How To Block AutoCAD In Firewall?

Steps to Block AutoCAD in Windows Firewall

Blocking AutoCAD in your Windows Firewall can help manage its internet access, whether for security reasons or to prevent unwanted updates. Below are detailed steps to configure your firewall settings for AutoCAD.

Access Windows Firewall Settings

1. Open the Control Panel: Click on the Start menu and search for "Control Panel." Open it.
2. Navigate to Windows Firewall: In the Control Panel, click on “System and Security,” then select “Windows Defender Firewall.”

Create a New Rule in the Firewall

1. Access Advanced Settings: On the left side of the Windows Firewall window, find and click on “Advanced settings.” This will open the Windows Firewall with Advanced Security dialog.

2. Inbound Rules: In the left pane, click on “Inbound Rules.” This section controls incoming traffic for your system.

3. New Rule Creation: In the right pane, click on “New Rule.” This will initiate the New Inbound Rule Wizard.

4. Rule Type Selection: Choose "Program" as the rule type, then click “Next.”

5. Select the Program: Choose the option to “This program path,” then click “Browse” to locate the AutoCAD executable file on your system (usually found in the installation folder).

6. Name the Rule: After specifying the AutoCAD executable, provide a descriptive name for the rule (e.g., "Block AutoCAD Internet Access") and click “Finish.”

Manage Outbound Rules

1. Outbound Rules: Next, click on “Outbound Rules” in the left pane to control outgoing connections.

2. Create New Outbound Rule: Click on “New Rule” in the right pane to open the Outbound Rule Wizard.

3. Repeat Program Selection: Select "Program" again, and follow similar steps as before to choose the AutoCAD executable.

4. Complete the Setup: Name this rule appropriately and finish the wizard.

Blocking AutoCAD from Internet Access

If you want to further ensure AutoCAD doesn’t connect to the internet, consider adjusting the application settings.

Adjust AutoCAD Settings

1. Access AutoCAD: Open AutoCAD, and then close the application afterward.

2. Modify Registry Settings: Press WINDOWS-R to open the Run dialog, type REGEDIT, and press Enter to launch the Registry Editor.

3. Navigate to InfoCenter Settings: Find the following path:

   • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Autodesk\AutoCAD\2025\Rxx\ACAD-xxxx:xxx\InfoCenterOn

4. Disable InfoCenter: Double-click on the InfoCenterOn entry. Change its value to 0 and click “OK.” This action stops AutoCAD from checking for online resources.

5. Restart AutoCAD: Close the Registry Editor and relaunch AutoCAD for the changes to take effect.

Additional Methods to Monitor AutoCAD Access

Disabling AutoCAD Genuine Service

1. Open the Services App: Search for "Services" in the Start menu and open it.

2. Locate Autodesk Genuine Service: Scroll through the list and find "Autodesk Genuine Service."

3. Disable the Service: Right-click on the service, select “Properties,” set the Startup type to “Disabled,” and click “OK.”

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use AutoCAD without an internet connection?
Yes, for most desktop versions like AutoCAD 2025, an internet connection is not required for regular use after the initial installation. However, a connection is necessary for updates and online resources.

2. Is it possible to uninstall Autodesk Genuine Service completely?
Yes, you can remove Autodesk Genuine Service through the Programs and Features section in the Control Panel. Locate it, right-click, and choose "Uninstall."

3. How can I stop AutoCAD from automatically updating?
Open AutoCAD and use the OPTIONS command to access settings. Under the System tab, uncheck "Automatically check for updates" to disable the feature.