Once loaded, use the interface to:
For a truly online experience, convert your ETABS model into a lightweight 3D format:
This method produces an interactive 3D model you can share with a simple link—perfect for presentations or client approvals.
CSI has been slow to release a browser-based version of ETABS due to the computational intensity of finite element analysis (FEA). However, competitors like SkyCiv and RISA-3D now offer online structural analysis directly in a browser.
Will CSI release a web-based ETABS? Likely, yes—in the form of ETABS Web Viewer first, followed by a simplified analysis module. Until then, the combination of CSI Viewer (mobile) + IFC exports (browser) + Cloud Desktop (full access) covers 99% of use cases.
When you upload an ETABS file to a third-party website, you are uploading the complete building genome—every beam size, every load combination, and every design decision.
Using CSI Cloud Viewer:
Using a random "Free EDB Viewer" from a .ru or .cn domain:
Verdict: Only use official CSI tools or convert the file locally (to IFC) before uploading to a neutral platform like Autodesk Viewer.
Use WinRAR or 7-Zip to zip the EDB file. Cloud uploads are slow; shave off 50% of the size by compressing it.
| Need | Recommended Solution | Online? | |------|----------------------|---------| | View geometry & results | CSI Viewer + Remote Desktop | Indirectly yes | | Share model with non-ETABS users | Export to IFC → Autodesk Viewer | Yes | | Present 3D structure on a website | Convert to GLTF → Sketchfab | Yes | | Edit or re-analyze | No solution (must use local ETABS) | No |