Navisworks Simulate is a project review, 3D coordination, and 4D construction-simulation application for Windows that lets you aggregate multi-format models, review them together, and animate schedules to simulate the construction sequence.
Navisworks Simulate for Windows is Autodesk software that consolidates design and construction models from many different applications into a single coordinated project. It lets teams open and navigate large aggregated scenes, review and mark up the design, and connect that model to a project schedule. Using the TimeLiner tool, model elements are tied to scheduled tasks so the build order plays back as an animated 4D construction simulation. For planners, engineers, and contractors, Navisworks Simulate provides a shared way to visualize sequencing and communicate exactly how a project will be constructed.
- Multi-format model aggregation — Merge CAD and BIM models from many tools into one coordinated project view. 📦
- 3D review and navigation — Walk, orbit, and examine large models, then measure, section, and redline for detailed review. 🔍
- TimeLiner 4D simulation — Link model objects to task dates and play the construction sequence over time. 🕒
- Object animation — Script motion for equipment and elements to demonstrate phasing and site logistics. 🎬
- Viewpoints and markups — Save camera views, selection sets, and comments so the team stays aligned. 🗂️
| Component | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 11 64-bit |
| Processor | A modern multi-core 64-bit processor | A high-frequency multi-core 64-bit processor |
| Memory | 8 GB RAM | 16 GB RAM or more for large aggregated models |
| Storage | Several GB of free disk space | An SSD with ample free space for cached scenes |
- Click the Download button above to get the latest version of Navisworks Simulate.
- Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen setup steps.
- Launch Navisworks Simulate and sign in with your Autodesk account or start your free trial.
- Append your model files so they all load into a single aggregated scene.
- Navigate the combined model using the walk, orbit, and examine modes to review the design.
- Open TimeLiner, build or import a task list, and link model selections to each task.
- Set task dates and simulation settings, then press play to see the build sequence in 4D.
- Save viewpoints and export animations to share your review with the wider team.
Is Navisworks Simulate free? Navisworks Simulate is a paid Autodesk product offered with a free trial so you can evaluate it before subscribing. If you only need to view finished models, Autodesk also provides Navisworks Freedom, a free viewer for NWD and DWF files. Freedom is free but does not include Simulate's simulation, scheduling, and animation tools.
What does Autodesk Navisworks Simulate do? It aggregates multi-format models into one project, lets you review and navigate them in 3D, animates objects, and builds 4D construction simulations with TimeLiner scheduling. In short, it takes separate model files and turns them into a coordinated project you can review and simulate.
What is the difference between Navisworks Simulate vs Manage? Navisworks Simulate and Navisworks Manage share the same review, navigation, animation, and 4D simulation features. Manage adds clash detection and interference management for coordinating disciplines. If your work needs automated clash checking, Manage includes it; if you focus on review and simulation, Simulate covers those tasks.
Which versions of Windows are supported? Navisworks Simulate runs on 64-bit Windows, including current, supported releases such as Windows 10 and Windows 11.
For help with Navisworks Simulate, open the built-in Help or Support section inside the app, where you'll find documentation, troubleshooting tips, and contact options. You can also consult the official Navisworks Simulate website for the latest guides, tutorials, and support resources.
This project is licensed under the MIT License — you are free to use, copy, modify, and distribute it. The full MIT License text is provided in the LICENSE file included with the project.