Rename or delete the Adobe Illustrator Prefs file.
Last updated on
Sep 11, 2025
Learn how to restore Adobe Illustrator preferences using manual methods, keyboard shortcuts, or the Preferences dialog box.
Restore preferences manually
Relaunch Illustrator. A new preferences file is automatically created.
Replace the current Adobe Illustrator [Version] Settings folder with your backup copy to restore your app settings.
In Windows, the AppData folder is hidden by default. To view it, go to Control Panel > Appearance and Personalization > File Explorer Options > View, and then select the Show hidden files, folders, or drives option. If you still can’t find the preferences file, use your system’s search to look for AIPrefs (Windows) or Adobe Illustrator Prefs (macOS).
Restore preferences using keyboard shortcuts
Quit Illustrator if it’s open.
Press the following keys as you launch Illustrator:
- macOS: Option + Command + Shift
- Windows: Alt + Ctrl + Shift
New preferences files are created automatically the next time you start Illustrator.
Replace the current Adobe Illustrator [Version] Settings folder with your backup copy to restore your app settings.
Restore preferences using the Preferences dialog
Open Illustrator.
From the Illustrator main menu, select:
- macOS: Illustrator > Preferences > [preference category]
- Windows: Edit > Preferences > [preference category]
You can also select the Preferences option in the Control panel.
Select Reset Preferences > OK.
Select Restart Now in the dialog box that asks Restart Illustrator now to reset the preferences. Click ‘Cancel’ to continue without resetting the preferences.
Relaunch the Illustrator app. New preferences files will be created in their original location.
Create designs with Illustrator online (beta)
Create graphics that match your style right in your browser.
