AutoCAD

How To Get Icons Back In AutoCAD?

Understanding Icon Visibility in AutoCAD

If you find that your icons are missing in AutoCAD 2025, it’s essential to identify the underlying reasons. Icons can disappear due to workspace changes, profile settings, or configuration issues. Restoring icons can significantly enhance your workflow, allowing for quick command access.

Checking Your Workspace Configuration

1. Locate the Workspace switching icon on your status bar, usually found at the bottom right of the application window. This may be labeled with the current workspace name (e.g., Drafting & Annotation, 3D Modeling).

2. Click on the dropdown menu, select a different workspace temporarily, and then switch back to your preferred workspace. This simple toggle can refresh the UI elements, including icons.

Resetting the AutoCAD Profile

1. Go to the AutoCAD application menu located at the top left of the window.

2. Select “Options” from the drop-down menu.

3. Navigate to the “Profiles” tab in the Options dialog box. Choose a different profile and then revert to your original profile. This action can often reset toolbars and icon visibility.

Displaying the Menu Bar

1. Access the Quick Access Toolbar at the top of the AutoCAD interface.

2. Click on the drop-down arrow to find “Show Menu Bar.” Ensure this option is selected; this can sometimes bring back missing icons.

Using the Command Line to Restore Icons

1. If the command line is not visible, press the “Ctrl” key along with the “9” key. This will toggle the display of the command line.

2. Once visible, you can type in commands that may help restore icons. Use TOOLBAR followed by the name of the icon you want to display. For example, TOOLBAR Standard can bring back the Standard toolbar.

Restoring Toolbars and Icons

1. Open the Tools menu located on the top menu bar.

2. Select “Toolbars,” and from the submenu, choose the icons or toolbars you need to display. Explore options such as “AutoCAD” or “Draw” to restore specific functionality.

Adjusting Ribbon Settings

1. Type RIBBON in the command line to ensure the ribbon is turned on. This will help in displaying commands and icons effectively.

2. Conversely, typing RIBBONCLOSE will hide the ribbon, which may impact your icon visibility. Make sure you keep it open for easier access.

Understanding Autodesk Recovery Tools

If you have issues that persist despite following the above steps, you may want to consider the Drawing Recovery Manager.

1. Open the Recovery Manager, which can be found under the application menu.

2. Explore the Backup Files section to see if any previous configurations can be restored, allowing you to recover missing icons or toolbars that were misconfigured or lost.

FAQs

How do I reset my AutoCAD settings?
To reset your AutoCAD settings, open the Options dialog from the application menu. Navigate to the “Profiles” tab, select your current profile, and click the “Reset” button. This will restore default settings, including toolbars and icons.

What should I do if my toolbars are still missing after following these steps?
If the toolbars remain absent, consider reinstalling AutoCAD. Before doing so, ensure you back up your custom settings and drawings.

Can I customize the icons in AutoCAD?
Yes, AutoCAD allows you to customize the toolbars and icons by right-clicking on the toolbar area and selecting “Customize,” where you can add or remove icons as necessary.

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.