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Cloud software is flexible, affordable and secure
Typically, CAD software is installed on your local computer, is updated to newer versions on a schedule (for example, every year or few years) and is licensed on a perpetual basis.
Cloud CAD software offers many of the same abilities as traditional CAD software, but runs in a browser or provides cloud services through an app, is updated on a remote server and is acquired by paying a fee, usually on a monthly or annual basis.
Cloud software lets you:
- Use the extra computing power of the cloud for intensive tasks.
- Securely save and back up your files automatically.
- Get the latest upgrades and updates instantly, with no work on your part.
- Access your files when you are away from the office or in the field.
- Look at your work with clients at the same time, no matter where you are.
- Do your best work, freed from your desk.
Benefits of cloud and online CAD
Cloud and online software can provide benefits beyond what can be found in traditional software.
Design anywhere
Take the power of Autodesk cloud software with you wherever you go. Draft, edit and view CAD designs on different computers and devices. Access and edit designs from cloud storage systems.
Greater collaboration
Cut down communication time and bring design teams together in an environment that harnesses the power of the cloud. Keep team members updated with the most recent designs and plans.
Streamlined workflows
Streamline your drafting, review and revision workflows. Track projects, add comments and share project files online or via your mobile device.
Fusion 360 – 3D CAD/CAM in the cloud
Fusion 360 is the first 3D CAD, CAM and CAE tool of its kind. It connects your entire product development process in a single cloud-based platform that works on both Mac and PC.
Collaborate with your team, control version management, render models and share or publish your designs - all in the cloud.
Try for free or subscribe (US site)
Autodesk cloud services
Design in the cloud using Autodesk cloud services. Edit, collaborate and render in the cloud. Upload and access files anytime and anywhere.
Whether you need to work with others on a mockup or render a 3D image, adding cloud services to your Autodesk software helps you to get the job done faster.
Featured software
Fusion 360 (US site)
Fusion 360 combines industrial and mechanical design with collaboration in an easy-to-use, affordable cloud-based 3D CAD tool.
AutoCAD 360
The free AutoCAD 360 app lets you redline drawings onsite, store files in the cloud, collaborate in real time and share DWG™ files.
A360
A360 is a cloud collaboration tool that helps engineers and designers view, share, review and find 2D and 3D design and project files in one central workspace.
Tinkercad
Tinkercad is a free online 3D modelling tool for hobbyists, teachers and students of all ages. Make home decor, toys, Minecraft models and more.
Additional cloud and online CAD resources
The implications for CAD in the cloud (US site). Take a look at how CAD is applying some of the abilities of the cloud and what it means in terms of advantages and disadvantages for engineers.
Enabling design agility with CAD in the cloud (PDF) (US site). Learn how CAD-based cloud addresses design needs compared to traditional CAD.
6 reasons why you should leap into the cloud. Here's why jumping into the cloud is good for your small business.
Take to the cloud (PDF). This eBook from Autodesk explores what the cloud is and the improvements in productivity, agility and efficiency it can bring to your business.
Autodesk 360 mobile cloud computing apps (US site). Autodesk 360 services include a portfolio of mobile apps that let you access designs and work on your mobile and tablet devices.
Understanding the Autodesk cloud. What we mean by SAAS, PAAS, IAAS and how A360 and AutoCAD 360 fit into our cloud strategy.
Better construction co-ordination reinforces the general-contractor–subcontractor relationship. Cloud-based co-ordination tools enable greater communication and collaboration among contractors driving major construction projects.
Entire studios in the cloud: future of entertainment and cloud-computing adoption. Small but mighty visual effects studios disrupt the media and entertainment industry by using cloud technology for film production, management and collaboration.