Trusted Locations

Short answer

AutoCAD's allow-list of folders that can load executable code (LISP, .NET, ARX) without a security warning.

Trusted Locations (SECURELOAD/TRUSTEDPATHS) is AutoCAD's security model for executable files. When SECURELOAD is on (the default since 2014), AutoCAD refuses to load LISP, .NET, or ARX files from any folder not in the TRUSTEDPATHS list. Adding your install folder to Trusted Locations is a required step for any commercial plugin — most installers do it for you.

Related guides

How to Load a LISP Routine in AutoCAD

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.

How to NETLOAD a .NET Plugin in AutoCAD

Load a C# / VB.NET plugin DLL into AutoCAD with NETLOAD, troubleshoot common load errors, and set up auto-load so you don't NETLOAD every session.

Related terms

Support File Search Path

The ordered list of folders AutoCAD scans to find LISP, font, menu, and template files.

NETLOAD

The AutoCAD command that loads a managed .NET plugin DLL into the running session.