AutoCAD takes a long time to start

Issue

Solution

A solution to the underlying issue in .NET Framework was included by Microsoft in Service Pack 1 for .NET 2.0.

You can download this service pack from the following web page:

Service Pack 1 for .NET Framework 2.0

For AutoCAD 2007 and 2008, in addition to installing the service pack for .NET, you also need to modify the acad.exe.config file. Follow these steps:

1. In Windows Explorer, navigate to the folder where AutoCAD is installed. For AutoCAD 2008, this is typically C:\Program Files\AutoCAD 2008
2. Locate the acad.exe.config file.
3. Make a backup copy of this file, and then rename the copy, acad.exe.config.BAK.
4. Open the acad.exe.config file with a text editor, such as Microsoft® Notepad.
5. Select all text, and then delete it.
6. Copy and paste the following text into the document:
   
   <configuration>
   <startup>
<!--We always use the latest version of the framework installed on the computer. If you
are having problems then explicitly specify .NET 2.0 by uncommenting the following line.
  <supportedRuntime version="v2.0.50727"/>
-->
   </startup>
<!--All assemblies in AutoCAD are fully trusted so there's no point generating publisher evidence-->
   <runtime>       
 <generatePublisherEvidence enabled="false"/>   
   </runtime>
</configuration>


7. Save and close the file.

See also

AutoCAD® freezes during startup