> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.electricbolt.co.nz/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.electricbolt.co.nz/appfigurate-user-guide/settings/backup.md).

# Backup

You can export/backup all **exportable** app metadata records so you can either share them to another Appfigurate instance, or for safe keeping.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/3ghIqr8EilVAB0DGSAvN" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

Enter a passphrase used to encrypt the app metadata records. The passphrase must be 8 to 64 characters in length. Tap the `Backup` button to continue.

## Output method types

The available output methods differ depending on your device type:

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/G0qGo4trvO4rLWvDJx5t" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

### Console

You can export app metadata record(s) to the console. In macOS open `Console.app`. Select the iOS Simulator device in the left hand pane. Type `process:appfigurate` in the search box in the top right. Tap `Start` to start streaming events. Due to the length restrictions per log, you'll need to select all the `Appfigurate x of y:` records and paste them into a text editor.

![](/files/FjDo43VIVl0VNk7Xx6ly)

### macOS file system

On a iOS Simulator, you can select a directory from the host macOS file system to store the resulting .`apc` file containing the encrypted app metadata record(s).

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/fS2QThNUSL2Os7R43L1T" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

### Clipboard

You can export app metadata record(s) to the iOS clipboard. On an iOS Simulator the clipboard is shared with the macOS host.

### Mail

On a device with an email account, you can email the resulting `.apc` file containing the encrypted app metadata record(s) to a recipient.

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Tip:** Don't send the passphrase in the same email as the `.apc` file.
{% endhint %}

### Message

On a device with a text messaging app, you can send the resulting `.apc` file containing the encrypted app metadata record(s) to a phone number.

### iOS Document Picker

On an iOS Simulator or physical device you can use system document picker to select a directory in the device's local file system or iCloud Drive to store the resulting `.apc` file containing the encrypted app metadata record(s).

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/2eBt7qhUSgwg9kCI2Dmk" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

### QR code

The QR code option is available when [exporting](/appfigurate-user-guide/edit-app.md#export-share-app) a single app metadata record. For best results, place the device on a flat stable surface, ensuring no bright overhead lights or reflections are visible on the screen. Another device with a camera can Import using QR code function.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/bqRCbzWupWFAeJ4eBpiI" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

### iOS Share Sheet

On an iOS Simulator or physical device you can use the iOS Share Sheet to share or save the resulting `.apc` file containing the encrypted app metadata record(s).

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/FAmQP9XCIudK5XcDLYac" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>