Embedding vs linking

When placing content you have control over whether files are embedded within the document or linked from their original disk locations.

Embedding vs linking

Embedding

A copy of the original file is embedded into the document. As a result, there is no means of checking if the original file is modified at a later date, but the file will be kept with the document when it is moved.

Linking

Instead of embedding, a link is created between the document and the file on disk to allow it to update (via Resource Manager) if changed on disk. The linked file is never stored in the document.

If one or more linked files have been moved or renamed since you last opened your document, you'll be prompted to locate the file the next time the document is opened.

File sizes and embedding/linking

Embedding resources means the document is portable at the expense of a greater file size—all the resources are stored in the document. Linked resources give a much smaller document file size as only link information is stored.

To set the default content placement policy:
  1. From the File menu, click New.
  2. From the dialog, choose an Image Placement Policy. The Prefer Embedded option stores the file in your document; Prefer Linked does not embed but maintains a link to the file, still in its original location.

You can change the policy at any time via File>Document Setup.

To automatically update linked content:
  1. From the Affinity Designer menu, select Preferences.
  2. From the Edit menu, select Preferences.
  3. On the General tab, check Automatically update linked resources when modified externally.
To change an embedded file to a linked file:
  1. From the View menu, select Resource Manager.
  2. From the manager, select the file to be linked and click Make linked.
  3. Use the dialog to navigate to a folder to which you want the embedded file to be saved out to and click Link.

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