How to Delete AutoCAD Registry Files in Windows 10?

Steps to Delete AutoCAD Registry Files in Windows 10

Removing AutoCAD registry files can help address persistent issues with the software or facilitate a clean reinstallation. The process requires careful navigation within the Windows Registry and performing specific actions to ensure all related entries are removed expeditiously. Here’s a step-by-step guide to assist you in this endeavor.

Prerequisites

Before starting, ensure you have administrative privileges on your Windows 10 machine. It’s critical to back up your registry before making any changes to avoid accidental loss of important data.

Step 1: Open the Registry Editor

1. Access the Run Dialog: Click on the Start menu or press the Windows + R keys simultaneously.
2. Launch the Registry Editor: Type regedit in the Run dialog and click OK. This action will open the Registry Editor.

Step 2: Navigate to AutoCAD Registry Entries

1. Find the AutoCAD Entries: In the Registry Editor, you will see a folder tree on the left panel. Navigate to the following paths:

   • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE > SOFTWARE > Autodesk > AutoCAD
   • HKEY_CURRENT_USER > SOFTWARE > Autodesk > AutoCAD
   • HKEY_USERS > (Find the appropriate user SID) > SOFTWARE > Autodesk > AutoCAD
2. Locate the Version Folder: Within the AutoCAD folder, look for entries that correspond to the version (AutoCAD 2025) you wish to remove.

Step 3: Deleting the AutoCAD Registry Entries

1. Right-Click and Delete: Once you identify the correct version folder or related entries, right-click on them and select Delete from the context menu.
2. Confirm Deletion: A confirmation prompt will appear. Click Yes to proceed with the deletion.

Step 4: Cleaning Up Leftover Entries

1. Search for Remaining Entries: Return to the Registry Editor and use the Find function (press Ctrl + F) to search for "AutoCAD". This step helps identify any leftover keys related to AutoCAD.
2. Delete Remaining Keys: Carefully delete any remaining keys that are related to AutoCAD. Be cautious to avoid deleting unrelated entries.

Step 5: Backup and Exit

1. Backup Registry: Before exiting, it’s advisable to back up your registry. Click File > Export, choose a location, name your backup, and select All under the export range.
2. Exit the Registry Editor: Close the Registry Editor once you’ve completed the deletions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What should I do if I cannot find the AutoCAD registry entries?
If AutoCAD was installed differently, or if it was removed incorrectly, entries might not exist. Additionally, ensure you are checking both HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE and HKEY_CURRENT_USER.

2. Is it safe to modify the Windows Registry?
Modifying the registry can be risky if you delete or alter the wrong entries. Always back up the registry before making changes, and proceed with caution.

3. How do I know if I removed all traces of AutoCAD?
After completing the deletion steps, you can run a complete system search for "AutoCAD" and examine any remaining related files or folders in the Program Files directory. This can help confirm that no remnants are left in the system.