XnView MP Tags Lost on Migration: Why It Happens and How to Fix It
If categories disappear after moving computers, stop before retagging the whole collection. The images, catalog, and file paths may have moved separately. Missing entries in the interface do not establish that the old category data was erased.
Correction, September 8, 2026: An earlier version said XnView MP metadata was locked to one installation and lacked export options. XnView's author confirms that catalog categories can be exported to file metadata.
1. Preserve the old installation's data
Keep a copy of the images, database, relevant settings, and sidecars before replacing or rebuilding anything. In a 2024 support thread, the author confirms that categories live in the catalog and can also be exported to image metadata. The same discussion points users to the application's configured paths when locating its database. XnView category storage discussion
Check the paths shown in your installed version rather than guessing a fixed AppData directory. If the old computer still works, use it to inspect several images whose categories you recognize.
2. Check what actually traveled
| Item | What to verify |
|---|---|
| Image files | Can both installations open the same originals? |
| Catalog | Did you copy or export the data containing category assignments? |
| Paths | Do the catalog's locations match the new folders and drive letters? |
| Embedded metadata | Were category keywords written into these specific files? |
| Sidecars | Did the related metadata files travel with the images? |
A cross-computer discussion distinguishes category exports and file-path adjustments. It is a dated support discussion, not a promise that every current build needs the same steps. Match the process to your installed version.
3. Test metadata export on copies
XnView's metadata export discussion describes exporting catalog categories as IPTC or XMP keywords. Inspect the settings for your version and try a small copied set first.
After export, open those copies in the destination and check the actual category names, hierarchy, ratings, and labels you need. Do not assume every format stores the same fields or that every reader maps them in the same way. Writing metadata changes files; keep the unmodified source set until the result is verified.
4. Check the new library before cutting over
Move a sample containing nested categories, more than one category per image, and files from different folders. Restart the destination app and confirm that its searches still find them. Retain a backup that you have tested in a separate location.
If the old catalog is unavailable, inspect any saved backups and embedded metadata before deciding the organization must be rebuilt. Avoid overwriting your only remaining database with an empty new one.
Should you switch tools?
A successful backup and restore may solve the problem without a new organizer. Keep XnView MP if its viewing and conversion workflow fits.
refern is a different option when you want a searchable reference library and a canvas together. It keeps organization in associated workspace data. Copying only the image folder does not necessarily copy that data, especially when a custom location is configured. Normal workspace indexing uses existing files; explicit imports and file actions can create or change them.
There is no verified one-click XnView-to-refern catalog migration described here. Test the exact formats and embedded fields you expect to transfer. Do not assume all sidecars or proprietary catalog fields will be read.
For a tool-neutral backup checklist, read how to back up your reference library. For tagging after a successful move, see tag reference images.
Frequently asked questions
Are XnView MP categories always trapped in the database?
No. The author confirms that categories are stored in the catalog and can be exported to file metadata. The result depends on your export settings and file formats.
Why can categories disappear after moving computers?
The copied images may not contain the catalog data, or stored paths may not match the new location. Check the old database and a sample file before assuming the category data is lost.
Does moving a database beside images guarantee portability?
No. Include the database, source files, settings, and any sidecars, then test the new paths and restore behavior. A nearby database is useful but is not a verified migration by itself.
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