Where ATLAS.ti stores your project data

Key takeaways

  • ATLAS.ti Windows and Mac store project data in an internal repository called the ATLAS.ti library.
  • When you import a document, ATLAS.ti creates a copy and works only with that copy.
  • The ATLAS.ti library is a protected system folder and should not be accessed or modified manually.
  • ATLAS.ti Web projects are stored securely on ATLAS.ti servers and linked to your account.
  • We strongly recommend keeping regular project backups, especially if the library location has been changed.

Who this article is for

This article is for ATLAS.ti Windows, Mac, and Web users who want to understand where their projects and documents are stored.

How ATLAS.ti stores your files

When you import a document into ATLAS.ti Desktop, the software creates a copy of that file and stores it in the ATLAS.ti library. Your original document remains untouched and ATLAS.ti never edits or modifies it.

The library is not the same as a project. It is the central storage location that contains all of your ATLAS.ti projects and the files associated with them.

Because ATLAS.ti relies on the integrity of these stored files, the library is considered a system folder and is not intended for direct user access.

Where is the ATLAS.ti library located?

ATLAS.ti Windows

By default, the library is stored in the hidden AppData folder within your Windows user profile:

C:\Users\[Username]\AppData\Roaming\Scientific Software\ATLAS.ti   

For example:

C:\Users\Mary\AppData\Roaming\Scientific Software\ATLAS.ti   

You can quickly access the AppData folder by typing %appdata%    into the Windows search box or File Explorer address bar.

ATLAS.ti Mac

By default, the library is stored in:

~/Library/Application Support/ATLAS.ti   

The macOS Library folder is hidden by default because it contains application data and system files.

Can I change the library location?

Yes, but we recommend doing so only if absolutely necessary, for example if your primary drive is running out of storage space.

Changing the library location can make troubleshooting and data recovery more difficult. If the library is moved incorrectly, ATLAS.ti Support may not be able to recover your projects.

Windows

From the project selection screen:

  1. Click Options
  2. Select Application Preferences
  3. Open ATLAS.ti Library Location
  4. Click Switch Library

Mac

From the menu bar:

  1. Click ATLAS.ti
  2. Select Switch Library

Where are ATLAS.ti Web projects stored?

ATLAS.ti Web projects are stored on ATLAS.ti servers and linked to your ATLAS.ti account.

You can access your projects at: https://web.atlasti.com/projects

ATLAS.ti Web projects are not tied to a specific license or computer. This allows you to access your work from different devices by signing into your account.

Working across devices

Beginning with ATLAS.ti version 23, Desktop users can upload projects to the ATLAS.ti Project Cloud. This allows you to work on projects across multiple devices and collaborate with other project members without manually moving project files.

Common issues

  • I cannot find my project files
    • This is often because users are looking for the original documents instead of the copies stored in the ATLAS.ti library.
  • I moved the library and now projects are missing
    • ATLAS.ti may no longer be pointing to the correct library location. Verify the configured library path in the application settings.
  • Can I edit files directly inside the library?
    • No. Files inside the library should not be modified manually. Doing so can damage projects or cause data inconsistencies.

When to contact support

Contact support if:

  • projects disappear after changing the library location
  • ATLAS.ti cannot find your library
  • you are unsure where your data is stored
  • a managed or network-based library is causing access issues
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