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Why is it not possible to use Windows Explorer in a geodatabase?
In file geodatabases, it is not possible to use Windows Explorer to perform an operation on an individual dataset. Renaming and deleting individual files in a file geodatabase folder and copying files to another location cause data loss and can render the geodatabase unusable.
What happens if you delete a file in a geodatabase folder?
Renaming and deleting individual files in a file geodatabase folder and copying files to another location cause data loss and can render the geodatabase unusable. For example, if you use Windows Explorer to move files to another geodatabase folder, you won’t be able to access the data.
Do you need to make a copy of your geodatabase?
Just like when you work with other types of files, it is a good idea to regularly make a backup copy of your file geodatabase in case something goes wrong. Although not recommended, it is possible to copy a file geodatabase to another location by copying the folder to another location.
How does ArcGIS protect the integrity of data?
ArcGIS ensures data integrity by preventing multiple processes from simultaneously accessing data in conflicting ways. ArcGIS keeps track of processes by placing *.lock files in the file geodatabase folder each time a process accesses a dataset. When the process terminates, its *.lock files are automatically deleted.
Can You Copy A geodatabase to another folder?
Copying a file geodatabase in its entirety using Windows Explorer is fine to do. In this respect it is just like any other folder. What you cannot do is copy anything within a file geodatabase using Windows Explorer. There are a number of reasons and multiple workflows available for making copies of a geodatabase. Here are a few common cases.
When to use ArcGIS and not Windows Explorer?
Managing file geodatabases, including copying, renaming, and deleting data, should always be performed with ArcGIS and not with Windows Explorer. The tools in ArcGIS ensure that no data loss or other problems occur.
What kind of files are in a geodatabase?
The folder contains cryptically named files that hold geographic data, attribute data, index files, lock files, and a signature file, as well as other files. Each feature class or table in the geodatabase is stored in two or more files.