c# - Where to store windows program data files?

Question

My program contains a sql lite db file which my program creates after first run and then stores the data inside updon app usage. The database builds up over a period of time. The db file is created in the installation directory of the program

I have to update the app on a regular basis when there are bugs fixed, so basically I publish a new msi installer, the installer removes old installation files except db file and install new program files.

Some user's do not install it to the default location so in their selected location the db file is not present.

I want to know if it's ok to store data files to some program data folder outside the install dir ? so that every new update of my program can access the data from that program data folder.. ?

Is there any program data directory in windows xp, vista and 7 ? and how to access it in C#/

Answer 1

Have a look Environment.SpecialFolder Enum to decide about the right place for your data.

I would vote for Recent folder though, here are other options:

• ApplicationData (Current users roaming profile)
• CommonApplicationData (All users on local machine)
• LocalApplicationData (Current user on local machine)

Get the folder of your choice with

Environment.GetFolderPath(Environment.SpecialFolder.xxx))