AutoCAD

How to Download and Install AutoCAD 2021 on Mac for Free?

by Wei Zhang
3 min read

Steps to Download and Install AutoCAD 2025 on Mac for Free

Accessing the Autodesk Education Community

To begin the process of downloading AutoCAD for free, visit the Autodesk Education Community website. This platform provides access to various Autodesk software, including AutoCAD, specifically catered for students and educators.

  1. Navigate to the Autodesk Education Community.
  2. Create an Autodesk account if you don’t already have one. You’ll need to verify your eligibility as a student or educator for free access.

Selecting AutoCAD 2025

Once you are logged into your Autodesk account:

  1. Look for the “Free software” tab.
  2. Make sure to check off the option for “All products.”
  3. Find AutoCAD in the list and select it to proceed.

Downloading the Installer

Follow these steps to download the installer for AutoCAD 2025:

  1. Click on the "Download Now" button after selecting AutoCAD.
  2. Choose the appropriate version of AutoCAD for your Mac.
  3. Select your operating system and preferred language from the available options.

Installing AutoCAD on Mac

Once the download is complete, follow these steps to install AutoCAD 2025:

  1. Locate the downloaded installer file, which typically comes as a .dmg file.
  2. Double-click the .dmg file to open it. This action will extract the necessary files for installation.
  3. The installation interface should appear. Select the option to install the software and follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. Depending on your system’s security settings, you may need to authorize the installation by entering your Mac’s password.

Activating AutoCAD 2025

After installation, launching AutoCAD for the first time requires activation:

  1. Open AutoCAD from your Applications folder.
  2. You will be prompted to enter your serial number. This should be provided during the installation or found in the Autodesk account you created.
  3. Follow the steps on-screen for activation, selecting the option for educational access.

Additional Considerations

  • Ensure that your Mac meets the system requirements for AutoCAD 2025 to avoid performance issues.
  • Familiarize yourself with the functionality differences between the Mac and Windows versions, as not all features are identical.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is AutoCAD free for Mac users?
Yes, students and educators can access a free version of AutoCAD through the Autodesk Education Community.

2. Are there performance differences between AutoCAD for Mac and Windows?
Yes, the Mac version of AutoCAD may lack some features found in the Windows edition. For full functionality, consider running Windows on your Mac via Boot Camp or a virtual machine.

3. What if I encounter issues during installation on my Mac?
If you face problems, ensure that your macOS is updated and compatible with the AutoCAD version. Refer to Autodesk’s support resources or community forums for troubleshooting assistance.

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.

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