I try to upload a local database to an empty online database, As result the local database get empty

Michael090456
As soon as I try to upload a existing local database (zotero.sqlite and storage) to online, the local storage get be be cleared. This happens with Windows and Linux Mint operating system. I have selected "replace online by local" under settings. What's wrong? What can I do?
  • adamsmith
    Can you specify exactly what you're doing? Replace online library --> Reset should definitely work.
  • iagogv
    https://www.zotero.org/support/zotero_data#restoring_your_zotero_data_from_a_backup may help you
  • Michael090456
    I have used the procedure below:
    Restoring Your Zotero Data From a Backup and Overwriting Synced Changes

    If you or someone else made unwanted changes to your Zotero library and synced those changes to your online library, you may be able to restore data by using a local backup of your Zotero data directory.

    Temporarily disable auto-sync in the Sync tab of the Zotero settings.
    Follow the steps in the preceding section to restore from a backup of your Zotero data directory.
    Once you see your restored data, were you to sync again, the more recent data in the online library would replace the data you just restored, and you'll need to take steps to prevent that:

    The online database is empty, if re-new the Zotero account today. I have try to up-load a backup from October 2025. As long as the sync is off, I can work with the old datas. As soon as I set update online by local and activate manual sync my local database is melting down. It happens on Linux and windows - I'm using Zotero 8.0.3 German language.

    Thanks for help
  • dstillman Zotero Team
    edited today at 3:26pm
    That just means you're not actually running Replace Online Library. You have to click "Reset…" and then "Replace Data in Online Library" when it prompts you for confirmation. You shouldn't be starting a manual sync as long as your online library is empty, because that will just apply the remote deletions locally.
  • Michael090456
    Dear D.
    thanks the "Reset .. has solved the issue
    Michael
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