How to Configure AutoCAD Support File Search Paths
To configure the AutoCAD support path, type OPTIONS, go to the Files tab, expand 'Support File Search Path', click Add, and browse to the folder you want AutoCAD to scan. AutoCAD checks paths in order — drag yours to the top with 'Move Up' if you need it to win over Autodesk's defaults.
Steps
Open Options
Type OPTIONS at the command line.
Expand Support File Search Path
Files tab → expand 'Support File Search Path' (it's the first entry). You see the ordered list of folders AutoCAD scans.
Add your folder
Click Add → Browse → pick your folder → OK. Repeat for each folder you want on the path.
Order matters
Use Move Up / Move Down to set precedence. The first folder containing the file wins. Put your team's standards folder above the user-specific roaming folder so shared overrides take effect.
Don't remove Autodesk defaults
Never delete the Autodesk-installed entries — they're how AutoCAD finds its own LISP, fonts, and templates. Only add to the list.
Frequently asked questions
AutoCAD loads the wrong version of a file.
Higher-precedence folders win. Move your folder up in the list, or remove the lower-precedence copy of the file.
Should I add network folders?
Yes for team standards. Use UNC (\\server\share\…) not mapped drives. Network folders slow down AutoCAD startup slightly because each path adds a directory enumeration.
Where is the search path stored?
In the AutoCAD profile under HKCU\Software\Autodesk\AutoCAD\<ver>\<lang>\Profiles\<profile>\General. Export the profile via OPTIONS → Profiles → Export to deploy to other PCs.
Related guides
Three reliable ways to load .lsp, .fas, and .vlx files into AutoCAD, plus how to add them to the Startup Suite so you never reload again.
Four ways to make a LISP routine load automatically — Startup Suite, ACAD.lsp, acaddoc.lsp, and Trusted Locations — and which to pick.