.

1. Verify that your system meets the necessary specifications
2. Disable the Beta: Use Unicode UTF-8 for global language support feature
3. Reinstall the Autodesk Desktop Licensing Service
4. Confirm your date, time, and timezone settings
5. Temporarily disable your antivirus software
6. Reinstall the. NET Framework
7. Install AutoCAD in Clean Boot mode

Let’s examine these solutions in detail.

1] Verify System Requirements

Before proceeding with the installation, ensure your computer fulfills the requirements set forth by the developers for AutoCAD. Below is a list of essential specifications for Windows systems:

• Operating System: Windows 10/11 (64-bit)
• Processor: 3+ GHz
• Memory: 16 GB RAM
• Display Resolution: 1920 x 1080 or better
• Graphics Card: 4 GB GPU, DirectX 12 compatible with 106 GB/s bandwidth
• Free Disk Space: 10 GB available
• Required Features:. NET Framework version 4.8 or later

To check your system’s specifications, open the Run dialog, type ‘dxdiag’, and press Enter. If your computer doesn’t meet the criteria, consider upgrading your hardware before retrying the AutoCAD installation.

2] Disable Unicode UTF-8 Support Feature

The Beta setting to use Unicode UTF-8 for global language support can interfere with the AutoCAD installation process. To turn off this feature, follow these steps:

1. Open the Control Panel.
2. Select Clocks and Region, then choose Region.
3. Navigate to the Administrative tab and click on Change system locale.
4. Uncheck the option for Beta: Use Unicode UTF-8 for worldwide language support and click Ok.

Restart your computer and attempt the installation once again to see if the problem is resolved.

3] Reinstall Autodesk Desktop Licensing Service

Since the Autodesk Desktop Licensing Service manages licenses for Autodesk programs, a corruption within this service may prevent installation. Follow these instructions to reinstall it:

1. Open File Explorer and navigate to:
   C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\Autodesk Shared\AdskLicensing.
2. Right-click on uninstall.exe and select Run as administrator.
3. Download and install the latest Autodesk Licensing Service from autodesk.com.
4. Run the AutoCAD setup.exe file to continue the installation.

Check if reinstalling the licensing service resolves the installation failure.

4] Verify Date, Time, and Timezone Settings

Problems with installation may occur if your computer’s date, time, or timezone settings are incorrect. To verify these settings:

1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
2. Go to Time & Language > Date & time.
3. Ensure that Set time zone automatically is enabled, or disable it if issues persist.
4. Select the correct Time Zone.
5. Check that the date and time are accurate.

Once you’ve confirmed these settings, try running the installation media again to see if the issue persists.

5] Disable Your Antivirus Temporarily

Sometimes, antivirus software or firewalls can block the installation of AutoCAD. Feel free to disable your third-party antivirus or Windows Defender temporarily to complete the installation, then reactivate it afterward. This may help resolve the installation issue.

6] Reinstall the. NET Framework

AutoCAD relies on the. NET Framework to operate properly. To ensure that your installation environment is compatible, follow these steps:

1. Open Control Panel.
2. Go to Programs > Programs and Features.
3. Click on Turn Windows features on or off.
4. Uncheck. NET Framework 3.5 (including. NET 2.0 and 3.0) and. NET Framework 4.8 Advanced Series, then click Ok.
5. Reboot your computer and then re-enable the two frameworks by checking the boxes again.

This should help create the necessary environment for successful installation.

7] Perform a Clean Boot Installation

If any third-party applications are interfering with AutoCAD’s installation, consider performing a Clean Boot. This action disables all non-essential services, providing an unobstructed environment for the installation. After executing a Clean Boot, attempt the installation to see if the problem is resolved.

With these potential solutions outlined, you should be equipped to troubleshoot and hopefully resolve any installation issues you’re facing with AutoCAD on Windows 11.

What Causes AutoCAD Installation Issues?

AutoCAD installation problems can stem from a variety of factors, including insufficient system specs, corruption or absence of the. NET Framework, or issues with the Unicode UTF-8 setting or the Autodesk Desktop Licensing Service. Review the earlier solutions to identify and address the root cause of your installation issues.

Why Isn’t AutoCAD Functioning on Windows 11?

Your computer may not meet the necessary system requirements outlined by Autodesk to operate AutoCAD successfully. Additional factors, such as software conflicts or an inadequate installation environment, could also lead to issues. We recommend disabling the Unicode UTF-8 setting and reinstalling the. NET Framework as previously mentioned.