Update Size and Installation Time

[IanYeager]

Can someone tell me what the expected time is to install Revit or any of its updates?

We are finding the update files in the GB size and time to install are in the hour range. 

It's a slow painful process.

Is there anything IT might be able to set or control to make it use more resources during install?

My CPU is barely in use and I would prefer for the process to take all it can to get it done faster.

Any insight would be appreciated.

Thanks.

[jeremy_tammik]

Sorry, this is entirely the wrong place to raise such a question:

• https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/revit-api-forum/this-forum-is-for-revit-api-programming-questions-not...

But, just in order to provide you with a quick answer anyway, I went ahead and passed on the question to Gemini. It replies:

• https://g.co/gemini/share/1e04fcf231df

Absolutely. This is a common pain point for Revit users and IT administrators alike. Let's break down the update size and installation time issue, and explore potential solutions.

Understanding the Problem

• Large Update Sizes: Revit updates often involve significant changes to the core engine, content libraries, and add-in compatibility. This necessitates large file sizes, especially for major version updates.
• Sequential Installation: Revit updates, particularly major releases, often follow a sequential installation process. This means that certain components must be installed before others, limiting the potential for parallel processing.
• Resource Throttling: The installer might be designed to limit resource usage to prevent system instability during the update process.
• Storage Speed: The speed of the storage drive (HDD vs. SSD) significantly impacts installation time.
• Network Speed: If the update is downloaded from a network location, network bandwidth and latency can affect download and installation speeds.
• Antivirus and Security Software: Real-time scanning by antivirus software can interfere with the installation process, slowing it down considerably.

Potential Solutions and Optimizations

1. Storage Optimization:

   • SSD is Essential: Strongly recommend installing Revit and its updates on a Solid State Drive (SSD). SSDs offer significantly faster read/write speeds compared to traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs). This will drastically reduce installation times.
   • Disk Defragmentation (HDDs): If using an HDD, ensure it is defragmented regularly. Fragmentation can slow down file access and installation.

2. Network Optimization (If Applicable):

   • Local Installation: If possible, download the update files to a local drive before initiating the installation. This eliminates network latency and bandwidth limitations.
   • Network Bandwidth: Ensure that sufficient network bandwidth is available, especially during peak usage times.

3. Resource Allocation (Limited Control):

   • Installer Design: Autodesk designs the installer to balance speed and stability. There is limited direct control over resource allocation during the installation process.
   • Background Processes: Close unnecessary applications and background processes to free up system resources.
   • Windows Updates: Ensure that Windows and other system updates are up-to-date. Outdated system components can sometimes cause compatibility issues and slow down installations.

4. Antivirus and Security Software:

   • Temporarily Disable: Consider temporarily disabling real-time scanning by antivirus software during the installation process. However, exercise caution and re-enable it immediately after the installation is complete.
   • Exclusion Lists: Add the Revit installation directory and update files to the antivirus software's exclusion list.

5. IT Management (Deployment Strategies):

   • Deployment Tools: IT administrators can leverage deployment tools like Microsoft SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager) or other software deployment platforms to distribute and install Revit updates efficiently. These tools often offer features for pre-caching updates and scheduling installations during off-peak hours.
   • Image Deployment: For large-scale deployments, consider creating a standardized Revit image with all necessary updates pre-installed. This image can then be deployed to multiple workstations, significantly reducing installation times.
   • Autodesk Account Deployment: For individual users, the Autodesk desktop app handles much of the update process, but network and local machine performance will still greatly impact the install.
   • Command Line Install: Autodesk installers can be run from the command line, with options to control some aspects of the install. While there is not a "use all cpu resources" option, it is a deployment method that IT professionals should investigate.

6. Autodesk Recommendations:

   • System Requirements: Always ensure that your system meets the minimum and recommended system requirements for the specific version of Revit being installed.
   • Autodesk Knowledge Network: Refer to the Autodesk Knowledge Network for official recommendations and troubleshooting tips related to Revit installation and updates.

Important Considerations:

• Installer Limitations: The Revit installer is designed with certain limitations to prevent system instability. Directly forcing it to use "all CPU resources" might lead to unexpected issues.
• Update Validation: A large portion of the time is spent validating the existing installation, and then validating the new files. This is to ensure that the Revit install remains stable.
• Content Library: Revit content libraries can be very large. If you do not need all of the content, consider customizing the installation to include only the necessary libraries.

Actionable Steps:

1. Prioritize SSD: If not already doing so, migrate Revit and its updates to an SSD.
2. Optimize Network (If Applicable): Ensure adequate network bandwidth and consider local installations.
3. Review Antivirus Settings: Temporarily disable or adjust antivirus settings during installation.
4. IT Deployment Strategies: IT administrators should explore deployment tools and image deployment options.
5. System Requirements: Verify that the system meets the recommended requirements.

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce Revit update installation times and improve the overall user experience.