What Is NETLOAD in AutoCAD?
NETLOAD is the AutoCAD command that loads a managed .NET assembly (a .dll built against AcDbMgd/AcMgd) into the running AutoCAD process. It reflects over the assembly and registers any class marked with [CommandMethod] as a new typeable command. NETLOAD only loads for the current session — to load on every startup, use an AutoCAD bundle or a registry auto-load entry.
Steps
Identify when NETLOAD applies
Use NETLOAD only for managed .NET assemblies (C# or VB.NET DLLs that reference AcDbMgd/AcMgd). For LISP files use APPLOAD; for ObjectARX modules use ARX.
Run the command
Type NETLOAD at the AutoCAD command line and press Enter. Pick the .dll. AutoCAD silently loads it and registers commands — there's no confirmation popup on success, only failure dialogs.
Verify it loaded
Type APPLOAD → Loaded Applications. Your DLL should be in the list. Or just type one of the plugin's command names.
Understand what NETLOAD does NOT do
NETLOAD does not: validate plugin signatures, scan for malware, prevent loading dependencies that might conflict with already-loaded assemblies, or unload anything (you can't NETUNLOAD).
Frequently asked questions
How is NETLOAD different from APPLOAD?
APPLOAD is the GUI that can load any supported plugin type (.lsp, .fas, .vlx, .arx, .dll). NETLOAD is the command-line shortcut specifically for .NET (.dll). Under the hood, APPLOAD calls NETLOAD when you pick a .dll.
How is NETLOAD different from AUTOLOAD?
NETLOAD is a one-shot manual load for this session. Auto-load (via bundle or registry) is the mechanism that calls NETLOAD on your DLL automatically every time AutoCAD starts.
Can I unload a NETLOADed assembly?
No. The .NET hosting model in AutoCAD does not support assembly unload. You have to close AutoCAD and reopen without auto-loading the DLL.
Does NETLOAD work in AutoCAD LT?
No. AutoCAD LT does not host .NET.
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Related terms
The AutoCAD command that loads a managed .NET plugin DLL into the running session.
A managed assembly (C#/VB.NET DLL) that uses Autodesk's .NET API to add commands and behaviour to AutoCAD or Civil 3D.
The .NET attribute you place on a method to expose it as a typeable AutoCAD command after NETLOAD.
Two related AutoCAD mechanisms for loading plugins on demand: the (autoload) LISP function and the auto-load registry/bundle keys used for .NET DLLs.
The AutoCAD command that opens a dialog for loading .lsp, .fas, .vlx, .arx, or .dll files into the current session.