Question 1

Can I buy a BricsCAD license for older versions?

Accepted Answer

You can only buy a BricsCAD license for the most recent BricsCAD version. However, this license can be used on previous versions of BricsCAD no older than V14.

Question 2

How do I transfer my license to another computer?

Accepted Answer

To move a single license to another computer (license can be transferred between Mac and PC):
1.	First, deactivate your license on the old computer.
2.	Once the license is deactivated, you can activate it again on another computer.

All your valid licenses can be found on the Bricsys website in [My Account > Licenses and Support Contracts](https://boa.bricsys.com/protected/account/licenses) (login required).

Question 3

I get an error when trying to run the BricsCAD installer for Mac. How should I proceed?

Accepted Answer

To install and run BricsCAD on macOS 10.15,  you need to explicitly select "Open Anyway". This option is available via System Preferences > Security & Privacy > General, or when using a right-click to open the application.

Question 4

Can I trial a BricsCAD Network license?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a 30-day trial of a BricsCAD Network license is available upon request. Please [contact us](https://www.bricsys.com/contact-sales "Contact Bricsys Sales") or [your local partner](https://www.bricsys.com/find-local-reseller "Find your Bricsys Reseller") directly for assistance.
Please note that Network licenses require the setup and management of a local License Server, which should be administered by a qualified Network or System Administrator.
Comprehensive instructions for deploying and managing a Network license can be found in the [Bricsys Help Center](https://help.bricsys.com "Bricsys Help Center").

Question 5

When transferring BricsCAD to a new device, how do I transfer my preferences and settings from my old computer to the new one?

Accepted Answer

Use the User Profile Manager tool to export your settings to an .arg  file, copy it to the new device, and import it again. Manually copy any custom templates or plot styles. Find more details on the [Help Center](https://help.bricsys.com/document/?id=165079143756 "User profiles - Help Center").

Question 6

What payment options are available in the Bricsys online store?

Accepted Answer

Paddle accepts major credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. You can also choose to pay securely using PayPal or Wire transfer in regions where our prices are displayed in EUR, USD or GBP.

Question 7

I have an older version of BricsCAD. How can I upgrade my license?

Accepted Answer

We support BricsCAD upgrades up to 3 versions back. To explore your upgrade options, visit [bricsys.com](https://www.bricsys.com "Bricsys website"), log in to your Bricsys account, and navigate to ‘[Licenses and Support Contracts](https://boa.bricsys.com/protected/account/licenses "My account - Licenses and Support Contracts")’. There, you’ll see your current licenses and available upgrades.

Question 8

What is a BricsCAD Network License?

Accepted Answer

A network license allows many users on the same TCP/IP network to access a shared pool of BricsCAD licenses. BricsCAD uses the Reprise NLM (Network License Manager), which you install on a central server on your premises. The network license manager controls the distribution of the license pool.

Network licensing is available at an additional cost per license. Also, we require that all your networked seats are kept on BricsCAD Maintenance. Your Bricsys Reseller or Business Development Manager can give you more information on network license pricing.

Question 9

Can I use my BricsCAD license all around the world?

Accepted Answer

Licenses purchased in Latin America, South Korea, Bangladesh, Pakistan India, ASEAN countries (except Singapore), Central Asian countries, China, Japan and European countries that are not part of the European Union can only be used in the country of purchase. [Contact Bricsys](https://www.bricsys.com/contact-sales "Contact Bricsys Sales") if you need more information or if you want to purchase licenses in these countries for global usage.

Question 10

Do license keys differ based on language, location or operating system?

Accepted Answer

No, license keys work for BricsCAD in all language versions and for any supported operating system (Windows, macOS or Linux).

Question 11

What do you mean by “perpetual” licenses?

Accepted Answer

A BricsCAD license provides lifetime access to the BricsCAD software without monthly or yearly fees. The product activation key authorizes its owner to use a specific version of BricsCAD for as long as their PC and/or operating system supports it.

Question 12

Can I get a free academic license as a student or a teacher?

Accepted Answer

Students, instructors, and schools can request a one-year BricsCAD Ultimate license(s) for no charge. Students can renew their free licenses for as long as they are enrolled in an accredited academic program. [More info](https://www.bricsys.com/students)

Question 13

Can I return my license after purchase?

Accepted Answer

If you purchased your license through the Bricsys e-store, you may be eligible for a refund within 14 days of the purchase date.
For licenses purchased through an authorized Bricsys Reseller, please contact your reseller directly regarding any refund requests.
Please note that manually activated licenses and Network licenses are non-refundable.
For full details, please refer to our our [Terms of Use](https://www.bricsys.com/terms "Read our Terms of Use").

Question 14

Does a BricsCAD Single License support home use?

Accepted Answer

BricsCAD Single Licenses are intended for use by one user on a single operating system and one computer only.
If you need to run BricsCAD on multiple devices, you have two options: Purchase additional Single Licenses for each machine, or opt for a Network License, which allows multiple users to access BricsCAD across different systems.
Please note that Network licenses require the setup and management of a local License Server, which should be administered by a qualified Network or System Administrator.

Question 15

What’s the difference between buying direct from Bricsys vs buying a license through a reseller?

Accepted Answer

The software is the same. Buying direct gives you online ordering and Bricsys support, while resellers offer local currency sales, invoices, and regional support or training.

Question 16

What license enables me to install versions of BricsCAD on two computers?

Accepted Answer

BricsCAD Single Licenses are intended for use by one user on a single operating system and one computer only.
If you need to run BricsCAD on multiple devices, you have two options: Purchase additional Single Licenses for each machine, or opt for a Network License, which allows multiple users to access BricsCAD across different systems.
Please note that Network Licenses require the setup and management of a local License Server, which should be administered by a qualified Network or System Administrator.

Question 17

Can I try BricsCAD before I buy it?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You can [try BricsCAD for free](https://www.bricsys.com/bricscad-download "Download BricsCAD") for 30-days, no credit card required.

Question 18

Which version of BricsCAD should I choose?

Accepted Answer

There are 5 different BricsCAD versions - [BricsCAD® Lite](https://www.bricsys.com/bricscad/lite "BricsCAD® Lite"), [BricsCAD® Pro](https://www.bricsys.com/bricscad/pro "BricsCAD® Pro"), [BricsCAD® BIM](https://www.bricsys.com/bricscad/bim "BricsCAD® BIM"), [BricsCAD® Mechanical](https://www.bricsys.com/bricscad/mechanical "BricsCAD® Mechanical") and [BricsCAD® Ultimate](https://www.bricsys.com/bricscad/ultimate "BricsCAD® Ultimate"), so there's something for everyone! Find out which BricsCAD is right for you [here](https://www.bricsys.com/bricscad/compare "BricsCAD compare").

Question 19

Do I have to buy BricsCAD after the free trial?

Accepted Answer

No, you're under no obligation when you try BricsCAD with our [30-day free trial](https://www.bricsys.com/bricscad-download), and we don't require you to enter your credit card information to begin the trial.

Question 20

Which version of BricsCAD is included in the trial?

Accepted Answer

The trial version of BricsCAD® is [BricsCAD® Ultimate](https://www.bricsys.com/bricscad/ultimate "BricsCAD® Ultimate"), so you can experience everything BricsCAD has to offer. You can also change to any of the other editions during your trial to test out their individual capabilities, and see what suits your needs best.

Question 21

How often are there release updates for BricsCAD?

Accepted Answer

Maintenance or minor updates are rolled out about once per month, with major releases launched biannually. See all details in the [BricsCAD release notes](https://boa.bricsys.com/common/releasenotes.jsp).

Question 22

What is the optimal installation and configuration for BricsCAD on Linux?

Accepted Answer

Use a modern 64-bit distribution (e.g. Ubuntu, openSUSE) with updated libraries and graphics drivers. Install via the official .deb or .rpm package. For network setups, follow Linux license server instructions. Find more details on the [Help Center](https://help.bricsys.com/document/?id=165079150559 "Setting up a Linux License Server - Help Center").

Question 23

What is the optimal installation and configuration for BricsCAD on Apple?

Accepted Answer

Use macOS 10.15 or later, keep OS and GPU drivers up to date, install on an SSD, and ensure at least 16 GB RAM. See the [BricsCAD system requirements guide](https://help.bricsys.com/document/?id=16528578431608) for details.

Question 24

What is the optimal installation and configuration for on Windows?

Accepted Answer

Use Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit), install on an SSD, keep GPU drivers current, and use 16 GB RAM or more. Close background apps when working with large files. See [Installing BricsCAD](https://help.bricsys.com/document/?id=165079148841) for options.

Question 25

How do I sign up for Bricsys^® Beta Tester Program?

Accepted Answer

Click on “[Join the program](https://www.bricsys.com/beta-tester-program)” and complete the form.

Question 26

How do I know when there is a beta available to test?

Accepted Answer

When you sign up to the Beta Tester Program, you will receive an email detailing how to download the beta version and other instructions on how to test it.

Question 27

Am I allowed to use the BricsCAD^® beta for commercial work?

Accepted Answer

You may not use the beta for commercial work. Sometimes we add experimental functions and features to the beta which may not be included in the final release. This can cause BricsCAD^® to behave in an unexpected way, including crashes. We wouldn’t want you to lose your work.

Question 28

What do I do if I find a bug?

Accepted Answer

You should send a support request, making it clear that you are using the beta version. [Guidelines on how to send a good support request.](/blog/what-to-do-find-an-issue-in-bricscad)

Question 29

I have an idea, suggestion or complaint about the beta, what do I do?

Accepted Answer

You should send a support request, making it clear that you are using the beta version. [Guidelines on how to send a good support request.](/blog/what-to-do-find-an-issue-in-bricscad)

Question 30

What platforms are the betas released on?

Accepted Answer

The betas are released on Windows, Mac and Linux.

Question 31

Can I share my ideas about the beta with other people?

Accepted Answer

The beta contains new features which are not yet public (and may never become public). You are not allowed to share any information about the beta with anyone outside of Bricsys^®, unless they are also participating in the Beta Tester Program.

Question 32

How do I upgrade to a different BricsCAD product level (e.g. from BricsCAD Lite to Pro or Ultimate)?

Accepted Answer

You can upgrade the license level of BricsCAD by purchasing the desired level and then reactivating your License Key via the LICENSEMANAGER command. To explore your upgrading options for existing BricsCAD Licenses visit My Account > [My Licenses](https://boa.bricsys.com/protected/account/licenses)

Question 33

Is BricsCAD compatible with my version of macOS?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BricsCAD for Mac runs on macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or later, and works under Rosetta 2 on Apple silicon.

Question 34

What support options are available for BricsCAD customers?

Accepted Answer

The Help Center offers extensive documentation and tutorials. The Community Forum connects users and BricsCAD staff. Technical Product Support is available during your trial period and to customers with an active Maintenance contract or subscription. To submit a support request, log into your Bricsys Account and go to My Support Requests.

Question 35

Can I renew my BricsCAD Maintenance for multiple years?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can renew your Maintenance contract for one year or three years. Please [contact us](https://www.bricsys.com/contact-sales "Contact Bricsys Sales") or [your local partner](https://www.bricsys.com/find-local-reseller "Find your Bricsys Reseller") directly for pricing and offers.

Question 36

Can I align the expiration date of BricsCAD Maintenance for all my licenses?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when you buy a new license, you can align your new Maintenance contract with an existing one. Please [contact us](https://www.bricsys.com/contact-sales "Contact Bricsys Sales") or [your local partner](https://www.bricsys.com/find-local-reseller "Find your Bricsys Reseller") directly for assistance.

Question 37

What happens if I don't renew my BricsCAD Maintenance plan?

Accepted Answer

Should you choose not to renew, you will miss out on the benefits of Maintenance, including expert support and all major product updates and releases. To get the most out of BricsCAD, you can renew your Maintenance contract in our [e-store](https://www.bricsys.com/store/bricscad "Bricscad store"), via your [Account Manager](https://www.bricsys.com/contact-sales "Contact Bricsys Sales"), or by contacting your [local partner](https://www.bricsys.com/find-local-reseller "Find your Bricsys Reseller").

Question 38

Can I renew my expired BricsCAD Maintenance?

Accepted Answer

No, you cannot renew an expired Maintenance contract. You will have to __upgrade__ to Maintenance instead.

Question 39

Where can I upgrade my existing licenses to include BricsCAD Maintenance?

Accepted Answer

You can easily upgrade your perpetual licenses with Maintenance in our [e-store](https://www.bricsys.com/store/bricscad "Bricscad store"), via your [Account Manager](https://www.bricsys.com/contact-sales "Contact Bricsys Sales"), or by contacting your [local partner](https://www.bricsys.com/find-local-reseller "Find your Bricsys Reseller").

Question 40

Is Maintenance included with BricsCAD’s subscription licensing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, BricsCAD Maintenance is automatically included at no additional cost for customers with a __subscription__ license.

Question 41

Can I get Maintenance on my older version of BricsCAD?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Maintenance is included when you upgrade to the latest version of BricsCAD. Maintenance gives you access to BricsCAD experts to manage your industry-specific questions and [support requests](https://boa.bricsys.com/protected/support/NewSupportRequest.do "Support requests") for the __last four versions of BricsCAD__.

Question 42

How does the cost of BricsCAD Maintenance compare to upgrading each year?

Accepted Answer

Renewing your Maintenance contract is __60% cheaper__ than upgrading to a new major release. Even if you plan to upgrade to the latest version every 3 years, keeping your BricsCAD licenses on Maintenance is still cheaper. Maintenance is the most economical way to stay up to date with BricsCAD's latest innovations and product enhancements.

Question 43

What are the consequences and risks if I don’t renew my Maintenance plan

Accepted Answer

Your BricsCAD license stays valid, but you’ll lose access to updates, new features, and technical support. Over time, this can cause compatibility or performance issues, so renewing BricsCAD Maintenance is strongly recommended.

Question 44

What happens if I don’t renew my Maintenance contract?

Accepted Answer

If for any reason you don’t renew your Maintenance contract at the end of the period, your current BricsCAD version will continue to run for as long as your PC and/or operating system supports it. You will no longer have access to our team of product support experts and you will need to rely on our Bricsys Help Center. If you want to get back on Maintenance or upgrade your licenses to the latest version with Maintenance, just log in to your Bricsys account and check out your upgrade options.

Question 45

What if I have an issue using BricsCAD?

Accepted Answer

If you encounter an issue or need support, you can [contact our support team](https://www.bricsys.com/blog/3-steps-to-get-help-at-bricsys "3 steps to get help at Bricsys - Blog") - whether you're trialling BricsCAD® or are a long-time user, we are here to help!

Question 46

How do I access My Bricsys Account?

Accepted Answer

You can access your account via [this link](https://boa.bricsys.com/protected/account/ "My account") or by clicking the My Account icon in the upper right corner on the Bricsys web site.

The page gives an overview of your:
Personal details
My organization
Licenses and support contracts
Support requests
Invoices and payments
Mail subscriptions

Developers have also access to:
My applications
Press room
Application Support

Question 47

I'm having difficulty logging in. Where do I go for support?

Accepted Answer

Send an email to support@bricsys.com and explain the issue you are experiencing. Find more details on the [Help Center](https://help.bricsys.com/document?id=165245343623 "Customer service - Help Center").

Question 48

Where can I find the BricsCAD product release notes?

Accepted Answer

You can view the release notes for all operating systems and languages at the official Bricsys site - [release notes](https://boa.bricsys.com/common/releasenotes.jsp "Release notes"). Find more details on the [Help Center](https://help.bricsys.com/document/?id=167465324017 "Release notes - Help Center").

Question 49

Where can I find guidance on configuring my mouse, keyboard and shortcut controls in BricsCAD?

Accepted Answer

Learn about our default keyboard shortcuts [here](https://help.bricsys.com/en-us/document/bricscad/getting-started-with-bricscad/exploring-the-interface/keyboard-shortcuts?version=V26&id=165079146093 "Keyboard shortcuts - Help Center"). Check out our guide to customization [here](https://help.bricsys.com/document/?id=165079123737 "Customize dialog box - Help Center"). And find information about mouse and tablet setup [here](https://www.bricsys.com/blog/mouse-double-click-and-tablet-buttons-customizing-bricscad-p12 "Mouse, Double-click & Tablet Buttons - Blog").

Question 50

Can you transition from 2D drafting to 3D BIM modelling in BricsCAD?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Start with your familiar 2D drafting tools and move seamlessly into 3D BIM modeling, all within DWG. Add 3D geometry, then classify and enrich elements to create a complete BIM model.

Question 51

Is BricsCAD BIM compatible with Revit files?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BricsCAD BIM imports Revit® RVT and RFA files. For broader compatibility, you can also use IFC export from Revit. Review imported elements to confirm data accuracy.

Question 52

How does BricsCAD BIM work with IFC files for openBIM workflows?

Accepted Answer

BricsCAD BIM supports IFC2x3 and IFC4 formats for both import and export. This ensures smooth collaboration with other openBIM-compliant tools and helps maintain consistent geometry, classifications, and property data across project teams.

Question 53

Is BricsCAD compatible with DWG files?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BricsCAD uses DWG as its native file format and can open, edit and save DWG files directly. No need to convert. Learn more about this in the [Help Center](https://help.bricsys.com/document/?id=165079145382 "Drawing file format compatibility in BricsCAD").

Question 54

Does BricsCAD support isometric drawing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can generate associative isometric views of 3D models using the VIEWBASE command. Learn more about creating [isometric drawing](https://www.bricsys.com/cad-software/isometric-drawing-engineering) in BricsCAD on our website.

Question 55

Does BricsCAD support open standards for collaboration across different CAD and design software?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BricsCAD BIM supports the IFC standard, including IFC2x3 and IFC4 for import and export.  It also supports the BCF format for linking issues and comments in BIM workflows.

Question 56

What languages are supported in BricsCAD products?

Accepted Answer

BricsCAD is localized into multiple languages. Your existing license keys will work for any of the current localized BricsCAD versions: English (US), Czech, German, Spanish (Spain), French, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Lithuanian, Polish, Portuguese (Brazilian), Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional).

Question 57

Does BricsCAD enable real-time collaboration on design projects?

Accepted Answer

BricsCAD does not support live co-editing of DWG files. Teams collaborate using Xrefs (external references) so multiple users can work on different parts of a project.

Question 58

What is the learning curve for BricsCAD coming from other CAD platforms?

Accepted Answer

BricsCAD is designed to feel familiar to users of other DWG-based CAD software. Most commands, shortcuts, and workflows are similar, allowing for a fast and smooth transition.

Question 59

Does BricsCAD support mechanical engineering design?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BricsCAD Mechanical is explicitly designed for mechanical engineering. It offers 3D modeling, assemblies, sheet metal design, and other mechanical features.

Question 60

Does BricsCAD support sheet metal modelling?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BricsCAD Mechanical includes tools to model sheet metal parts, convert solids to sheet metal, unfold parts and export to CAM.

Question 61

Where can I learn more about moving to BricsCAD?

Accepted Answer

Migrating to BricsCAD® is straightforward! We have plenty of resources and guides to help you make the move as easy as possible. You can find them [here](https://www.bricsys.com/bricscad/migrating-to-bricscad "Migrating to BricsCAD® ").

Question 62

How does BIM collaboration work using BricsCAD compared to alternative CAD software such as Autodesk and Nemetschek Group?

Accepted Answer

BricsCAD BIM is built on openBIM standards and uses DWG for flexible collaboration. It supports IFC data exchange and combines 2D, 3D, and BIM workflows in one environment, allowing you to collaborate with any platform without disrupting your existing processes.

Question 63

What are the best Add-ons to customize and enhance the BricsCAD workflow for my industry and design role?

Accepted Answer

BricsCAD supports LISP, VBA, and .NET extensions, plus third-party add-ons for BIM, Mechanical, and 2D drafting. Browse available tools in the [Application Catalog](https://boa.bricsys.com/applications "Application Catalog").

Question 64

How do I activate Communicator for BricsCAD after installation?

Accepted Answer

Open BricsCAD, go to Help > License Manager, and click "Manage License" next to Communicator for BricsCAD to start your trial or enter a license key.

Frequently asked questions

Trial & licensing