How Do I Restore a Backup File in AutoCAD?

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Restoring a backup file in AutoCAD is a straightforward process that ensures you never lose your work due to unforeseen circumstances. Whether you accidentally deleted an important drawing or your file became corrupt, having a backup can save the day. In this tutorial, we will walk you through the steps to restore a backup file in AutoCAD.

Step 1: Locate the Backup File

If you have enabled the automatic save feature in AutoCAD, the software creates backup files with a .bak extension. These backups are typically saved in the same location as your original drawing file. To locate the backup file, follow these steps:

  1. Open Windows Explorer by pressing Windows key + E.

  2. Navigate to the folder where your original drawing file is saved.

  3. Look for a file with the same name as your original file but with a .

Step 2: Rename and Restore

Once you have located the backup file, follow these steps to restore it:

  1. Select the backup file by clicking on it once.

  2. Right-click on the selected file and choose Rename.

  3. Delete the .bak extension from the end of the filename.

  4. Press Enter to save the new filename.

  5. Double-click on the renamed file to open it in AutoCAD.

Note:

If you cannot see file extensions in Windows Explorer, you can enable them by following these steps:

  1. Open Windows Explorer.

  2. Click on the View tab in the toolbar.

  3. In the Show/hide section, check the box that says File name extensions.

Step 3: Save the Restored File

After opening the restored backup file, it is crucial to save it with a new name or overwrite the original file if it was lost or corrupted. To save the restored file, follow these steps:

  1. Click on the File tab in AutoCAD.

  2. Select Save As.

  3. In the Save Drawing As dialog box, choose a location to save the file.

  4. Type a new name for the file if you want to create a copy or leave it as is to overwrite the original file.

  5. Click on the Save button.

Congratulations!

You have successfully restored a backup file in AutoCAD. It’s always a good practice to regularly create backups of your important work to prevent any potential loss. With AutoCAD’s automatic save feature and your newfound knowledge of restoring backup files, you can continue working confidently knowing that your progress is secure.

If you have any further questions or need assistance with AutoCAD, feel free to consult Autodesk’s official documentation or community forums for additional support. Happy designing!