.QBM: QuickBooks Portable Company File

This file type has been offered only for a couple of years; however, it does not replace the usefulness of the QuickBooks .QBB file type. Here is a list of some of the advantages and limitations of sharing this type of data file:

• The compressed file size makes a .QBM a perfect choice for attaching to an email or moving from one computer location to another.

• The file type does not replace a .QBB backup because it lacks some of the needed transaction logs.

• The file cannot be opened until it is restored. To restore a portable company file, click File, Open or Restore Company and select the Restore a Portable File option.

• When restored, the file extension becomes a .QBW (see the pros and cons listed earlier).

• Changes made to a restored version of this file type cannot be merged later into the original data file.