AutoCAD fails to download and install - instead you are directed to the Microsoft Store

Issue:  

When you need to download AutoCAD or other products from the Autodesk products page, the download completes and nothing happens, without an apparent reason.

You are instead directed to download a similar product from the Microsoft App Store, such as "AutoCAD - DWG Viewer & Editor" instead of the AutoCAD that you need, for example.

Causes:

Windows 10 or Windows 11 is in 'S Mode' (Secure Mode) that attempts to protect you from downloading any apps except those from the Microsoft App Store.

 Solution:

To turn S-Mode off, go to the Microsoft App Store and click the banner that shows 'Switch out of S Mode', like this:

Note: You may need to open the Microsoft Store App:

For more details about switching out of S Mode for both Windows 10 and Windows 11, see Microsoft's article here.

Once S Mode is off, then you can download and install AutoCAD or other Autodesk products normally. 

About the Author

Sr. Technical Support Specialist, Manufacturing<br><br>Bob Felton has been supporting Autodesk products for over 25 years including core AutoCAD, P&ID, Plant 3D, AutoCAD for Mac, AutoCAD Mechanical, and Vault. His background is in graphics with an Applied Sciences degree and ten years manufacturing experience drafting, as well as technical illustration, image editing, and even patent drafting.

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