Where does bitcoin-qt store the block chain?

[manuel]

Can I copy the file(s) from one machine to another so I don't have to re download the whole blockchain for hours and hours?

Thanks.

[Seccour]

I think yes.

So test, it's cost you nothing

[falcoiii]

Can I copy the file(s) from one machine to another so I don't have to re download the whole blockchain for hours and hours?

Thanks.

My copy is in C:\Users\{myname}\AppData\Roaming\Bitcoin

I would shut down the client before copying.

[BookLover]

Answer to title question: Depends on you OS.  It's on the Bitcoin wiki https://en.bitcoin.it/wiki/Data_directory.

Answer to thread question: Yes it is possible but you may need to move more than just the blockchain files.  They changed how it works with new blockchain format so I'm not sure what steps to take to ensure a successful transfer.  However, I do know it is possible and not to complicated.

Edit: Wow this forum is getting active two people posted while I was writing my answer.

[manuel]

Answer to thread question: Yes it is possible but you may need to move more than just the blockchain files.  They changed how it works with new blockchain format so I'm not sure what steps to take to ensure a successful transfer.  However, I do know it is possible and not to complicated.

Anybody know what I need to move in total?  I'm trying to copy from PC to Mac because nobody seems to be able to explain why the Mac client practically sets my CPU on fire

https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=314706.0

[dserrano5]

Copy at least the blocks and database directories.

[grue]

if you're moving cross platform, consider this: https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=145386.0