Where Does Quicken Store Data Files?
Normally when we install our software, we're in such a hurry to use the software that we barely notice the set up procedure. When installing software, most programs have a default folder to which they will put all that particular software's important files. They usually ask you, the user, if this is where you want to put the files that concern their particular program. This is true with Quicken as well.
Other People Are Reading
-
Initial Quicken Installation
-
During the initial installation process Quicken asks where you would like to place the Quicken program files and gives you the default "Program Files/Quicken." At this point you could change the place where the program files are kept. It's usually better to use the default that Quicken offers.
Considerations
-
Where Quicken places the data files is different from where they place the Quicken program files, which does lead to some confusion locating the Quicken data files. When opening Quicken for the first time, Quicken tells you where it will be putting the data file, as well as what the default name will be. It also asks if you want to call it something different and place it another location. If you do not call it something different or give it a specific location, then Quicken uses the default name "QDATA" and places the data file in your "Quicken Folder" that's located in the "Documents" folder (in Vista) or "My Documents" (in Windows XP).
-
Changing Name or Location of Data File
-
You may choose to change what your data file is called as you set up your Quicken software, or you may choose to do this later. Just because the data file is placed in the Documents/Quicken folder to begin with doesn't mean it has to stay there. You can change the title and location, but when reopening Quicken you must point it to that new location when prompted, or go to "File," "Open" and browse until you find your data file.
Expert Insight
-
At some point in your use of Quicken, you may wish to create a new file and give it a distinctive name. As sometimes is the case, you may want several different files in Quicken for different reasons. For example, use "SMITH HOUSE" if you're using Quicken for personal household finances, or if you're using the Quicken Home & Business version, you may want to use the name of your business "SMITH CONSULTING." Remember that you may want to give your Quicken data file a distinctive name so that it's easily found in a search. Data files in Quicken end with the file extension .QDF, and this is another way to search for your Quicken data files.
Potential
-
Quicken helps to keep your financial records in one place and organized. But knowing where your data file is located helps so that you can access your financial records quickly and efficiently.
-
