Where Are DayZ Saves and Config Files Stored?
DayZ local profile and config folder in Documents, and why characters live on servers instead of your PC.
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DayZ has no local character save to find. Your survivor, stash and vehicles persist in the server hive database, which is why a fresh PC keeps your character once you log in.
What lives on your disk is the Arma-style profile: name, controls, graphics settings and DayZ.cfg. That Documents folder is worth backing up, just not for the reason new players expect.
Where DayZ stores this, by platform
%USERPROFILE%\Documents\DayZ
Holds DayZ.cfg and your profile files with settings and keybinds. Character data is server-side in the hive, so reinstalling loses nothing but local settings. Server admins find world state in storage_1 inside the mission folder on the server, not on clients.
Frequently asked questions
Can I back up my DayZ character locally?
No. Characters live in the server hive database tied to your account. Only settings and profiles sit in Documents\DayZ.
How do I reset DayZ settings without reinstalling?
Delete DayZ.cfg and the profile files in Documents\DayZ with the game closed. The game regenerates defaults on next launch while your character stays intact on the server.
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