# Creating dump files

Dump files are created when a component crashes and creates an exception code. They are useful for troubleshooting such crashes as they states at exactly what line or area of memory the crash occurred.

To create a dump file:

1. Create a new environment variable with the following name and value:

   Variable: `AREP_CRASH_DUMP_TYPE`

   Possible values: `FULL`, `MINI` or `NONE`

2. Restart both Replicate services.

3. This step is optional. If `AREP_CRASH_DUMP_TYPE` is set to `FULL` or `MINI`, navigate to the following registry key:

   HKEY\_LOCAL\_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\Windows Error Reporting\LocalDumps\repctl.exe

   Verify that the data value for the DumpType Binary Value is either 1 (`MINI`) or 2 (`FULL`).

4. After a crash occurs the dump files will be created in the following directory:

   `<Product_Dir>\minidumps`

   Information note

   When `AREP_CRASH_DUMP_TYPE` is set to `NONE`, no dump files will be created in the event of a crash.