Can I Delete BAK Files AutoCAD?

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Can I Delete BAK Files AutoCAD?

AutoCAD is a powerful software used by professionals in various industries for designing and drafting purposes. When working on AutoCAD, you may come across files with the .bak extension. These files are created automatically by the software as backup copies of your drawings.

What are BAK files?

BAK files, short for backup files, are created by AutoCAD to provide a safety net in case your original drawing becomes corrupted or gets accidentally deleted. These files contain a duplicate copy of your drawing as it was when the backup was last saved. They can be a lifesaver if something goes wrong with your primary drawing file.

Should I delete BAK files?

The decision to delete BAK files depends on your workflow and risk tolerance. While they serve as a safety net, they can also occupy valuable disk space over time. Deleting them can free up storage on your computer or network drive.

How to delete BAK files in AutoCAD?

If you decide to delete the BAK files, you can do so manually or use AutoCAD’s built-in tools.

Method 1: Manual deletion

  • Step 1: Open Windows Explorer and navigate to the folder where your AutoCAD drawings are stored.
  • Step 2: Look for the .bak files with the same name as your original drawing file.
  • Step 3: Select the .bak files you want to delete and press the “Delete” key on your keyboard.

Method 2: Using AutoCAD’s built-in tools

  • Step 1: Open AutoCAD and go to the “Application” menu (the big red A in the top-left corner).
  • Step 2: Select “Drawing Utilities” and then choose “Recover”.
  • Step 3: In the “Recover Drawing” dialog box, select the drawing file you want to recover and click “OK”.
  • Step 4: AutoCAD will attempt to recover your drawing. If successful, you can safely delete the corresponding BAK file.

Precautions before deleting BAK files

Before deleting any BAK files, it’s important to ensure that your original drawing is not corrupted or incomplete. Make sure to save a backup copy of your drawing in a safe location before proceeding with the deletion.

In conclusion

BAK files in AutoCAD serve as a safety net but can also take up valuable disk space. If you have a reliable backup system in place or if you are confident in the stability of your drawings, deleting BAK files can help free up storage. However, always exercise caution and double-check that your primary drawing file is intact before removing any backups.