Joseph Gan's Blog

Autocad 2017 French Language Pack Hot!

How to Download and Install the AutoCAD 2017 French Language Pack

Are you looking to switch your AutoCAD 2017 interface to French? Whether you are a native French speaker, working on an international project, or simply trying to align your software environment with your team, installing a language pack is the solution.

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about the AutoCAD 2017 French Language Pack, including where to find it, how to install it, and how to switch between languages seamlessly. autocad 2017 french language pack

Autocad 2017 French Language Pack — Overview and practical guidance

System Requirements and Compatibility

Before downloading the AutoCAD 2017 French Language Pack, verify your system: How to Download and Install the AutoCAD 2017

  • Base Software: You must have a valid, installed copy of AutoCAD 2017 (English, German, or other base language is fine—the pack overlays the UI).
  • Operating System: Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1, or Windows 10 (64-bit only; no 32-bit version exists for 2017).
  • Disk Space: Approximately 1.5 GB free for the language pack files.
  • User Permissions: Administrator rights are required for installation.
  • License Type: Works with standalone, network, and educational licenses.

Crucial Caveat: The language pack is not a full standalone installer. You cannot install the French language pack on a computer without an existing AutoCAD 2017 installation. Base Software: You must have a valid, installed

A. Command Line & Aliases (Critical for Productivity)

  • English Command: LINE → French: LIGNE (Alias: L)
  • English Command: MATCHPROP → French: CORRESPROP
  • English Command: OSNAP → French: REFS (Référence aux objets)
  • Alias File: The acad.pgp is replaced with a French version (french.pgp), where common French shorthand (e.g., CERCLE for CIRCLE) takes precedence.

Distribution Channels

  • Autodesk Account Portal (under “Language Packs”).
  • Autodesk Desktop App.
  • Volume License installation via SCCM using command-line switches: Setup.exe /qb /I /Language fr-FR.

Step 3: Switching the Language

This is the step most users miss! Installing the pack doesn't automatically switch the language. You have to tell AutoCAD to use it.

  1. Close AutoCAD if it is currently open.
  2. Go to your Windows Start Menu.
  3. Locate the Autodesk folder.
  4. You should now see a new shortcut labeled "AutoCAD 2017 - French".
  5. Click this shortcut to launch the program in French.

Alternative Method: If you prefer to switch the language within the same shortcut:

  1. Open AutoCAD 2017.
  2. Type OPTIONS in the command line and press Enter.
  3. Go to the General tab.
  4. Look for the Language drop-down menu.
  5. Select French and restart the application.

5. Verify the Installation

Launch AutoCAD 2017 - French and check:

  • Menu bar, ribbon, tooltips → French
  • Command line: try LIGNE (should work like LINE)
  • Type (getvar "LOCALE") → returns "FRA"