Difference between Local, Locallow, Roaming folder.

Hi Rajneesh, This is Ramesh.

Both Local and Roaming folders contain per-user application data.

On a domain network, the files and subfolders under the "Roaming" directory are synced to other devices if you log in to your account on a different computer on the same domain.

The "Local" folder under "Appdata" doesn't roam to other devices. They're stored on the local machine.

The "LocalLow" folder is used by apps running with low integrity, such as web browsers. Even Office apps write to that folder, though don't usually run under low integrity level. Low-integrity apps can't write to the "Local" or "Roaming" folders.

Great info, Ramesh! Just to add a bit more to what you mentioned.

The LocalLow folder is indeed where low-integrity apps store their data, and it’s more restrictive compared to Local and Roaming. It’s mainly used for apps that run with tighter security controls, which is why you’ll see browsers and certain Office apps writing here.

Also, just a quick note about the Roaming folder: it’s super useful if you’re in a networked environment, as it ensures that your app settings and data follow you around when you log into different devices on the same domain. But like you said, anything in the Local folder stays put on the machine it’s saved on, so it doesn’t sync across devices.