# How to Download and Install AutoCAD 2021 for Free (and Why You Should Avoid Cracks)
AutoCAD 2021 is the latest version of the popular computer-aided design (CAD) software that allows you to create 2D and 3D drawings and models. AutoCAD 2021 has many new features and enhancements, such as:
- **Drawing History**: You can view and compare previous versions of your drawings and see the changes over time.
- **Xref Compare**: You can compare two versions of an external reference (Xref) file and see the differences in your current drawing.
- **Blocks Palette**: You can access and insert blocks more easily from a visual gallery.
- **Quick Measure**: You can display all nearby measurements by hovering your mouse over objects.
- **Cloud Storage Access**: You can access any DWG file in Autodesk's cloud storage with AutoCAD web and mobile apps.
If you want to use AutoCAD 2021 for your personal or professional projects, you may be wondering how to download and install it for free. However, you should also be aware of the risks and drawbacks of using cracked versions of the software. In this article, we will show you how to download and install AutoCAD 2021 legally and safely, and why you should avoid cracks.
## How to Download and Install AutoCAD 2021 for Free
The official way to download and install AutoCAD 2021 for free is to use the trial version or the educational version. The trial version allows you to use the full features of AutoCAD 2021 for 30 days without any cost or obligation. The educational version allows you to use the full features of AutoCAD 2021 for three years if you are a student or an educator at a qualified educational institution.
To download and install AutoCAD 2021 for free, follow these steps:
- Go to the official website of Autodesk: https://www.autodesk.com/
- Click on the Products menu and select AutoCAD.
- Click on the Free Trial button or the Free Software for Students and Educators button, depending on your eligibility.
- Sign in with your Autodesk account or create one if you don't have one.
- Choose your operating system (Windows or Mac) and your language.
- Click on the Download Now button and follow the instructions to download the installer file.
- Run the installer file and follow the instructions to install AutoCAD 2021 on your computer.
- Activate your trial or educational license by signing in with your Autodesk account when prompted.
You can now use AutoCAD 2021 for free for 30 days or three years, depending on your license type. You can also access your files online or on mobile devices with AutoCAD web and mobile apps.
## Why You Should Avoid Cracks
A crack is a modified version of a software that bypasses its security or licensing mechanisms. Some websites may offer you cracks for AutoCAD 2021 that claim to give you unlimited access to the software without paying anything. However, using cracks is illegal, unethical, risky, and unreliable. Here are some reasons why you should avoid cracks:
- **Legal Issues**: Using cracks violates the intellectual property rights of Autodesk, the developer of AutoCAD. You may face legal consequences if you are caught using pirated software.
- **Security Risks**: Downloading cracks may expose your computer to viruses, malware, spyware, ransomware, or other harmful programs that can damage your system or steal your personal information. You may also lose your data or compromise your privacy if you use cracks.
- **Quality Issues**: Using cracks may result in poor performance or functionality of AutoCAD. You may encounter errors, bugs, glitches, crashes, or compatibility issues that can affect your drawing quality or productivity. You may also miss out on updates, support, or new features from Autodesk if you use cracks.
Therefore, we recommend you to use the official trial or educational version of AutoCAD 2021 instead of cracks. This way, you can enjoy the full features and benefits of AutoCAD 2021 legally and safely.
## Conclusion
AutoCAD 2021 is a powerful CAD software that can help you create amazing drawings and models. If you want to use it for free, you can download and install the trial or educational version from Autodesk's website. However, you should avoid using cracks that may cause legal, security, or quality problems. We hope this article has helped you learn how to download and install AutoCAD 2021 for free (and why you should avoid cracks 06063cd7f5