> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://lima.gitbook.io/support/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://lima.gitbook.io/support/master.md).

# How to: Export your data from Lima

## **Option #1 (preferred): Use the Lima app on your computer**

If your Lima is functional, the best way to export your files from Lima is to use the Lima app on your computer.<br>

#### **1. Make sure all your Lima devices are connected to your router and functional**

#### 2. Launch the Lima app on your computer.&#x20;

If you don’t have the app installed on your computer anymore, you can download the last version [here](https://install.meetlima.com).

#### **3. Browse your files in the Lima drive and make sure they are all accessible.**  &#x20;

* On **Windows**, the Lima drive is available under the **My Computer** view. It uses drive letter L:\ by default.&#x20;
* On **Mac**, the Lima drive is accessible directly from your **Desktop**.

{% hint style="info" %}
&#x20;If some of your files are greyed out and **stay so** after 1h, we recommend trying to export your files by using **Option #2** below.
{% endhint %}

#### &#x20;4. Copy all the files in the Lima drive to another location&#x20;

Files can be copied either to your computer, either to another USB drive. Just make sure you have enough space available to store them at the destination.

## **Option #2: Decrypt the USB hard drive connected to your Lima**

If your Lima product is not functional or if you cannot access your files on a computer by using the Lima app as described in **Option #1** above, you have the option to extract your files directly from the USB hard drive connected to your Lima device.&#x20;

Because Lima encrypts the data stored on your USB hard drive, you’ll need the **Lima Decrypt Tool** to do so.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Note that the decrypt tool only works on the following platforms:

* **Windows**: version 8 and 10.
* **MacOS**: version 10.10 (Yosemite) and above

The tool is also available on Linux for experimental use.
{% endhint %}

Here’s how to proceed:<br>

#### **1. Disconnect the USB drive from your Lima device**

If you have **several Lima devices** including at least one Lima Ultra, try exporting your files from the USB hard drive attached to **your Lima Ultra first**.   &#x20;

{% hint style="info" %}
If your Lima is still connected to power, use the following process to disconnect your USB drive:

1. Disconnect your Lima device from the network
2. Wait 2 minutes
3. Unplug the power plug of your Lima device
4. Unplug the USB drive attached to your Lima device
   {% endhint %}

####

#### 2. Download the Decrypt tool on your computer:

Here are the download links:

* [Windows](https://install-meetlima.now.sh/bin/decrypt-tool/lima-decrypt-tool-1.1.0-win.exe)
* [Mac](https://install-meetlima.now.sh/bin/decrypt-tool/lima-decrypt-tool-1.1.0-mac.dmg)
* [Linux](https://install-meetlima.now.sh/bin/decrypt-tool/lima-decrypt-tool-1.1.0-linux-x86_64.AppImage)

#### 3. Run the Decrypt tool and follow the instructions.

Among other things, you’ll be asked to plug the USB drive you want to decrypt to your computer

#### &#x20;4. Your files will then be readable directly from the USB drive you’ve decrypted.