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jdrichardson
April 19, 2025
Question

File descriptions; Trying to clean up files

  • April 19, 2025
  • 2 replies
  • 0 views

I have over the years accumulated several files within a QB account file. I would like to clean this quagmire out and get to just what is needed. One, how can this be done easily? But then I don't know what all the files are and if they have any significance to the account. All I need to do now because of a little OCD cleanup is damage a file/account information. 

I have attached an image of some files I see. I understand that the .qbw are the file itself. But HomeOffice; Tablet; ND; DSN; TLG? 

 

Thanks for the assistance and any other bits of information to keep my files clean, accurate and up to date. 

2 replies

K
KayePe
April 19, 2025

Like you, I also want to keep my company file clean and retain relevant files, Richard. Let me guide you through understanding the different file types and extensions used by QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT).


Yes, you're correct. The .qbw extension houses your company file and account information. The .nd extension aids QuickBooks in managing user access settings, while the .tlg extension tracks changes to your company file since the last backup. Please note that these are the primary file types used by QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT).


If you want to clean and remove the other files, backing up your company file first is recommended. After that, you can use the Condense Data utility.


Here's how:
 

  1. Choose File, then Utilities, then Condense Data.
  2. Tick Remove the transactions you select from your company file and select Next.
  3. Select the transactions, summarization, and inventory condensing method and tap Next after each selection.
  4. Choose recommended transactions and List entries you’d like to remove, then pick Next.
  5. Select Begin Condense, wait for the process to complete, and hit Close.

 

 

To maintain the integrity and accuracy of your files, you can also export files from QBDT and import files from external sources into QBDT. This practice helps keep your data up-to-date and organized.


Your QuickBooks Community team is always ready to support your goals. Comment below for prompt assistance with cleaning your files, and I'll be here to help.

C
Chrea
April 19, 2025

@jdrichardson 

Open all three QBW files and compare them. You may consider deleting 2 of them to avoid duplication.

 

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