---
title: "How dataset settings work in MangoMap"
description: "Dataset settings change one dataset without breaking its map links. See the sections, what saves automatically, and how updating differs from importing."
sidebar:
  label: "How dataset settings work"
---

Dataset settings change one dataset while keeping its identity and map links. The page covers details, access, file replacement, and optional Dropbox sync.

## The settings sections

The side navigation links to these sections:

1. `Data details` — rename the dataset, edit its description, and preview its portal card.
2. `Access` — control public access and access-group permissions.
3. `Update from file` — replace the source data while keeping the dataset and its map layers.
4. `Sync` — connect Dropbox so changes to selected source files can update the dataset.

`Update from file` and `Sync` are not shown for raster or WMS datasets.

## Dataset view and dataset settings

Use the [dataset view](/docs/dataset-view) to preview geometry, inspect records, download vector data, see maps that use the dataset, or delete the dataset. Use dataset settings to change its configuration.
| Task | Surface |
| --- | --- |
| Preview geometry or browse records | Dataset view |
| Download a vector dataset | Dataset view |
| Rename or describe the dataset | Dataset settings → `Data details` |
| Change who can open or edit it | Dataset settings → `Access` |
| Replace its source data | Dataset settings → `Update from file` |
| Configure Dropbox updates | Dataset settings → `Sync` |

## Automatic saves

The name saves when you leave the field or press Enter. The multi-line description saves when you leave the field. Access toggles save when you change them.

File replacement and Dropbox actions start upload, processing, or connection flows. Wait for each flow to finish before you leave the page.

## Updating instead of importing

`Update from file` replaces data in the existing dataset. Its settings, access rules, and maps stay in place. Use this when a new file is the next version of the same data.

[Importing data](/docs/importing-data) creates a separate dataset, even when the file name matches an existing one.

## Dropbox sync

<a href="https://mangomap.com/pricing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="no-underline">
Enterprise and Agency only

</a>

Dropbox sync is plan-gated. Connect Dropbox and select the required file or files for the dataset format. Sync starts once the required files are selected. Raster and WMS datasets cannot use this section.

See [How to set up Dropbox sync](/docs/data-updates/set-up-dropbox-sync) for the workflow.

## Permissions

You need permission to edit a dataset before you can open its settings. You need permission to share it before you can manage the `Access` controls. A user may edit details without permission to change access.

See [Dataset access](/docs/dataset-access) and [Account roles](/docs/account-roles) for the combined permission model.