Question

Removing old data files that aren't needed

Forum|Forum|1 year ago
September 6, 2024
2 replies
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I am now on QB Desktop ProPlus 2024 and we started with QuickBooks in 2008. I have over 30 company files that I use, with all of that data since 2008.

The latest date modified is from 2011. The extensions include: ndFile, QBP File, LGB File, tlgFile, ADR File, Data Source Name, SDS File and Text Documents. The File Folders include: Restored, SearchIndex, QBBackupTemp, with multiple copies of the Extensions and File Folders.

How do I know what I can safely get rid of?

QuickBooks Desktop

D

Deity Alpha

Can you open your latest data (2011) on QB Desktop 2024 without any issue?

C

CarlSJ

I can help you remove unnecessary old data files from your QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) 2024, @Stad1um-22-71.

You can safely remove the old data file types and extensions you mentioned. However, ensure that you're not including the .qbw extension, as this file contains your company file and account info, which is crucial when making changes in this file type.

To find more information about the different file types and data in QBDT, here's an article for reference: File types and extensions used by QBDT.

Meanwhile, if you want to delete old transactions from the file, we offer an option to do so.

To begin with, let's move the old files to another folder on your computer before removing unneeded data. Then, let's use the Condense Data utility:

Go to the File tab and select Utilities.
Select Condense Data.
Select Remove the transactions you select from your company file, then click Next.
Select the transactions you want to remove, then select Next.
Choose how transactions would be summarized, and then click on Next.
Select how inventory should be condensed, then select Next.
Choose the recommended transactions you want to remove, then select Next.
Select the List of entries you want to remove, then select Next.
Click Begin Condense, then wait for the process to complete and select Close.

To know more about reducing the overall file size while keeping your data and details, please refer to this article: Use the Condensed Data utility.

Furthermore, here's an article you can use to learn how to personalize reports in QBDT and see the information that matters to you most: Customize reports in QBDT.

I'm available to address any other questions or concerns with removing unnecessary old data files in QBDT. Take care.

BigRedConsulting

@CarlSJ RE: Then, let's condense data to remove old transactions on the file:

Why are you offering such advise? The OP didn't ask about removing older data from their company files.

Did you even read the question? Doesn't seem like it.

BigRedConsulting

@Stad1um-22-71 RE: How do I know what I can safely get rid of?

You can basically get rid of everything except the *.QBW Company files. All of your financial data is in those files.

However, if you are using the company files, many of the other file types you mention will reappear as you open each *.QBW file.

T

Tennerman

How can I remove data out of company file going back to 1996? Would love to delete everything except last 7 years. I have Desktop 2024 Enterprise Gold

Thank you,

Troy