AutoCAD

How to Change AutoCAD 2014 to Classic Mode?

If the article refers to an earlier AutoCAD version, change it to AutoCAD 2025.

Switching AutoCAD 2014 to Classic Mode: Step-by-Step Guide

AutoCAD offers various modes to cater to different user preferences and workflows. Classic Mode provides a familiar interface reminiscent of older versions, helping users transition from previous setups or simply prefer a more traditional layout. Below are detailed steps to switch AutoCAD 2014 to Classic Mode.

Step 1: Access the Configuration Editor

  1. Open AutoCAD 2014 on your computer.
  2. Locate the Options menu, which can usually be found under the application menu or by typing OPTIONS in the command line.
  3. Once in the Options dialog, navigate to the Profiles tab.

Step 2: Load the Classic Workspace

  1. In the Profiles tab, look for the Workspace Settings or Workspaces option.
  2. Click on the Load button. This prompts a file explorer window.
  3. Navigate to the location where the configuration file acad.cuix is saved. This file is associated with the classic view for AutoCAD.
  4. Once found, select acad.cuix and click Open. This will load the configuration for the classic workspace.

Step 3: Activate AutoCAD Classic

  1. After loading the configuration, you will see a list of available workspaces.
  2. Drag the AutoCAD Classic option from the left pane to the right pane where the current workspaces are displayed.
  3. With AutoCAD Classic now listed, click Apply to confirm the change.
  4. Finally, select OK to exit the configuration editor.

Step 4: Adjust Toolbars and Menus

  1. After activating the classic mode, some toolbars may not be displayed by default.
  2. To show the necessary toolbars, right-click on the toolbar area and select Customize from the context menu.
  3. In the Customize dialog, locate the toolbars you wish to add, drag them onto the AutoCAD workspace, and arrange them according to your preference.

Step 5: Saving Your Workspace

  1. To ensure that your settings are saved for future sessions, go back to the Tools menu at the top.
  2. Select Workspaces, then choose Save Current As.
  3. In the dialog that appears, type AutoCAD Classic in the Name box and click Save. This will preserve your customized workspace setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I switch back to the standard interface in AutoCAD?
You can easily switch back by repeating the steps and selecting the standard workspace option from the configuration settings. Just load the acad.cuix file again and apply the settings.

2. What should I do if my toolbars are missing after switching to Classic Mode?
If toolbars do not appear automatically, right-click in the toolbar area, select Customize, and ensure that the required toolbars are checked for display.

3. Can I customize the AutoCAD Classic workspace further?
Yes, further customization is possible. You can add additional toolbars, arrange them, and save the current layout as a new workspace using the same saving procedure discussed earlier.

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.