Read only Security lock for DWG files - Non-Editable file

[Anonymous]

Hello,

   How do we lock a dwg file so that the person that opens it can only view it? It should be read only and non-editable to 3rd user. 

   The read only function within windows won't work as it gives the person the ability to turn of the read only function and resave the file after modifying it. 

   We need to prevent any type of modificatons to the file by a third party user, ie. clients?

   As per my knowelege, we can publish or export dwg file into DWF/PDF format. DWF/PDF is the non-editable security file, but in our case, we are suppose to send only DWG file.

   Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks and Regards,

Amit Sharma

[Patchy]

There is no option for read only or locking a  .dwg.

You have to find a program like CADLOCK if the company still exist.

[Anonymous]

Thank you Patchy for reply.

Is there any other way except CADLOCK. Sorry but currently, we don't want to go for 3rd party application.

I mean, is there any chance, if we play with locking layers or making block or something like that? Any idea?

Thanks,

Amit Sharma

[Alfred.NESWADBA]

Hi,

>> As per my knowelege, we can publish or export dwg file into DWF/PDF format. DWF/PDF is the non-editable security file,

DWF yes (close to none editable), PDF is editable, but will have lost quality of vectors/precision and structure.

I would plot to DWF, send the user the DWF file and give him the download link of Autodesk DesignReview (free) >>>click<<< or tell the customer how he can reference the DWF into his drawings like an underlay (as you said a DWG is needed).

>> The read only function within windows won't work as it gives the person the ability to turn of the read only function

Any "read only" function in AutoCAD would enable the person to copy & paste the geometry into a drawing that is not set to readonly 😉

...or save the drawing to a DXF (maybe an old version of DXF) ... or ....

- alfred -

[Anonymous]

Thanks Alfred,

[pendean · Accepted solution]

I bet your client is not stupid... If your client asks for DWG files, why do you think your client is going to be satisfied with a locked DWG file? Wouldn't they simply ask for a PDF or DWF instead?

Pick up the phone, call your client, and ask permission to send them something else. If they insist on a DWG file they want an open/unlocked DWG file, then you need to refer to your contract with your client to confirm you can do that.

Think about it Amit: is your client that stupid to accept a locked DWG file?

[Anonymous]

Thanks Dean for reply.

I totally agree with your comments but our only concern is to restrict client also to do any further modification on that drawing without informing to us (especially in middle of the project).

If client start modification their own on that drawing without informing to us, then there will a chances for huge mis-match and later may be it will be difficult for us to incorporate all those changes because of space concern around that area. 

Ultimately, its client property and I have no issue to share final editable DWG file with them but in middle of the project, we want some restrictions. So, just for better flow/smooth process, we need these restrictions. 

Thanks for the phone advise. I'll check with them once again. 

Thanks and Regards,

Amit Sharma

[dgorsman · Accepted solution]

Chances are they want the drawing for as-building and other documentation of updates, so while a locked file may be within the letter of the contract you can be certain that client will not be returning with more business.

As for controlling whether the client makes changes; well, thats what the issue process is for.  Drawings are issued at certain stages where all parties agree and approve.  That includes signatures, and where necessary permit stamps.  These become the drawings of record, and anything *anybody* does outside of this is considered not relevant.  Anybody who uses a unofficial copy (the term "bootleg" is normally used) to do further work inherently risks being contradicted by the next issued release and they have the resposibility to change, not the other way around.

[Anonymous]

Thanks Dgorsman. 

Agree and all points are clear to me.

Thanks and Regards,

Amit Sharma