AutoCAD is a powerful software tool used by professionals in various industries such as architecture, engineering, and design. Many users wonder how long an AutoCAD license lasts before they need to renew or upgrade. In this article, we will explore the different types of AutoCAD licenses and their durations.
Types of AutoCAD Licenses
There are primarily two types of AutoCAD licenses available: perpetual licenses and subscription licenses.
1. Perpetual Licenses
A perpetual license allows you to use a specific version of AutoCAD indefinitely. You pay a one-time fee upfront for the license and own it forever. This means you can continue using the licensed version even if you choose not to upgrade in the future.
Perpetual licenses are no longer available for purchase directly from Autodesk. However, if you already own a perpetual license, it will continue to function normally.
2. Subscription Licenses
A subscription license is a popular choice among AutoCAD users today. With a subscription, you pay an annual or monthly fee to access the latest version of AutoCAD and receive ongoing support and updates.
Subscription licenses are more flexible compared to perpetual licenses. They allow you to easily upgrade to newer versions as they become available without any additional cost. This ensures that you always have access to the latest features and improvements in AutoCAD.
Durations of AutoCAD Licenses
The duration of an AutoCAD license depends on the type of license you choose:
- Perpetual License: As mentioned earlier, perpetual licenses do not have an expiration date. Once purchased, you can use the licensed version indefinitely without any time constraints.
- Subscription License: Subscription licenses have different durations depending on the subscription plan you select. Autodesk offers monthly, annual, and multi-year subscription options.
For monthly subscriptions, the license is valid for 30 days from the date of purchase. You need to renew your subscription every month to continue using AutoCAD.
Annual subscriptions provide a longer duration of access. With an annual subscription, you can use AutoCAD for a full year from the date of purchase. Once the year is over, you will need to renew your subscription if you wish to continue using AutoCAD.
If you opt for a multi-year subscription, you can enjoy uninterrupted access to AutoCAD for multiple years without having to renew your license annually.
Conclusion
In summary, perpetual licenses allow indefinite use of a specific version of AutoCAD, while subscription licenses require periodic renewal. The duration of a subscription license depends on the plan chosen – monthly, annual, or multi-year.
Remember: Whether you choose a perpetual or subscription license, it’s important to keep your AutoCAD software up-to-date to take advantage of new features and improvements that Autodesk releases regularly.
Now that you understand how long AutoCAD licenses last, you can make an informed decision based on your requirements and budget.