Protecting AutoCAD Files ?

[JohnLega]

We would like to send out DWG files to people oversees for them to be able to take dimensions form the drawings, print out the drawings, etc. BUT we do not want them to be able to edit the files. In other words, we don't want anyone to change the drawing in any way for their purposes. I know you cannot edit DWF files but there are ways to convert a DWF to DWG so that may not work. Is there a utility that will alow someone to open a DWG but not edit it? Can I password protect the file internally (inside the DWG)?

Thanks so much,

John Lega

 

[saraycad]

What do you (and others) think about converting dwg to pdf files? Is that secure enough?

Regards!

 

[JohnLega]

Sara,

Thanks for your reply. I have always used PDF which works nicely but they need the ability to take measurements from the drawngs (distances and square footages).

Thanks for your reply.

Regards,

John Lega

 

[smcadman]

Cadlock is the only product that I have heard of that anybody has successfully been able to protect there drawing files with.

http://www.cadlock.com/

Hope this helps.

Paulo