wont bring up file automatically when the program starts up

[1badzombie]

Just upgraded from 2018 to 2024, on the old program when i clicked on the program it loaded the program and brought up the file i clicked on, with the new version it brings up the program but the file doesn't load automatically, i have to open it myself.  Second problem, when i click on a second file.  it opens 2nd autocad and does want to just use the program that's up and running already. I I have to drag the file to the tab area to put it on the same program.

[paullimapa]

following instructions on this link:

https://www.autodesk.com/support/technical/article/caas/sfdcarticles/sfdcarticles/Double-clicking-a-...

[paullimapa]

also try follow instructions on this link:

https://www.autodesk.com/support/technical/article/caas/sfdcarticles/sfdcarticles/DWG-file-type-asso...

[AllenJessup]

Honestly I think double clicking on a file in Explorer is one of the worst ways to open a drawing file. If you want to work from Explorer. Drag the first file to the AutoCAD desktop icon. Other files drag them to the File Tab line.

[ZMann3GLKZ]

I would recommend uninstalling your old versions of autocad. I had the same problem. That fixed it for me.

[TomBeauford]

Why not upgrade to the current 2026 version with the newest features instead?

Gonna be a learning curve either way and any issues you find may have already been fixed.