Computer Software

How to Completely Uninstall AutoCAD and Autodesk Products on Windows

Posted on by Kevin Brooks

If you encounter persistent errors while installing or updating AutoCAD and other Autodesk software, a simple uninstallation is often insufficient. Residual files, registry keys, and corrupted configuration settings can block new installations. To resolve these issues, you must perform a clean uninstallation, which involves completely purging your system of all Autodesk-related components before attempting a fresh installation. This guide outlines the professional steps to ensure a total removal on Windows systems.

(Note: If you are using macOS, please refer to the specific documentation for removing Autodesk software on Mac platforms.)

Essential Preparation Before Uninstallation

Before initiating the removal process, take these critical steps to protect your environment and ensure the process runs smoothly:

  • Back Up Custom Data: Secure all personalized files, including custom menus, AutoLISP code, PGP files, and individual workspace configurations. A clean uninstallation is designed to erase all Autodesk components from your computer permanently.
  • Restart Your System: Always perform a system restart before starting the uninstallation process to clear pending Windows updates and lock-free temporary system states.

Standard Uninstallation Process

For most users, the standard uninstallation through the Windows Control Panel is the first line of defense against installation issues.

  1. Open the Windows Control Panel and navigate to Uninstall a program.

  2. Locate the specific Autodesk product (e.g., AutoCAD) in the list.

  3. Click Uninstall/Change.

  4. Select Uninstall and click Next to confirm your choice. When prompted regarding shared files, confirm by selecting Yes to All.

Note: Be cautious with shared material libraries used across multiple products. Do not remove these unless you intend to uninstall all Autodesk applications. If removal is necessary, uninstall the medium-resolution image library first, followed by the base-resolution library and the main Autodesk material library.

  1. Once the process completes, click Finish and restart your computer if prompted.

Using the Microsoft Installation Troubleshooter

If residual files remain after the standard uninstallation, they can cause “ghost” errors during re-installation. In such cases, use the official Microsoft Program Install and Uninstall Troubleshooter. Download the utility, run the executable, and follow the on-screen instructions to identify and remove remaining installation hooks.

Performing a Clean Uninstallation

A clean uninstallation is a comprehensive procedure reserved for scenarios where standard methods fail, such as:

  • Failed upgrades to newer versions.
  • Interrupted initial installations.
  • Software that fails to launch despite a “successful” installation status.

Step-by-Step Clean Removal

  1. Use the Uninstall Tool: Search for the Autodesk Uninstall Tool in the Windows Start menu, open it, and select all Autodesk software for removal. (Skip if the tool is not present).
  2. Standard Removal: Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter. Manually uninstall any remaining Autodesk applications.
  3. Clear Service Components: Navigate to C:Program FilesAutodeskAdODISV1 and run RemoveODIS.exe to purge Autodesk Access. Then, go to C:Program Files (x86)Common FilesAutodesk Shared and run AdskLicensinguninstall.exe.
  4. Final Troubleshooter Check: Run the Microsoft Troubleshooter mentioned in the previous section once more to ensure no background hooks remain.
  5. Clear Temporary Files: Press Win + R, type %temp%, and hit Enter. Delete all contents of the folder, skipping any files currently in use.
  6. Purge Configuration Folders: Delete the following directories:
  • C:Program FilesAutodesk
  • C:Program FilesCommon FilesAutodesk Shared
  • C:Program Files (x86)Autodesk
  • C:Program Files (x86)Common FilesAutodesk Shared
  • C:ProgramDataAutodesk
  • %localappdata%Autodesk
  • %appdata%Autodesk
  1. Clean the Registry: Open the Registry Editor (REGEDIT) and locate the following paths to delete them:
  • ComputerHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREAutodesk
  • ComputerHKEY_CURRENT_USERSOFTWAREAutodesk

Warning: Modifying the Windows Registry incorrectly can result in system instability. Always create a Windows Registry backup before proceeding with these deletions. After completing the cleanup, restart your machine and temporarily disable any antivirus software before attempting a fresh installation.

References

Kevin Brooks

Kevin Brooks — Web Developer Kevin maintains DogCareStory.com’s technical health, ensuring smooth navigation, fast loading times, and accessibility across devices.