Where Does EMQX Store Data and Config?
EMQX keeps config in emqx.conf beside the install with the Mnesia database in data/mnesia underneath.
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EMQX splits state between a config file and a data tree. The emqx.conf file sets listeners, zones, and plugins, while retained messages and client state persist in the Mnesia database under the data folder. Install method decides the parent path.
Package installs, archives, and Docker images each root these differently. Check the running node with emqx ctl status paths rather than guessing. Back up the config with a data snapshot for restorable pairs.
Where EMQX stores this, by platform
/var/lib/emqx/data/mnesia
Retained messages and client state here on package installs. Config sits in emqx.conf under /etc/emqx. Docker layouts remap both, so inspect mounts.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the EMQX config file?
As emqx.conf under /etc/emqx on package installs or etc beside the release in archives. Listener and zone sections live there. Reload with a node restart for most keys.
How do I back up EMQX?
Copy emqx.conf with a snapshot of the Mnesia data folder taken while the node is stopped. Client sessions rebuild on reconnect. Keep cluster seeds documented for restores.
Notice an outdated path? Let us know.