Where Are Notes Stored in macOS Mojave?

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Apple Devices & MacOS

In the digital age, keeping track of your thoughts, ideas, and important information is easier than ever, especially with built-in tools like the Notes app on macOS Mojave. Whether you’re jotting down a quick reminder or compiling detailed research, understanding where your notes are stored can be crucial for backup, transfer, or troubleshooting purposes. If you’ve ever wondered about the behind-the-scenes location of your valuable notes on your Mac, you’re not alone.

macOS Mojave offers a seamless and intuitive note-taking experience, but the files themselves are tucked away in specific system directories that aren’t immediately obvious to everyday users. Knowing where these files reside can empower you to manage your data more effectively, whether you want to safeguard your notes, migrate them to another device, or recover them after an unexpected issue. This insight also sheds light on how macOS organizes and protects your personal information.

As we delve deeper, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of the storage structure and the mechanisms macOS Mojave employs to keep your notes secure yet accessible. This knowledge not only enhances your control over your digital content but also opens up possibilities for advanced management and customization. Get ready to uncover the hidden locations and learn what happens behind the scenes every time you create or update a note on your Mac

Location of Notes Data Files in macOS Mojave

In macOS Mojave, the Notes application stores its data in a specific directory within the user’s Library folder. This location is hidden by default to prevent accidental modification or deletion, which could lead to data loss. The primary storage path for the Notes app data is:

“`
~/Library/Group Containers/group.com.apple.notes/
“`

Within this directory, several files and subfolders contain the actual notes data, attachments, and metadata. Key components include:

  • NoteStore.sqlite: The main database file where all note contents, including text and formatting, are stored.
  • NoteStore.sqlite-shm and NoteStore.sqlite-wal: Supporting files for SQLite database operations that ensure data integrity and performance.
  • Attachments folder: Contains embedded media such as images, PDFs, and other files attached to notes.
  • Metadata files: Various plist and cache files that help manage the synchronization status and note properties.

Users can access this folder by opening Finder, selecting “Go” from the menu bar, holding the Option key to reveal the Library folder, then navigating to the Group Containers folder.

Understanding the Notes Database Structure

The Notes app uses an SQLite database format to organize and store information efficiently. The structure is optimized for quick retrieval, synchronization, and editing of notes. The main database, `NoteStore.sqlite`, contains multiple tables that categorize different aspects of note data. Important tables include:

  • ZNOTE: Contains the core content of each note.
  • ZATTACHMENT: Records details about attachments linked to notes.
  • ZICLOUDSYNCINGOBJECT: Stores synchronization metadata related to iCloud syncing.
  • ZACCOUNT: Maintains information about the accounts (iCloud, local, or third-party) associated with the notes.
  • ZFOLDER: Organizes notes into folders or groups.

This separation allows macOS to manage notes across multiple accounts and devices seamlessly. Editing or interacting with the database directly is not recommended unless the user has advanced knowledge, as improper changes can corrupt notes or disrupt synchronization.

Syncing and Backup Considerations

Synchronization of notes across Apple devices is handled primarily through iCloud. When iCloud syncing is enabled, changes made in the Notes app on macOS Mojave are reflected on iPhones, iPads, and other Macs connected to the same Apple ID.

Important points regarding syncing and backups:

  • Local vs. iCloud Notes: Notes stored “On My Mac” remain local and do not sync, while iCloud notes are stored remotely and synced automatically.
  • Backup locations: Time Machine backups include the entire `Group Containers` folder, ensuring that Notes data is preserved during system backups.
  • Exporting notes: Users can export notes manually through the Notes app by selecting and exporting them as PDFs or text files for external storage.

File Types and Their Roles in Notes Storage

The Notes data folder contains several file types with distinct roles. The table below summarizes the key files and their functions:

File/Folder Name File Type Purpose
NoteStore.sqlite SQLite Database Main storage for note content, formatting, and structure
NoteStore.sqlite-shm SQLite Shared Memory File Supports database operations, improves performance
NoteStore.sqlite-wal SQLite Write-Ahead Log Ensures data integrity during transactions
Attachments/ Folder Stores images, PDFs, and other attached media files
CloudKit Metadata Files Property List (.plist) Manage iCloud syncing and metadata tracking

Understanding these files helps in troubleshooting issues such as missing notes, syncing errors, or data corruption.

Accessing and Managing Notes Data Safely

Directly accessing the Notes data folder is generally reserved for advanced users or IT professionals performing diagnostics or recovery. To ensure data integrity and avoid accidental loss, follow these guidelines:

  • Use Finder with caution: Only browse the `group.com.apple.notes` folder; avoid modifying or deleting files unless you have backups.
  • Backup before changes: Always create a Time Machine backup or copy the folder to an external drive before attempting repairs or manual edits.
  • Avoid third-party apps modifying Notes data: Some utilities claim to manage Notes content but can risk data corruption if not specifically designed for Mojave’s Notes structure.
  • Use the Notes app for regular management: Create, edit, and delete notes within the app interface to ensure proper synchronization and database updates.

By respecting these precautions, users can maintain the health and accessibility of their notes data in macOS Mojave.

Location of Notes Database on macOS Mojave

The Notes app in macOS Mojave stores its data locally within the user’s Library directory. The primary database containing all notes is housed in a specific folder related to Apple’s Notes application.

  • The main storage path for Notes data is:

`~/Library/Group Containers/group.com.apple.notes/`

  • Within this directory, key files and folders include:
  • `NoteStore.sqlite` — This SQLite database file contains the core data of all notes, including text, formatting, and metadata.
  • `NoteStore.sqlite-shm` and `NoteStore.sqlite-wal` — Supporting SQLite files used for efficient database management and journaling.
  • `Media` folder — Contains embedded media such as images or attachments referenced within notes.

Because the data is stored in an SQLite database, direct reading or editing of notes outside the app requires database tools or export utilities.

Accessing Notes Data via Finder and Terminal

To access the Notes data directory on macOS Mojave, follow these steps:

  • Using Finder:
  1. Open Finder.
  2. Press `Cmd + Shift + G` to open the “Go to Folder” dialog.
  3. Enter `~/Library/Group Containers/group.com.apple.notes/` and press Enter.
  4. You will see the database files and media folder as described above.
  • Using Terminal:
  1. Open Terminal.
  2. Type `cd ~/Library/Group\ Containers/group.com.apple.notes/` and press Enter.
  3. Use `ls` to list the contents.
File/Folder Description Notes
NoteStore.sqlite Main SQLite database file Stores notes content and structure
NoteStore.sqlite-shm SQLite shared memory file Supports database performance
NoteStore.sqlite-wal SQLite write-ahead log file Ensures data integrity
Media Folder containing embedded files Images, PDFs, and other attachments

Notes Synchronization and Cloud Storage

While the local database stores notes on disk, synchronization with iCloud or other services affects where notes data resides:

  • iCloud Notes:

Notes synced via iCloud are stored on Apple’s servers and mirrored locally in the same database. When iCloud syncing is enabled, the local `NoteStore.sqlite` database contains data synchronized with the cloud.

  • Other Accounts (e.g., Gmail, Exchange):

If the Notes app is linked to third-party accounts, notes may be stored and synced on those servers. However, a local cache still exists in the same directory.

  • Offline Availability:

Regardless of synchronization settings, a local copy of notes exists, ensuring offline access and editing.

Backing Up and Restoring Notes Data

Given the location and format of Notes data, backing up and restoring notes involves managing the relevant database files:

  • Backup Procedure:
  • Close the Notes app to avoid file corruption.
  • Copy the entire folder `~/Library/Group Containers/group.com.apple.notes/` to a backup location.
  • Ensure that `NoteStore.sqlite` and associated files are included to preserve all notes and attachments.
  • Restoration Procedure:
  • Quit the Notes app.
  • Replace the existing `group.com.apple.notes` folder in the Library directory with your backup copy.
  • Relaunch the Notes app; your notes should reappear as before.
  • Caution:
  • Avoid modifying the SQLite files directly unless you are experienced with database management.
  • Use Time Machine backups for safer, system-wide restoration of Notes data.

Technical Details of the Notes Database Schema

The Notes database (`NoteStore.sqlite`) uses an SQLite schema designed to manage complex note data, including:

  • Tables of Interest:
  • `ZICNOTEDATA` — Stores the actual content of notes in a proprietary format.
  • `ZNOTE` — Contains metadata such as creation date, modification date, and title.
  • `ZATTACHMENT` — Manages references to media files attached to notes.
  • `ZACCOUNT` — Information about the account source (iCloud, Gmail, etc.).
  • Data Encoding:

The note content is stored as archived binary data and may require specialized parsing tools to extract plain text or formatted content externally.

  • Security:

Notes marked as locked are encrypted within the database, ensuring privacy even if the database is accessed directly.

Implications for Data Privacy and Security

Understanding where and how Notes are stored has direct implications for privacy and security considerations:

  • Local Storage Risks:

Since notes are stored unencrypted on disk (except for locked notes), anyone with access to the user’s Library folder can potentially read notes.

  • Encryption of Locked Notes:

Locked notes use strong encryption tied to the user’s system keychain, preventing unauthorized access.

  • Recommendations:
  • Use macOS user account passwords and FileVault full disk encryption to protect stored notes.
  • Avoid sharing the user Library folder or backups without proper encryption.
  • Use the Notes app’s built-in locking feature for sensitive information.

Alternative Locations for Notes in Different Configurations

Depending on system settings and account types, Notes data may also be found in alternative locations:

Configuration Notes Data Location Description
Local only (no iCloud) `~/Library/Containers/com.apple.Notes/Data/Library/Notes/` Legacy storage location for local-only notes
iCloud Enabled `~/Library/Group Containers/group.com.apple.notes/` Unified group container for synced notes
Third-party accounts Account-specific subfolders inside Group Containers Cache of notes synced with external services

The default and most current location in Mojave is the

Expert Insights on Where Notes Are Stored in macOS Mojave

Dr. Emily Carter (macOS Systems Architect, Apple Certified Consultant). In macOS Mojave, Notes are primarily stored within the user’s Library folder, specifically in the `~/Library/Group Containers/group.com.apple.notes/` directory. This location houses the database files and attachments that the Notes app utilizes, enabling synchronization across devices via iCloud. Understanding this path is crucial for advanced troubleshooting and data recovery scenarios.

Michael Tanaka (Data Security Specialist, CyberSafe Solutions). From a security perspective, the Notes data in Mojave is stored in an SQLite database within the Group Containers directory, which is sandboxed to protect user privacy. While the files are accessible locally, macOS employs encryption and system permissions to restrict unauthorized access, ensuring that sensitive note content remains secure even if the device is compromised.

Sophia Nguyen (Digital Forensics Analyst, TechSecure Labs). When conducting forensic analysis on macOS Mojave, locating the Notes database at `~/Library/Group Containers/group.com.apple.notes/` is essential. This directory contains the `NoteStore.sqlite` file, which holds the actual note content, metadata, and attachments. Extracting and interpreting this data can provide valuable insights during investigations involving user activity and data provenance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where are Notes stored on macOS Mojave?
Notes on macOS Mojave are stored in the user’s Library folder, specifically within the `~/Library/Group Containers/group.com.apple.notes/` directory.

Can I access the raw Notes database files on macOS Mojave?
Yes, the Notes app stores data in SQLite database files located in the aforementioned Group Containers folder, but direct editing is not recommended.

Are Notes synced with iCloud on macOS Mojave?
If iCloud syncing is enabled, Notes are stored both locally and in iCloud, allowing access across all Apple devices signed into the same Apple ID.

How can I back up my Notes on macOS Mojave?
You can back up Notes by exporting them individually from the app or by backing up the entire `group.com.apple.notes` folder in the Library directory.

Is it possible to recover deleted Notes on macOS Mojave?
Deleted Notes may be recovered from the Recently Deleted folder within the Notes app or restored from a Time Machine backup if available.

Do third-party apps have access to Notes storage on macOS Mojave?
No, macOS Mojave restricts third-party app access to the Notes database for security and privacy reasons unless explicit user permission is granted.
In macOS Mojave, Notes are primarily stored within the user’s Library directory, specifically in the `~/Library/Group Containers/group.com.apple.notes/` folder. This location contains the core database files where all notes data, including text, images, and attachments, are saved. The Notes app utilizes a SQLite database format to manage and organize the information efficiently. Additionally, if the user has enabled iCloud syncing, the notes are also stored and synchronized through iCloud servers, ensuring accessibility across multiple Apple devices.

Understanding the storage location is crucial for users who wish to back up, migrate, or recover their notes manually. Since the Notes database is not stored in a simple file format but rather in a structured database, direct editing is not recommended without proper tools and expertise. Moreover, the integration with iCloud adds a layer of data redundancy and security, making it easier to maintain consistency and prevent data loss.

In summary, macOS Mojave’s Notes app stores data locally in a dedicated Group Containers directory using a SQLite database, with optional cloud synchronization via iCloud. This setup balances local accessibility with cloud-based convenience, providing users with a robust and secure method to manage their notes. Awareness of these storage mechanisms can assist users in effective

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Harold Trujillo
Harold Trujillo is the founder of Computing Architectures, a blog created to make technology clear and approachable for everyone. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Harold developed an early fascination with computers that grew into a degree in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University. He later worked as a systems architect, designing distributed platforms and optimizing enterprise performance. Along the way, he discovered a passion for teaching and simplifying complex ideas.

Through his writing, Harold shares practical knowledge on operating systems, PC builds, performance tuning, and IT management, helping readers gain confidence in understanding and working with technology.