Find the data you actually need without guessing a platform path or treating download cache as a backup.
The installed application, Steam game, r2modman profile, mod configuration, and shared download cache serve different purposes. Deleting one does not necessarily repair another. Before moving or removing files, identify which layer produced the symptom and whether that data can be reconstructed.
Windows, AppImage, native Linux packages, Flatpak, and Proton have different path and permission models. Use Settings, the active profile, file modification times, and Steam’s Browse local files action to identify the current locations. A path copied from another platform can be valid text and still point to the wrong environment.
The cache lets profiles reuse packages and reduces repeated downloads. It does not replace a profile export, custom-config copy, or save backup. Clear it only when evidence points to a corrupted package or space problem, and expect required files to download again.
Export each important profile, copy unique local mods and configuration within license limits, and separately back up game saves. On the new machine, install the appropriate platform build, create an empty profile, verify game paths, import one profile, and test before migrating the rest.
On Flatpak and Steam Deck, grant access to the actual Steam library rather than broadly exposing the home directory. On Windows, avoid compensating for a wrong path by permanently running the manager and game as administrator.
Cache and installed profile data are different concepts, but always read the current UI warning and export important profiles before destructive cleanup.
It may carry stale paths and platform-specific data. Prefer profile export plus deliberate migration of local files and saves.
Use the active profile, Settings, recent modification times, and project documentation together. Do not delete every similarly named directory found by system search.
Research note: September 13, 2026 snapshot. Release assets and platform behavior can change; verify important details again before installation.
Recommended path: read this guide → download or create a minimal profile → record the result → expand to the full modpack.