> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://icij.gitbook.io/datashare/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://icij.gitbook.io/datashare/usage/faq/general/can-i-use-an-external-drive-as-data-source.md).

# Can I use an external drive as data source?

**Warning**: this requires some technological knowledge.

You can make Datashare follow soft links : add `--followSymlinks` when Datashare is launched.

If you're on Mac or Windows, you must change the launch script.

If you're on Linux, you can add the option after the Datashare command.


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