ActiveWords 5 introduces important changes to how data is stored and managed. These changes are foundational and affect how ActiveWords behaves across versions.
This article explains what has changed, why it changed, and what it means when you upgrade to ActiveWords 5.
What Changed in ActiveWords 5
In previous versions, ActiveWords used a version-specific folder structure and database format.
ActiveWords 5 moves away from that approach by:
- Using a single ActiveWords folder
- Introducing a new internal database structure
- Separating ActiveWords 5 data from earlier versions
These changes are part of a broader effort to modernize the platform.
Why the Folder Structure Was Updated
The updated folder structure simplifies how ActiveWords manages data internally and prepares the product for future versions.
Key benefits include:
- Cleaner organization with fewer version-specific folders
- Easier long-term maintenance
- A more flexible foundation for new features
While most users will not interact directly with these folders, the change affects how data is handled behind the scenes.
Database Changes and Compatibility
ActiveWords 5 uses a new database format that is not compatible with ActiveWords 4.
This means:
- Actions created or edited in ActiveWords 5 cannot be used in ActiveWords 4
- Switching back to ActiveWords 4 does not carry over V5-specific changes
This one-way behavior is intentional and supports ongoing development.
Important: ActiveWords 5 uses a new database structure. Actions that are created or edited in ActiveWords 5 cannot be used in ActiveWords 4, and if you return to ActiveWords 4, any changes made in ActiveWords 5 will not appear. This behavior is expected and supports future development.
What This Means When You Upgrade
Because of these changes, treat ActiveWords 5 as its own working version, not as a temporary copy of ActiveWords 4.
If you plan to switch back to ActiveWords 4:
- Avoid making large structural changes in V5 that you expect to reuse in V4
- Use ActiveWords 5 for new V5 workflows and features
- Expect your V4 setup to remain unchanged when you return
This approach helps avoid confusion when working across versions.
Can You Move Data Between Versions?
There is currently no supported way to migrate Actions created in ActiveWords 5 back to ActiveWords 4.
This limitation is by design because ActiveWords 5 uses a newer database format.
Who Should Pay Special Attention to This
These changes are especially important for:
- Power users with extensive Action libraries
- Users moving between ActiveWords 4 and ActiveWords 5
- Anyone managing shared or carefully organized Action sets
Understanding these differences helps avoid confusion and unexpected behavior.
What to Read Next
To learn more about how these changes affect installation and daily use, see:
