WhatsApp, the most used messaging app in the world, stores an encrypted database on each device to protect the privacy and security of its users. This file, commonly known as msgstore, is responsible for saving all conversations, media files, statuses, and chat activity logs, allowing you to restore all that information in case you change phones, reinstall the app, or troubleshoot any issues. Its management, storage, meaning, and capabilities are little-known but vital elements for ensuring the continuity and security of our conversations.
What is the WhatsApp msgstore file and what is it used for?
The file msgstore It is, technically, the database that WhatsApp uses to save a copy of all messages, files, chat information and much moreThese are encrypted files that, in addition to providing backup, increase privacy and make it difficult for third parties to access them. This local backup system is in addition to the cloud backup option (Google Drive or iCloud), but the msgstore is the physical file you can access directly, especially if you need to restore your chats manually. If you want to learn more about how to manage your backups, you can also check out our article on How to backup WhatsApp.
The msgstore file not only stores text messages, but also group and individual chat logs, shared files, voice notes, link information, vCards (shared contacts), and statuses. In addition, maintains an accurate chronology based on timestamps, which will allow you to retrieve conversations at the exact point on a specific date.
Where is msgstore located and how can I access it?
On older devices, the database msgstore It was located directly in the internal memory under the folder WhatsAppIn modern systems, the structure is usually deeper, usually in Android > media > com.whatsapp > WhatsApp > Databases. If your copy is stored on the SD card, the path would be WhatsApp> Databases. To manage these files, you can also check out our step-by-step guide on recover deleted messages on whatsapp.
Several msgstore files will appear in this directory, each corresponding to different backups generated automatically and periodically by the application. This way, if you have any problems or need to restore old chats, you can select the most suitable date based on the information you need to recover.
Plus, if you manage your files from a computer, simply connect your phone via a USB cable, access the internal storage, and navigate to the aforementioned location. This allows you to make additional copies on your PC or external drive, providing extra security for your important conversations.
Format and nomenclature of msgstore files
The name of the files msgstore follows a consistent structure that clearly indicates the date and type of encryption used. Names can appear in the following forms:
- msgstore.db.cryptXX
- msgstore-YYYY-MM-DD.1.db.cryptXX
- msgstore-YYYY-MM-DD(1).db.cryptXX
- msgstore-YYYY-MM-DD(2).db.cryptXX
- And so on, where 'XX' indicates the version number of the encryption and 'YYYY-MM-DD' the date of the copy.
For instance, msgstore-2023-11-14.1.db.crypt14 identifies a copy created on November 14, 2023, using the crypt14 encryption method, one of the most secure currently. The suffix .db confirms that it is a database, and cryptXX specifies the encryption protocol, with a higher number indicating greater encryption security. To better understand the differences in encryption, you can review our article on Privacy and encryption apps on WhatsApp.
Historically, WhatsApp has used several encryption systems, including crypt5, crypt7, crypt8, crypt10, crypt12 and the most current, crypt14All previous versions may still appear in older backups, but the app always uses the most recent version for the active backup.
Internal structure of the msgstore database
- Messages: Saves all conversations, both individual and group chats. You can find more information on how to manage your messages in recover WhatsApp without code.
- Media: References to images, videos, audios and files shared in chats.
- vcards: Shared contact information.
- Links: Links sent and received.
- Participation in groups: Member registrations, invitations and group movements.
- List status: Information on published and viewed statuses.
- SQLite: The underlying database format, which enables efficient management and access to information.
- timestamp: Everything is dated precisely.
This structure ensures that not only the texts are saved, but also the entire digital context of your interactions.
Can the msgstore file be deleted? Recommendations and risks
One of the most frequent doubts is whether You can delete the msgstore files to save space.The answer is yes, but there are nuances to consider. By deleting these files, you lose the ability to restore any chats or media files from a local copy, relying exclusively on the cloud copy. The file msgstore.db.crypt14 (or the most recent version) is the one the application is currently using; It should never be deleted if you want to keep your recent history.Deleting it would result in the complete loss of chat history on the device. To better understand the advantages and risks, check out our article on change your number on WhatsApp.
However, it's advisable to delete very old backups to free up space, keeping only the most recent backup and, if desired, additional backups in case you need a one-time restore. This management is even more important on devices with limited storage.
If you choose to delete backups, always do so from your phone's file explorer or when connecting the device to your computer, as explained above. Don't forget that clearing the WhatsApp cache can also delete these files, so make sure you have a backup if you need it.
How can I open, view, or retrieve information from msgstore?
The msgstore files are encryptedlarvae, nymphs, and adults, so cannot be opened or read with a standard text editor or application. To access its content it is essential to have the encryption key (key), stored exclusively on each device in /data/data/com.whatsapp/files/key, an area that's only accessible if your phone is rooted. This security system ensures that no one can read your messages, even if they have physical access to the file. You can find more information on how to protect your files in our article.
If you manage to access the key (for example, if you have root permissions), you will be able to use tools like whatsappviewer o Wha-pa (WhatsApp Parser) to decrypt and view chats. These programs allow you to load the database and key, display chats, attachments, contact lists, and even export them in different formats such as txt, html or jsonHowever, if your device isn't rooted or you don't have access to the key, no third-party app can decrypt these files, so be wary of websites or apps that promise otherwise.
Basic steps to decrypt msgstore files (root required)
- Extract the file msgstore.db.cryptXX from the WhatsApp Databases folder.
- Extract the key file (key) of the internal route of WhatsApp.
- Use a compatible tool, such as , to upload both files.
- Explore chats, export them, and analyze them in other formats.
There are also advanced forensic methods that allow for the examination and presentation of complete activity reports, images, calls, thumbnails, logs, and more, but all of them require deep physical access to the device and the aforementioned files.
Other ways to export and secure your WhatsApp chats
If you are looking for a simple way to export WhatsApp chatsThe app itself allows you to do this without having to explore complicated files or root your phone. Just follow these steps:
- Open WhatsApp and tap the three dots in the top right corner.
- Choose Settings, then enter Cat.
- Go to chat history and select Export chat.
- Choose the conversation you want to save and the format (with or without media files).
This way, you can secure a copy of your most important conversations in easily accessible and shareable formats, without relying on complex methods or risking information loss.
Cloud backup and backup management
WhatsApp allows you to sync your backups both locally (using msgstore files) and via cloud services (Google Drive or iCloud). It's important to note that while cloud backups are convenient and easy to restore, the msgstore file Local is your last line of defense if for some reason you lose access to your Google account or remote servers. Having both options enabled is the best strategy to prevent the loss of your conversations.
If you manage multiple backups, it's recommended to keep only the most recent ones and periodically make additional copies on other external devices. This way, you avoid overloading your storage and always have access to your conversations in case of an emergency.
The WhatsApp msgstore file It's an essential element for safeguarding and restoring your chat history. Knowing how to manage it, understanding its risks and possibilities, and knowing the legal and secure methods to access its content is the key to never losing relevant information and keeping your privacy safe.
[p>
One question: If you restore the phone, will the WhatsApp Database files be lost?
If you mean a hard reset, that is, resetting the mobile to the factory, then yes, it is lost.