Protect Drawing File

[Anonymous]

Hey Folks,

I would like to be able to send a .dwg file that is locked and protected.  Is there a way to lock out a file where no one can edit the drawing but still be able to open the drawing in AutoCAD?

I've been given one once before but I cannot seem to recreate the process.  All of the third party applications I've come across seem to be pretty convoluted when it comes to the recipients process for viewing the file.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[deusextechnic]

Quick and dirty solution is to export as PDF or DWF and attach the result to a blank file in autocad. 

[Anonymous]

Thanks.  This sorta works.  I'm looking for a solution that allows layer information to be retained.  Also, it looks like the line weights are being changed. 

[Patchy]

Deter.vlx makes minsert from the drawing, not bullet-proof but it takes a searching to make the dwg useable again.

[john.vellek]

Hi @Anonymous,

Many customers print/plot to AutoCAD and then open the PDF and print it again to another PDF. This removes the vector information which makes it much harder to "import" or "convert" into an editable drawing.

The Minsert method is also great.

Please select the Accept as Solution button if my post solves your issue or answers your question.

[RobDraw]

The best way to protect your drawing is to not share the .dwg.

Layer information can be included in a PDF.

What is it you are trying to protect, the design or the CAD content?

If it's the design and you don't trust the recipient, check the project contract and if sharing the files in not in there, refuse to share the .dwg. Be aware that you may ruffle some feathers by doing this. If it's in the contract, you don't really have a choice. If you send them files that they cannot use, you could be in breach of the contract.

If it's the content, i.e., blocks, styles, etc., forget it. Even though you may trying to protect an investment of time, there is always someone who can recreate it. Keep in mind that the standards that you set up your files to may not coincide with the recipients and a certain amount of reworking will more than likely be necessary on their end, i.e. your files are being used for coordination of trades.

[john.vellek]

Hi @Anonymous,

Did you find your answer here in this thread? Is there something else I can provide to you?

[RobDraw]

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@john.vellek wrote:

Hi @Anonymous,

Many customers print/plot to AutoCAD and then open the PDF and print it again to another PDF. This removes the vector information which makes it much harder to "import" or "convert" into an editable drawing.

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Why don't they just do the original PDF as a raster rather than vector just to jump through hoops to remove the vector information?

[RAFUSE]

One trick that I have used where I am obligated  to furnish a .dwg file is to use xblock multiple times.  At least it becomes only lines, circles, and text.  Ditto for all the blocks I have developed over the 30 odd years.

Richard

[RAFUSE]

Oops.  Make that explode!

[Anonymous]

i want to know how to protect drawing file in CAD from editing. I need to submit soft copy for approval from consultant. if i give without editing protection they can make that drawing there own so please help me

[ennujozlagam]

@Anonymous hello, if you worried about the changes they made from your drawing (i know you have backup files for your drawing when you send to them) download the DWG Compare from autodesk app store and compare if there is any changes. thanks

[Anonymous]

Thank you Mr. Ennujozlaqam

Your Solution is good,but that consultant my drawing using in other project just like copy paste.

So i need to lock or password protection with my drawings.

Just its like PDF protection i am sure you have knowledge about that.

So my concern is nobody want to edit my drawing without my acknowledgement.

Thanks,

best regards

Vipin. Nambrath 

[RobDraw]

If you can't trust the client, do not share the file and stop working with them.

[john.vellek]

HI @Anonymous,.

Locking a file is not an option at this point although I have seen it requested frequently. One option however, might be to share DWF files in lieu of DWG files. They will retain the quality of vector geometry but not be editable easily. There seems to always be a way to defeat any process but this might work for your client.

Please select the Accept as Solution button if my post solves your issue or answers your question.

[RobDraw]

Your points are valid. If this is really happening, your client, at a minimum, should not be your client anymore.

Do you really want to work for someone that is stealing from you?

I would also consider suing for the money you should have earned when they did that.

[Anonymous]

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@Anonymous wrote:

So my concern is nobody want to edit my drawing without my acknowledgement.

There is no lock that cannot be picked.  A lock only keeps honest people honest, if they want your file and you provide a DWG, they will have your file.

[Anonymous]

What is the process on the other end to import the DWF?

[Anonymous]

You can "INSERT" a DWF underlay into an AutoCAD DWG file.  Or simply view the DWF with a viewer like DWGTRUEVIEW.

[john.vellek · Accepted solution]

HI @Anonymous,

If the DWF doesn't work you could perhaps also consider using MINSERT to make the DWG a block that cannot as easily be exploded.

In my opinion, if you really can't trust the party with whom you are sharing then you might consider giving them a raster PDF or a TIFF. Both should print properly but will be un-editable for the most part.

Please select the Accept as Solution button if my post solves your issue or answers your question.