===How can I access my library from multiple computers?  Can I store my Zotero library and associated files on an external drive?===

The best way to access your Zotero library from multiple computers is to use [[:sync|Zotero syncing]]. Zotero syncing will automatically sync your library data using the Zotero servers. Attachment files can be synced using the Zotero servers or using a third-party [[:sync#webdav|WebDAV servers]].

You absolutely should not store your Zotero database in a cloud storage folder (e.g., Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive), which [[data_directory_in_cloud_storage_folder|will lead to data corruption]]. You can, however, configure Zotero to [[:sync#alternative_syncing_solutions|sync your attachment files using these services]] while using Zotero syncing to sync your library data.

If, for whatever reason, you cannot use Zotero's built-in sync features, you can also store your [[:zotero_data|Zotero data directory]] on an external hard drive and use this to move your Zotero data between computers. You can set your Zotero installation on each computer to point to the external drive in the [[preferences/advanced|Advanced]] pane of Zotero preferences.

Another option is to [[portable_zotero|run a copy of Zotero directly from a portable drive]].

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