How Autodesk Licenses Work: Everything You Need to Know About Subscriptions

Confused about how Autodesk licenses work? Unlike traditional software that uses product keys, Autodesk switched to subscription-based licensing tied to your Autodesk Account. This change has left many users wondering how activation, installation, and usage actually work.

In this complete guide, we explain exactly how Autodesk subscriptions function, from purchase to activation, so you know what to expect when you buy AutoCAD, Fusion 360, or any other Autodesk software.

How Autodesk Licensing Works (The Basics)

Old Way (Before 2020):

• Buy perpetual license with product key
• Install software, enter key, done
• License tied to computer hardware

New Way (Current System):

• Purchase subscription (12 months, 36 months, etc.)
• License tied to your Autodesk Account (not computer)
• Download and activate through Autodesk Account
• Works on up to 3 devices but only 1 active session at a time

What Is a “Named User Subscription”?

Named User Subscription means the license is assigned to a specific person (you), not a computer or shared pool.

Key Characteristics:

• Personal license tied to your Autodesk ID
• Install on up to 3 devices (PC, Mac, laptop)
• Only 1 active session at a time
• Cannot be shared with other users
• Includes web and mobile access

What This Means for You:

✅ Flexibility: Use on multiple devices
✅ Portability: Access from anywhere with internet
✅ Updates: Always get latest version
❌ No sharing: Each person needs their own license
❌ Internet required: Periodic online check-in needed

Step-by-Step: How to Activate Your Autodesk License

Step 1: Receive Your License Information

After purchase, you’ll receive:

• Autodesk Account email (if you don’t have one)
• Subscription details and duration
• Download instructions

Step 2: Set Up Your Autodesk Account

1. Go to manage.autodesk.com
2. Sign in or create new Autodesk Account
3. Verify your email address
4. Your subscription will appear in “All Products & Services”

Step 3: Download the Software

1. Click your product (AutoCAD, Fusion 360, etc.)
2. Click “Install” or “Download”
3. Download the installer for your OS (Windows/Mac)
4. Run installer and follow setup wizard

Step 4: Sign In and Activate

1. Launch the software
2. Sign in with your Autodesk Account credentials
3. Software activates automatically (no product key needed!)
4. Start using immediately

Important License Rules You Must Follow

The “1 Active Session” Rule

• You can install on 3 devices (home PC, work laptop, etc.)
• But only 1 person can use it at 1 time
• Starting the software on a second device while it’s running elsewhere violates the license

Example Scenarios:

✅ Allowed: Install on work PC and home laptop, use only one at a time
✅ Allowed: Close software on PC, then open on laptop
❌ Violation: Software running on both PC and laptop simultaneously
❌ Violation: Two people sharing the same Autodesk Account

Internet Connection Requirements

• Periodic check-in required (every 30 days)
• Initial activation needs internet
• Offline use possible for short periods
• License verification happens in background

Different Types of Autodesk Subscriptions

Individual Subscriptions (What Most People Buy)

• Single user access
• Personal Autodesk Account
• Up to 3 device installations
• 12-month or 36-month terms

Business Subscriptions (For Companies)

• Multiple user management
• Admin controls and reporting
• Centralized billing
• Volume licensing available

Flex Subscriptions (Pay-Per-Use)

• 24-hour access periods
• No long-term commitment
• Good for occasional use
• Token-based system

What Happens When Your Subscription Expires?

30 Days Before Expiration:

• Email reminders sent to your account
• Grace period begins
• Software still works normally

At Expiration:

• Software stops working (becomes view-only)
• Cannot create or edit files
• Can still view existing projects
• Subscription renewal required to continue

After Expiration:

• Files remain yours (saved locally)
• Cloud projects may become inaccessible
• Renew anytime to restore full access

Common Autodesk License Questions Answered

“Can I use my license on my home and work computer?”

Yes, as long as you’re the only person using it and you don’t run it simultaneously on both machines.

“Can I share my license with my colleague?”

No. Each person needs their own Named User Subscription. Sharing violates Autodesk’s terms.

“What if I get a new computer?”

Easy. Just download and install on the new computer using your Autodesk Account. You can deactivate the old computer if needed.

“Do I need internet to use the software?”

Not constantly, but periodic check-ins are required (every 30 days). Extended offline use will eventually lock the software.

“Can I install older versions?”

Yes. Your subscription includes access to previous versions through your Autodesk Account downloads.

“What happens to my files if I cancel?”

Your files are yours forever. Local files remain accessible, but cloud-stored projects may become read-only.

Troubleshooting Common Activation Issues

“Software says license not found”

Solutions:

• Check internet connection
• Sign out and sign back in
• Clear Autodesk licensing cache
• Contact Autodesk support

“Cannot sign in to Autodesk Account”

Solutions:

• Verify email and password
• Check for account lockout
• Try password reset
• Use different browser/device

“License already in use on another device”

Solutions:

• Close software on other devices
• Sign out from all devices and sign back in
• Check for background processes
• Wait 10-15 minutes and retry

“Subscription not showing in account”

Solutions:

• Check correct Autodesk Account email
• Allow 24 hours for processing
• Contact support with purchase receipt
• Verify subscription activation

Managing Your Autodesk Subscription

View Subscription Status:

1. Go to manage.autodesk.com
2. Click your product tile
3. View Details shows expiration date and status

Download Previous Versions:

1. In your product details
2. Click “View download history”
3. Select version and download

Manage Devices:

1. Product details page
2. Manage License section
3. View active installations
4. Remove unused devices if needed

Why Autodesk Switched to Subscriptions

Benefits for Users:

• Always up-to-date software
• Web and mobile access included
• Cloud collaboration features
• Technical support included
• Cross-device flexibility

Benefits for Autodesk:

• Predictable revenue stream
• Reduced piracy
• Better customer support
• Faster feature delivery
• Usage analytics for improvements

Final Thoughts

Autodesk’s subscription model is different from traditional software licensing, but it offers significant advantages once you understand how it works.

Key takeaways:

• License tied to your Autodesk Account, not computer
• Install on 3 devices, use 1 at a time
• Internet required for activation and periodic check-ins
• Always get latest updates and features
• Renewal required to continue using

The most important rule: Only you can use your license, and only on one device at a time. Follow this, and you’ll have no issues with Autodesk licensing.

Get Your Autodesk Subscription at the Best Price

At DigitaLicence, we offer genuine Autodesk subscriptions with full activation support:

🚀 Our Autodesk Products:

• AutoCAD LT 2026: € 79 (Official: €420/year)
• Fusion 360: €79 (Official: €545/year)
• AutoCAD Full: €79 (Official: €1,785/year)
• All 12 & 36-month subscriptions available

✅ What You Get:

• 100% genuine Autodesk subscriptions
• Instant account setup and activation
• Full technical support throughout subscription
• Guaranteed activation – we handle any issues
• Significant savings vs. official Autodesk pricing

Tired of confusing licensing? We make Autodesk subscriptions simple. Purchase, activate, and start creating—with full support every step of the way.

Browse Autodesk Products or contact our Autodesk specialists for expert guidance.

---

Need help with other software licenses? Check out our guides on Windows activation and Adobe subscriptions.