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radiohunter
Level 1

Backup File Structure

In my backup folder I have all the QBB files, but also have MANY QBW files. Am I correct in thinking the QBW are working files and the QBB are the Backup files? With the QBW files I also have DSN, ND and LGB files which have the same date as the QBB File. Do I  really need any of those files as long as I have the QBB File? 

If I do need to save those should I put them in folders based on Date? My guess is I no longer need those and saving ONLY the QBB files is the way to go? 

Any help appreciated. Oh BTW I am running Quickbooks 2024. Thanks 

Solved
Best answer December 01, 2024

Best Answers
Chrea
Level 6

Backup File Structure

@radiohunter 

You only need 1 QBW file and you can have more than 1 QBB file. You are correct that w = working and b = backup.

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4 Comments 4
Jeff_S
QuickBooks Team

Backup File Structure

Yes, you are correct! Radiohunter. QBW files are the working files you use regularly in QuickBooks, while QBB files are your backup copies, which are crucial for data recovery and generally the most important to keep.

 

Also, having the additional files (DSN, ND, LGB) can be beneficial for maintaining a smooth operation without any interruptions when you restore the backup. However, they are optional if you only want to preserve your company's essential data.

 

Refer to this article if you ever run into problems with your data in QuickBooks Desktop: Back up your QuickBooks Desktop company file.

 

In case your data is damaged, deleted, or lost, but already have backup data stored, check out this article for a detailed steps on restoring company file: Restore a backup of your company file.

 

If you have any more questions regarding backing up and restoring data in QBDT, Leave a comment below. Have a great time managing your QuickBooks data, and best of luck with QuickBooks 2024!

Chrea
Level 6

Backup File Structure

@radiohunter 

You only need 1 QBW file and you can have more than 1 QBB file. You are correct that w = working and b = backup.

radiohunter
Level 1

Backup File Structure

Thank you for the support. I now have a better understanding of the file types. One last question though. 

The QBW file along with the ND, LGB, and DSN files would reside on the C: drive in the Quickbooks folder while the QBW file obviously would either reside on a external USB Backup drive or a Offline site such as Onedrive. I assume the ND, LGB and DSN files along with others get written over as time goes on and there is no need to really back up any of those?  

GenmarieM
QuickBooks Team

Backup File Structure

Thanks for getting back here in the Community, radiohunter.  Let me provide you with more information about other file types in QuickBooks.

 

Yes, you're right. QuickBooks Working (QBW) files are critical components of the QuickBooks accounting software, typically stored on the C drive for optimal system performance and accessibility. These files serve as the primary repository for financial data, containing comprehensive records of transactions, accounts, and business financial information. To ensure seamless software information, it is essential to store this file in a place that is easily accessible by the software.

 

Additionally, it is also recommended to back up the QBW file along with ND, LGB, and DSN files. Regular backups serve multiple crucial functions, including protecting against potential data loss, preserving transaction histories, and providing a reliable restoration point in case of system failures or accidental data corruption. By consistently creating and storing backup files, businesses can safeguard their financial records and maintain uninterrupted access to critical accounting information.

 

You can also refer to this article for other QuickBooks file types and extensions and their uses: File types and extensions used by QuickBooks Desktop.

 

For future reference, these links outline the complete steps to resolve any of the following issues.

 

 

Let us know if you have other questions about QuickBooks file types in QuickBooks Desktop. We're here to help you in any way we can.

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