Read Before Updating to ZBrush 2026.2: Project File Locations and Data Safety

Important Information for Users Updating from 2026.1.0 and 2026.1.1

Will updating to ZBrush 2026.2 delete my project files?

No. ZBrush updates do not target or delete user-created project files.

However, if files were saved inside the ZBrush installation directory (for example inside Program Files), those files may be removed during the update process. This is because the installation directory can be replaced or rebuilt as part of the update.

Where should I NOT save my work?

Do not save projects inside the ZBrush installation folder, such as:

C:\Program Files\Maxon ZBrush 2026\

Any folders inside this location (including ZProjects if created there) are not safe for storing user data.

Where should I save my work instead?

Use one of the following locations:

• ZBrush user content directories
• Documents, Desktop, or another custom folder
• Any location outside of the ZBrush installation directory

These locations are not affected by updates or reinstalls.

Why are my files showing as missing in LightBox?

If LightBox shows a question mark or missing file, it means the file is no longer present at the location it was originally saved.

This commonly happens if files were stored inside the installation directory and that directory was replaced during an update.

What is the ZBrushData2026 folder used for?

C:\Users\Public\Documents\ZBrushData2026

This folder is used for:

• QuickSave files
• Temporary data
• System-managed content

It is not the default location for manually saved project files unless you explicitly saved them there.

Can I recover files that were saved in the installation directory?

Possibly, but it depends on the system.

You can try:

• Windows File History or backups
• System Restore or shadow copies
• File recovery software

Recovery may be limited if the data has already been overwritten.

Why did this not happen before?

With the newer folder structure introduced in recent versions, the separation between application files and user data is more important than ever.

Saving files inside the installation directory has always carried risk, but it may not have been as noticeable until now.

Best Practice Going Forward

Always store your work outside of the ZBrush installation directory. This ensures your projects remain safe across updates, reinstalls, and version changes.