How To Block AutoCAD From Accessing Internet?

Preventing AutoCAD from Accessing the Internet

Ensuring that AutoCAD does not connect to the internet can be essential for various reasons, including maintaining privacy, preventing automatic updates, or limiting license verifications. Below are detailed methods for blocking AutoCAD from accessing the internet.

Method 1: Using Windows Firewall

1. Close AutoCAD: If the application is running, exit it completely.
2. Access the Windows Firewall:
   • Click on the Start menu and type Windows Defender Firewall. Open it.
3. Advanced Settings:
   • On the left sidebar, select Advanced settings to open the Windows Firewall with Advanced Security window.
4. Create a New Rule:
   • In this window, click on Outbound Rules.
   • Select New Rule… from the right panel.
5. Program Selection:
   • Choose the option for This program path and click Browse.
   • Navigate to the installation directory of AutoCAD (usually found in C:\Program Files\Autodesk\AutoCAD 2025) and select the main executable file (such as acad.exe).
6. Block the Connection:
   • Choose Block the connection to prevent AutoCAD from accessing the internet.
   • Follow the prompts, ensuring to select all profiles (Domain, Private, Public) when given the option.
7. Name the Rule:
   • Assign a name to the rule (e.g., "Block AutoCAD Internet Access") and finish by clicking Finish.

Method 2: Modifying Registry Settings (Windows 10)

1. Close AutoCAD: Make sure AutoCAD is not running.
2. Open Registry Editor:
   • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog, type REGEDIT, and press Enter.
3. Navigate to the Relevant Key:
   • Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Autodesk\AutoCAD\R25.0\ACAD-XYZ:XYZ\.
4. Change InfoCenterOn Value:
   • In the right pane, look for the key named InfoCenterOn.
   • Double-click on it and change its value to 0 to disable internet access features.
5. Close the Registry Editor: Exit the editor and restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Method 3: Disabling Autodesk Desktop App

1. Open Task Manager:
   • Right-click on the taskbar and select Task Manager or press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. Startup Tab:
   • Click on the Startup tab within Task Manager.
3. Locate Autodesk Desktop App:
   • Find the Autodesk Desktop App in the list of startup programs.
4. Disable the App:
   • Right-click on it and select Disable to prevent it from launching at startup and checking for updates.

FAQs

1. Is it necessary to be online for AutoCAD’s operation?
Most versions of AutoCAD, including AutoCAD 2025, can function offline after the initial installation and license activation. Internet access is mainly required for updates and license verification.

2. What happens if I block AutoCAD from the internet?
Blocking internet access may prevent features that rely on online connectivity, such as certain cloud services or updates. However, core functionalities of the software will remain unaffected.

3. Can I reverse the settings if needed?
Yes, you can easily reverse any changes by returning to the Windows Firewall settings, Registry Editor, or Task Manager, and unchecking or enabling the options previously adjusted.