Where should I save the project file?

To ensure that all data is always saved automatically, it is important that MAXQDA is not opened from an external drive or a cloud-synchronized folder, but always from the local drive.

Why keep my project on the local drive? MAXQDA writes to the project file constantly while you work. Opening a .mx24 project from a network drive, USB stick or cloud‑synchronized folder (e.g., OneDrive or iCloud) can interrupt that connection and corrupt the database. Always open and edit your project from a local folder, then copy it to the cloud or external storage only after you close MAXQDA.

Recommended locations on Mac: Avoid the iCloud‑synchronized “Documents” and “Desktop” folders. Create a dedicated folder in your home directory (e.g., /Users/yourname/MAXQDA_Projects) or rename your project folder to MAXQDA.nosync to prevent iCloud synchronization. If a folder appears under the iCloud section in Finder, it’s being synced.

Recommended locations on Windows: OneDrive often syncs “Documents” and “Desktop.” Save projects in a local folder such as C:\MAXQDA_Projects or under C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Roaming\MAXQDA24, and exclude that folder from OneDrive syncing. If “OneDrive” appears in the path shown in File Explorer, the folder is synchronized.

How do I back up my project? MAXQDA can automatically save backup copies (file extension .mx24.bac) at regular intervals. Adjust the interval and location in the settings. Automatic backups are helpful, but you should also manually back up your project—use Save Project As to copy the file (and any bundled external data) to an external drive or cloud storage. 

Only open projects after copying them back to a local, non‑synchronized folder.

Following these simple rules will help protect your work from accidental loss while still allowing you to use cloud services for backup and collaboration.

How can I be sure that I will not lose my work?