Where Does Element Desktop Store Session Data?
Element Matrix client config and IndexedDB session data on Windows, macOS and Linux.
Last updated
Element Desktop follows Electron conventions: a per OS app data folder with config plus IndexedDB session stores. Login tokens and encryption keys live there, so treat copies like passwords.
The reliable fix for most login weirdness is clearing the app data through the OS, not reinstalling. Exact folder name follows the Element product name on each platform.
Where Element stores this, by platform
%APPDATA%\Element
Config.json plus storages and IndexedDB under here. Quit Element fully (tray icon included) before copying or clearing.
~/Library/Application Support/Element
Same role as Windows. In Finder use Go > Go to Folder. Exact folder name may vary by build (Element versus Riot legacy names).
~/.config/Element
Same layout. Flatpak installs redirect under the Flatpak data dir instead.
Frequently asked questions
Element forgot my login after an update. What helps?
Check whether a second profile or Snap/Flatpak copy holds the live session. Copying the whole Element folder across matching installs restores it.
Can I run two Element accounts with separate data?
Yes with separate OS users or a separate profile flag pointing at distinct data dirs. Do not share one folder between running copies.
Notice an outdated path? Let us know.