ClickOnce deletes my local database when it updates.. how not to?

Question

I'm using ClickOnce to deploy my application. When the app runs the first time, if a db doesn't exist, it creates one.

Problem is, when I update, it removes the local database. Is there a way to tell it to ignore it?

Answer 1

I imagine you're putting it in the applications directory... don't!

Put it in Environment.GetFolderPath(Environment.SpecialFolder.ApplicationData or Environment.SpecialFolder.LocalApplicationData).

Answer 2

Don't include the database in the deployment. Implement your own db creation (using script) when the database isn't present.

Answer 3

In the project's Publish options, under Application Files, is the database file's Publish status set to Data File?