| Release Era | Recommended ACAD Usage | |-------------|--------------------------| | | Set a single shared folder for company menus and linetypes. | | 2000i – 2008 | Avoid generic ACAD if running multiple versions. Use batch scripts to set ACAD per session. | | 2009 – 2020 | Use version‑specific variables (e.g., ACAD_2018 ) for core files; use ACAD only for truly version‑neutral content (e.g., fonts). | | 2021 – present | Prefer profile‑based paths in CUI/Options. Use ACAD only for legacy deployments or when IT needs system‑level control. |
used in the software's registry and code, which differ from the public "year-based" names. While users see "AutoCAD 2026," the environment sees "R25.1". autodesk autocad --env.acad release name-