Over the years, InfraWorks has seen a number of name changes, feature updates, additions, and modifications. And, unlike other Autodesk applications, the software is not on an annual rollout, meaning new features and functions are released throughout the year via periodic product updates.
Before I really get into it, though, here is some background information:
- InfraWorks 360 IS NOT a serial number based application.
- InfraWorks 360 IS a product entitlement assigned to an individual user's Autodesk account by the contract holder or software coordinator.
- InfraWorks 360 can be installed on any 64-bit Windows 7, 8, 8.1, or 10 OS system without a serial number.
- A user's Autodesk Login activates the features and functions when the program is launched.
- Version updates are released periodically throughout the year, unlike the annual releases of other Autodesk products. The current version at the time of this post is 2017.3.
- User accounts and entitlements may not be shared per the license agreement.
Option 1 - InfraWorks 360 LT
Previously, the "LT" version of InfraWorks 360 was included as part of the now-retired Design Suites, and it has limited or “light” functionality compared to the full version of InfraWorks 360.
It should be noted that the LT version is no longer available for purchase, but can be accessed by customers who have an existing and active maintenance subscription for Autodesk® Infrastructure Design Suite Ultimate edition, Autodesk® Infrastructure Design Suite Premium edition, or Autodesk® Building Design Suite Ultimate editions.
This means if you are an existing customer with an active subscription for one of the older suites, you are entitled to InfraWorks 360 LT. If you are a current subscriber of the new AEC Collection, you have access to the full version of InfraWorks 360.
Option 2 - InfraWorks 360
This is currently available as an individual product subscription or as part of the AEC Industry Collection from Autodesk, and it includes access to all features and functions of the product.
As of the 2016 release of InfraWorks 360, the once “a la cart” Road, Bridge, and Drainage design modules are now included as part of InfraWorks 360, at no extra cost. Learn more about this change.
Here's a handy PDF, Autodesk InfraWorks 360 vs.Autodesk InfraWorks 360 LT Comparison Matrix, highlighting the differences between InfraWorks 360 LT and InfraWorks 360.
To find out what version of Infraworks 360 you’re currently running, launch the program and open one of your models. Click on Settings and Utilities, then Application Options to access the About dialog. The version you have is listed on the upper left corner of the About information. If you are on subscription, you can download and install the latest version of Infraworks 360 through the Autodesk Desktop App. Please note, Infraworks 360 models are version specific, so updating to the latest version will also prompt you to upgrade any existing models the next time they are opened.
There it is, now you've got a breakdown of the two remaining “flavors” of InfraWorks 360 and how (or why) you have access to a particular version.
If you have LT and want more information on purchasing a full version of InfraWorks 360, please contact sales@ideateinc.com.
Thank you for reading. For more information on the software solutions, training, and consulting Ideate provides, visit our website at www.ideateinc.com.
ENI Manager & Senior Application Specialist
Matt is an ENI Manager and Senior Application Specialist in Ideate, Inc.’s Seattle office. He has a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and is a licensed Civil Engineer. Prior to joining Ideate, Matt worked as a civil engineer, using Civil 3D on a variety of projects including site development, roadway improvements and infrastructure design. With over 10 years of experience in the civil engineering industry, Matt now provides training, consulting, technical support, and implementation strategies for organizations transitioning to Civil 3D. Matt is an Autodesk Certified Instructor (ACI), as well as an Autodesk Certified BIM Specialist: Roads and Highway Solutions. Additionally, Matt is and Autodesk Certified Professional for AutoCAD, and AutoCAD Civil 3D. He can be found on twitter as @MattM_PE
