NVivo: Data loss - Missing project data, unable to find my project

NVivo project files: Windows = .nvp, Mac = .nvpx. Stored in Documents by default. Check backups (.nvb Windows, .nvpx~ Mac) if missing.

Aug 25, 2026
Knowledge

Title

Answer

NVivo project files are stored by default in the Documents folder of the computer where NVivo is installed. They are external to the NVivo application which means that even if NVivo application is removed from your computer, the project files are unaffected. They are similar to .docx or .doc MS Word files in that they can be transferred or sent to other computers/users.

NVivo Windows project files have .nvp extension.
NVivo Mac project files have a .nvpx extension.

If you are unable to find your project file, we recommend you search all your mapped drives to be sure they weren't saved in an unexpected location, including external backups. If you are unable to locate a .nvp or .nvpx file, please check for the backup files:
Windows - .nvb , stored in a folder named "NVivo Recovery" under Documents.
Mac - .nvpx~ , stored only while the project is open, can be left behind if the project is not saved and closed successfully

URL Name

Data-loss-Missing-project-data-unable-to-find-my-project

NVivo: Data loss - Missing project data, unable to find my project

Information

Related Articles

Trending Articles