How Do I Restore a Previous Version of an AutoCAD File?

Restoring a previous version of an AutoCAD file can be a lifesaver when you accidentally make unwanted changes or lose important data. In this tutorial, we will explore the step-by-step process to restore a previous version of an AutoCAD file.

Step 1: Locate the Previous Versions

If you are using AutoCAD 2018 or later versions, you have access to the Previous Version feature which automatically creates backup files. To locate these backup files:

  • Step 1.1: Open Windows Explorer and navigate to the folder where your AutoCAD file is saved.
  • Step 1.2: Right-click on the file and select “Properties” from the context menu.3: In the Properties window, switch to the “Previous Versions” tab.

Note: If you don’t see the “Previous Versions” tab, it means that your AutoCAD version does not support this feature, and you’ll need to rely on manual backups or third-party tools.

Step 2: Restore a Previous Version

If you have successfully located the previous versions of your AutoCAD file, follow these steps to restore a specific version:

  • Step 2.1: In the “Previous Versions” tab, you’ll see a list of available backups with their corresponding dates and times.
  • Step 2.2: Select the desired version from the list by clicking on it.3: Click on the “Restore” button at the bottom of the window.4: A confirmation dialog will appear. Click “Restore” to confirm your action.

Note: Restoring a previous version will overwrite your current file, so make sure you have a backup of your latest changes if needed.

Step 3: Verify the Restored Version

After restoring the previous version, it’s essential to verify if it meets your requirements. Open the restored file in AutoCAD and carefully review its content and functionality.

Tips

Tip 1: To avoid accidental loss of data, it is recommended to enable automatic saving or use the “Save As” feature regularly to create manual backups.

Tip 2: Consider using version control software or cloud storage solutions that provide revision history for better file management and recovery options.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, we have learned how to restore a previous version of an AutoCAD file. By following the step-by-step process outlined above, you can easily recover lost or unwanted changes and ensure the integrity of your work. Remember to always double-check the restored version before continuing with your project!