---
layout: '@/layouts/DocsLayout.astro'
source: pirform
description: Learn how to create a file containing a backup of your Shine Forms certificates and company details.
---


:::success{title="Backup your certificates online for free"}
Keep copies of your certificate data outside your computer to access them if your computer breaks down, becomes damaged, or is stolen. Read more [here](https://www.shineforms.co.uk/docs/backup-online).
:::

:::info
Shine Forms backup files contain all your certificates, photos, documents, company details, logos, engineers, and instruments.

Shine Forms automatically takes backups before closing after changes. You can also create a backup anytime.
:::


# Creating a Backup

To create a new backup:

**1:** Go to the **Home Screen** and click **Backup Data**:

![Shine Forms Home Screen showing the Ribbon Data Actions](https://www.shineforms.co.uk/docs/_img/home-screen-ribbon-data-actions.png)

**2:** Confirm the action. Shine Forms will notify you when the backup is complete and offer to show the backup file:

![Backup complete notification window](https://www.shineforms.co.uk/docs/_img/information-backup-complete.png)

**3:** Click **Show me the backup file** to open Windows File Explorer with the backup file:

:::note
Backup files include the date and time they were created in their filenames. For example, a backup created on August 3, 2020, at 8\:06 am will be named accordingly:

![Backup file saved on disk example](https://www.shineforms.co.uk/docs/_img/backup-file-on-disk.png)
:::