What is the TrustedDWG: Explore the Benefits and the system variable values

Introduction to TrustedDWG:

AutoCAD software uses the TrustedDWG file format to ensure the reliability and integrity of CAD drawings. This format is designed to guarantee that the DWG files created or modified in one version of AutoCAD can be opened, edited, and saved in other versions without any compatibility issues. The primary purpose of TrustedDWG is to provide a consistent and reliable method for storing and sharing CAD drawings among different versions of AutoCAD software.

The process of identifying and verifying a DWG file's origin and authorship is of critical importance, particularly in professional and academic settings. In this regard, it is worth noting that Autodesk products and licensed developers exclusively use the RealDWG toolkit when creating or saving DWG files. The use of this toolkit ensures that DWG files are created and saved with the highest level of accuracy and precision, enabling architects, engineers, and other professionals to rely on the integrity of these files in their work.

Benefits of TrustedDWG:

• TrustedDWG is its ability to maintain the accuracy and fidelity of CAD drawings. By using this file format, designers and engineers can confidently share their work with others, knowing that the original intent will not be compromised during file conversions or collaborations.

• TrustedDWG helps you preserve the quality and reliability of your design data, as it prevents data loss, corruption, or inaccuracy that may occur when opening or saving DWG files with non-Autodesk products.

• TrustedDWG helps you maintain the compatibility and interoperability of your DWG files, as it ensures that you can open, edit, and share your files with other Autodesk products and services, such as BIM 360, Fusion 360, Revit, Inventor, and more.

• TrustedDWG helps you improve your productivity and efficiency, as it reduces the need for rework, conversion, or troubleshooting that may arise when working with non-Autodesk DWG files.

• TrustedDWG is a built-in feature of AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT, which means that you do not need to install or activate anything to use it.

• TrustedDWG is a transparent and non-intrusive feature, which means that it does not affect the performance or functionality of AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT, and it does not alter or modify your DWG files in any way.

Risks and disadvantages of TrustedDWG:

• One possible drawback is that it may limit compatibility with non-AutoCAD software applications. While DWG files can be converted to other formats for use in different programs, there may still be some loss of information or formatting during conversion.

• TrustedDWG may not be able to detect or prevent all possible issues or errors that may occur when working with non-Autodesk DWG files, as some of them may be subtle or complex.

• TrustedDWG may not be updated or maintained as frequently or consistently as AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT, which means that it may not be able to recognize or verify the latest versions or features of Autodesk products or services.

• TrustedDWG may not be able to protect your DWG files from malicious or unauthorized access, modification, or deletion, as it does not provide any encryption or security measures.

• TrustedDWG may not be able to recover your DWG files from accidental or intentional damage, corruption, or deletion, as it does not provide any backup or restoration functions.

DWGCHECK (System Variable):

AutoCAD has a system variable called DWGCHECK, which controls how it alerts you when you open or save a DWG file that does not pass the TrustedDWG test. By default, DWGCHECK is set to 1, which means that AutoCAD will display a dialog box, a command line message, and a system tray icon, warning you about the potential risks or issues of the untrusted DWG file.

• Value 0, No warning is displayed for drawing files that were saved by an application other than one released by Autodesk or based on RealDWG. If the drawing is corrupt, an error notification dialog box is displayed.

• Value 1, Both a warning dialog box and a Command line warning are displayed for drawing files that were saved by an application other than one released by Autodesk or based on RealDWG. If the drawing is corrupt, an error notification dialog box is displayed.

• Value 2, A warning is displayed on the Command line only for drawing files that were saved by an application other than one released by Autodesk or based on RealDWG. If the drawing is corrupt, the errors are ignored and the drawing is opened if possible.

• Value 3, Both a warning dialog box and a Command line warning are displayed for drawing files that were saved by an application other than one released by Autodesk or based on RealDWG. If the drawing is corrupt, the errors are ignored and the drawing is opened if possible.

• Value 4, A warning is displayed on the Command line only for drawing files that were saved by an application other than one released by Autodesk or based on RealDWG. If the drawing is corrupt, an error notification dialog box is displayed.

• Value 5, Both a warning dialog box and a Command line warning are displayed for drawing files that were saved by an application other than one released by Autodesk or based on RealDWG. If the drawing is corrupt, an error notification dialog box is displayed.

• Value 6, A warning is displayed on the Command line only for drawing files that were saved by an application other than one released by Autodesk or based on RealDWG. If the drawing is corrupt, the attempt at opening the drawing is aborted.

• Value 7, Both a warning dialog box and a Command line warning are displayed for drawing files that were saved by an application other than one released by Autodesk or based on RealDWG. If the drawing is corrupt, the attempt at opening the drawing is aborted.

Summary:

TrustedDWG provides numerous benefits such as maintaining drawing accuracy, supporting data preservation, and ensuring compatibility with AutoCAD versions. However, it's crucial to exercise caution when dealing with untrusted DWG files to mitigate any potential risks associated with security and system stability concerns.