EndNote 2025

It is a good idea to back up your EndNote library often by making a compressed file.

A compressed EndNote library puts your regular EndNote file (.enl) and its Data folder (.data) into one smaller file.

This file ends with (.enlx).

You can save your whole library or part of it as a compressed file. This way you can:

• Make a backup copy

• Email it to a friend or colleague

• Use it on different computers

To save a compressed library file:

• Go to File menu and select Compressed Library (.enlx)

• When the box appears, you can choose to either Create the compressed library or Create & Email it
• Pick other options if you need to
• To save all groups, choose All references in Group/Group set
• Click Next and save the file where you want
• If you chose Create & Email, your email program will open with the file attached

To open your compressed library file:

Find the saved file. It has an .enlx ending, which means it is compressed.
Open the file. Now it will have an .enl ending, which means it is uncompressed. You will also see a .data folder in the same place.

If you use EndNote in OneView:
First open EndNote, then choose File > Open Library and select the .enlx file.

You can now keep adding references on the same computer or on another computer.