AutoCAD

How to Get Classic Workspace in AutoCAD 2017?

How to Access the Classic Workspace in AutoCAD 2017

For those who prefer the traditional layout of AutoCAD, accessing the Classic workspace can enhance productivity by providing a familiar interface. Below are detailed steps on how to switch to the Classic workspace in AutoCAD 2017.

Step 1: Save Current Workspace

  1. Open AutoCAD 2017.
  2. Navigate to the top menu and click on the Tools menu.
  3. From the drop-down menu, select Workspaces.
  4. Click on Save Current As to open the Save Workspace dialog box.

Step 2: Name the Workspace

  1. In the Name box of the dialog, type in "AutoCAD Classic".
  2. Ensure there are no spelling errors, as the name will be used to identify your workspace.
  3. Click Save to confirm the new workspace name.

Step 3: Switch to the Classic Workspace

  1. After saving, navigate back to the Tools menu.
  2. Again, select Workspaces.
  3. Find the newly created AutoCAD Classic in the list and click on it to switch your interface to the Classic layout.

Downloading the Classic Workspace for AutoCAD

To download a Classic workspace configuration for AutoCAD, follow these steps:

Step 1: Initiate the Workspace Save Process

  1. Open your AutoCAD software.
  2. Click on the Tools menu at the top of the window.
  3. Go to Workspaces and select Save Current As.

Step 2: Enter Workspace Name

  1. In the dialog box that appears, type "AutoCAD Classic" into the Name field.
  2. Click the Save button to store the workspace configuration.

Locating the AutoCAD Classic Workspace

If you’re looking for the saved Classic workspace, here’s how to find it:

  1. Once again, click on the Tools menu.
  2. Navigate to Workspaces.
  3. Choose Save Current As to open the dialog and confirm your classic workspace is listed as "AutoCAD Classic".

Restoring the Classic Insert Command

For users wanting to restore traditional insert options in AutoCAD, follow these steps:

Step 1: Access the Aliases

  1. Select the Manage tab on the ribbon.
  2. Click on Edit Aliases located in the Customization panel.

Step 2: Modify the Command

  1. A text window will open showing the acad.pgp file.
  2. Search for the line: I, *INSERT.
  3. Change it to: I, *CLASSICINSERT.
  4. Save your changes and close the text editor.
  5. Restart AutoCAD to implement the changes.

Changing to Classic Mode in AutoCAD 2025

For users of AutoCAD 2025, the steps are similar to those of AutoCAD 2017:

  1. Go to the Tools menu.
  2. Click on Workspaces followed by Save Current As.
  3. In the dialog box, input "AutoCAD Classic" and click Save.

Customizing the AutoCAD Menu Bar

AutoCAD allows users to tailor the menu for ease of use:

  1. Right-click on any toolbar button to bring up options.
  2. Select Customize from the context menu.
  3. In the Customize tab, locate the Command List pane.
  4. Drag and drop the desired command onto the toolbar on your interface.

FAQ

1. Can I revert back to the default workspace after switching to Classic?
Yes, you can easily switch back to the default workspace by selecting it from the Workspaces menu under the Tools tab.

2. What if I do not see the Tools menu in AutoCAD?
If the Tools menu is not visible, you may need to enable it via the Menu Bar settings or use the command prompt for direct access to workspaces.

3. Is the Classic workspace available in all versions of AutoCAD?
The Classic workspace was removed in some of the later versions of AutoCAD, including newer toolsets; however, users can create a similar setup by customizing toolbars and menu configurations in the latest versions.

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.