AutoCAD protected Files

[Baqari]

Hi Everyone

 I was just wondering if can protect my AutoCAD file, so it can't be use by another users. I do not want my drawing to be modified in that file or copied from my file to another (to enable editing). I want my file to be completely unusable for others. I can allow others to open it, view it and measure it if needed, but nothing more. If there is any way to do this it would be awesome and I would learn it from you with pleasure.

Thanks in advance

[pendean · Accepted solution]

If this is an internal need (in your office), you need to be a network admin and place these files in a folder with a group policy that locks everyone else out of editing those files in place.

If you cannot do the above, or this is a need or when yous end files out, you might as well stop now: anything you can do others can undo by coming here to ask how like you are. This is better covered by legal contracts, talk to a legal counsel.

[RobDraw]

@Baqari wrote:

 I was just wondering if can protect my AutoCAD file, so it can't be use by another users.

---

Put it in a secure location on a local drive and never share it.

[Alfred.NESWADBA]

Hi,

>> I can allow others to open it, view it and measure

>> it if needed, but nothing more

Plot to DWF, this file can be used to view and measure, also XRef in another dwg, but not changed.

Keep your DWG in a safe place.

- alfred -

[natasha.l · Accepted solution]

Hello @Baqari, 

I wanted to add to this post, that starting with AutoCAD 2016 based products, the ability to add passwords to drawing files was removed. It is a recommendation that you purchase an encryption product that meets current industry standards to better protect your files. 

Please review the "Can a drawing file be password protected in AutoCAD?".

Please "Accept Solution" if a reply or replies have helped resolve the issue or answered your question, to help others in the community.

[sgrabrovic]

U can use 3rd party software like DWGLock.

I have small program that protect DWG drawing from modify, u can try for free 10 days.

User can view but can't modify existing drawing, 

Just type L2B command after program installation.

[Alfred.NESWADBA]

Hi,

I tried the EXE inside a virtual system ... and killed the OS ...

- alfred -

[sgrabrovic]

Its a setup program that install to Program Files.

Lisp its automaticly implemented in AutoCad.

Working fine for me, did't test in virtual systems sorry 😞

Stojan

[Secude_autodesk]

Yes, definitely possible. Checkout HALOCAD for AutoCAD https://secude.com/halocad/halocad-for-autodesk/

The solution extends security templates provided by Microsoft Information Protection (MIP) to protect AutoCAD files. At the time of file creation, the user’s valid credentials will invoke MIP labels from Azure which is applied to the CAD files. Protected CAD files can only be opened and modified by authorized users and thus, protection continues to remain even when the file is accessed by multiple users outside the company’s network. The user’s rights (View, Edit, Copy, Paste, Save As, etc.,) are governed by pre-defined security policies.

[bwood9S2R9]

Secude's HaloCAD solution encrypts CAD files and provides access control that is attached to and follows the file wherever it travels.  Access control granularity allows for restriction of functions such as edit, print and export which are enforced within the CAD UI so you can maintain complete control over your files when sharing with other users.  HaloCAD also has solutions for popular PLM systems including Autodesk Vault.  HaloCAD leverages Microsoft Purview Information Protection (MPIP) so is best suited for Microsoft 365 users who have or can upgrade to an E3 subscription or higher and is a direct add-on for extending Purview DLP.

Please check out HaloCAD here:  https://www.secude.com

HaloCAD is also available on the Autodesk Store:

secude | Autodesk App Store : Plugins, Add-ons for Autodesk software, AutoCAD, Revit, Inventor, 3ds ...