CUI File Extension
Autodesk Custom Workspace Format
- File Type cui
- Developer Autodesk
- Popularity
- Application AutoCAD
- Category Settings Files
What is a CUI file?
Files with the CUI extension are specifically tied to Autodesk Custom Workspace Format, a Settings Files type, and there are 1190 files in this category.
The Autodesk Custom Workspace Format (CUI) was developed by Autodesk, which created file format and 45 programs to work with them.
CUI file support extends to various operating systems, including Windows and Mac OS. To open a CUI file, you can choose from 2 programs such as AutoCAD and Autodesk 3ds Max.
How to open a CUI file?
If you cannot open a CUI file, it is most often due to missing software. Select a program from the list according to your operating system. Then go to the official website of the program developer, download it, and install it on your device.
Thanks to their popularity, AutoCAD and Autodesk 3ds Max are often the go-to programs for managing CUI files. If you need the newest version of AutoCAD, just access the Autodesk website. From there you can download the installer compatible with all systems.
Once AutoCAD is installed, the OS should configure it as the default tool for opening CUI files.
Make AutoCAD the default CUI viewer
Change the default app to open files on Mac
- Right click or use Control + Left Click on the desired CUI file to access a dropdown menu of actions;
- Choose "Open in Application" and click "Other";
- Towards the bottom of the window, find the "Enable" menu, which is already set to the default option, "Recommended Programs";
- In this menu, select "All Programs" and search for AutoCAD. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default option.
Change a default app in Windows
- Start by right-clicking on your CUI file, then select the "Open with" option and choose "Choose another app" from the menu that appears;
- Inside the popup window, scroll through the list of applications and specifically choose AutoCAD as the application to associate with your CUI file;
- Check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK".
Finding answers to CUI file problems
If CUI files are giving you trouble, small modifications to your software can help. Check out the troubleshooting tips below to fix these issues.
What can lead to sudden AutoCAD crashes?
Insufficient updates for Autodesk products can cause AutoCAD to crash. Be sure to regularly install the latest software updates.
A computer restart is often the key to solving numerous common problems. That’s why, it is recommended to restart the computer before making any changes to the software settings.
What is the recommended approach to repair a damaged CUI file?
Use a recovery program to open the damaged CUI file, and in the menu, click "Repair" to start the repair operation. Wait for the recovery process to finish as it will automatically restore the damaged settings files.
What are the ways to check if my CUI file is damaged?
Characteristics of corrupted CUI settings files can include:
- The file encounters problems during the opening process or shows error indications;
- Editing the archive in AutoCAD is hampered by poor overall performance;
- The file causes AutoCAD or other software to hang or crash during various operations;
- An unexplained increase in the size of the CUI file;
- Actions performed on the file result in the appearance of error notifications;
How to edit a CUI file?
To modify CUI files, you need to install special software that makes it possible to open and edit settings files. Online CUI editors are more restricted compared to software designed for Autodesk Custom Workspace Format.
Best CUI editors 2026
According to these factors, we have compiled a list of available CUI editors.
| CUI Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autodesk 3ds Max | Autodesk | Windows | 4.5 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
| AutoCAD | Autodesk | Windows, Mac OS | 4.4 out of 5 (37 reviews) |