> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://codifi-fdm.gitbook.io/codifi-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://codifi-fdm.gitbook.io/codifi-docs/mobile-app/mapping-locations/working-offline-vs-online.md).

# Working Offline vs Online

One of the app's best features is that you can work without cell service — if you prepare properly.

#### What Works Offline (No Internet Needed)

✅ Viewing the map (if you downloaded offline areas)

✅ Capturing GPS locations — device GPS and external GPS both work

✅ Creating and editing Records

✅ Filtering and searching your local Records

✅ Viewing all location metadata

✅ Drawing points, lines, and polygons

✅ All your changes are saved locally

#### What Requires Internet

❌ Downloading offline map areas (do this before you leave!)

❌ Syncing your changes to the cloud

❌ Seeing other team members' new changes

❌ Loading map tiles you haven't downloaded

❌ Address/location search

#### Preparing for Offline Work

Read [Before You Head to the Field](/codifi-docs/mobile-app/mapping-locations/before-you-head-to-the-field.md)

**Step 1: Open your Project while online** This ensures all your existing Records are synced to your device.

**Step 2: Enable and download offline maps**

1. Open Project Details sheet
2. Tap **Offline Areas** button
3. Tap Download Offline Areas

**Step 3: Verify downloads** Check that your needed areas show as downloaded in the Layers sheet.

#### What Happens to Your Work Offline?

**Everything is saved locally.** When you create or edit Records offline, they're stored on your device. When you return to an area with internet, the app automatically syncs your changes to the cloud.

**You won't lose your work.** Even if the app crashes or your device dies, your offline changes are saved.

#### When You're Back Online

The app automatically syncs in the background. You don't need to do anything special. Your changes upload and others' changes download automatically.