How to Fix AutoCAD Default File Location & File Association Issues After an Upgrade

AutoCAD users sometimes face issues after upgrading, especially when trying to open .DWG files directly from File Explorer. A common problem occurs when AutoCAD refuses to change the default file location, leading to error messages when opening files.

If you recently upgraded from AutoCAD 2022 to 2024 and are encountering this issue, follow these steps to fix it.

Common AutoCAD Error Message

When attempting to open a .DWG file directly from File Explorer, you may see the following error:

Windows cannot find 'C:\Program Files\Autodesk\AutoCAD LT 2022\acadlt.exe'. Make sure you typed the name correctly, and then try again.

This occurs because Windows is still linking .DWG files to the old AutoCAD 2022 path, even though you have installed AutoCAD 2024.

Why Does This Happen?

There are several reasons why AutoCAD may not update the default file location:

• File associations still point to an older version – Even after uninstalling AutoCAD 2022, Windows may still link .DWG files to its outdated path.
• Registry keys did not update properly – The Windows registry might still reference the old AutoCAD installation path, preventing changes.
• Windows security restrictions – Windows 11 has stricter security policies compared to Windows 10, which may cause permission issues.

How to Fix AutoCAD’s Default File Location Issue

Set AutoCAD 2024 as the Default App for .DWG Files

To manually set AutoCAD 2024 as the default program:

1. Right-click any .DWG file and select Open With > Choose another app.
2. Click More Apps and then Look for another app on this PC.
3. Navigate to: C:\Program Files\Autodesk\AutoCAD 2024\acad.exe or C:\Program Files\Autodesk\AutoCAD 2024\acadlt.exe
4. Check the box Always use this app to open .DWG files and click OK.

If this does not work, proceed with the registry fix below.

Fix the Issue Using the Windows Registry

Editing the Windows Registry can resolve persistent file association issues.

Warning: Making incorrect registry changes can affect system stability. Proceed with caution or contact Hexafusion for support.

Step 1: Remove Old AutoCAD Registry Entries

1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to: HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT
3. Find and delete the following registry keys:
   • .dwg
   • .dxf
   • .dwt

Step 2: Remove AutoCAD Entries Under FileExts

1. Go to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FileExts
2. Find and delete the same registry keys: .dwg, .dxf, .dwt.

Step 3: Restart and Reassociate AutoCAD

1. Restart your computer.
2. Follow the steps in the Set AutoCAD 2024 as Default App section above.

Other Fixes If the Issue Persists

Repair AutoCAD Installation

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps.
2. Find AutoCAD 2024 and click Modify or Repair.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your PC.

Create a New Windows User Profile

If the issue affects only one user, try creating a new Windows user account and test AutoCAD under that profile.

Final Thoughts

If AutoCAD is still pointing to an old file location, the issue likely stems from incorrect file associations or registry entries. The registry method has been tested successfully and should resolve the problem in most cases.

Need help? Hexafusion provides expert IT support for AutoCAD installations, Windows troubleshooting, and more.

Support: 604-332-1500

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