Can Fallout 4 Be Uninstalled and Retain Save Game Data?

Can Fallout 4 Be Uninstalled And Retain Save Game data? Yes, Fallout 4 can be uninstalled, and your save game data can be retained, allowing you to pick up where you left off upon reinstallation; savewhere.net offers guidance to protect your progress, ensuring you don’t lose your valuable in-game achievements and customizations. By understanding how and where Fallout 4 stores its save files, you can safeguard your progress, and utilize external drives and cloud storage. This ensures a seamless experience even after uninstalling the game, maintaining your cherished Fallout 4 journey.

1. Understanding Fallout 4 Save Game Locations

Where does Fallout 4 store its save games? Understanding the default save locations is the first step to safeguarding your game progress.

Fallout 4 save games are typically stored in a specific directory on your computer, separate from the main game installation folder. Knowing these locations is crucial for backing up your saves before uninstalling the game. The default save locations are as follows:

Windows: C:Users[Your Username]DocumentsMy GamesFallout4Saves
Steam Cloud: Saves may also be stored in the Steam Cloud if you have enabled cloud syncing for Fallout 4.

Understanding where these files are located is paramount, as it ensures that even after you uninstall the game, your progress remains intact and ready to be reinstated when you reinstall.

1.1. Identifying Save Files

How do you recognize Fallout 4 save files? Recognizing the save files is essential for successfully backing them up.

Fallout 4 save files have specific file extensions and naming conventions that make them easy to identify. These files typically have the extensions .fos (save data) and .f4se (Fallout 4 Script Extender save data if you use F4SE). Each save file is named according to the character name, location, and date/time of the save, such as “CharacterName Location Date Time.fos.”

For example, a typical Fallout 4 save file might look like this:

Save1_Vault111_01-01-2077_22-00-00.fos
Save1_Vault111_01-01-2077_22-00-00.f4se

These files contain all the information about your character’s progress, including their level, skills, inventory, and the state of the game world. Make sure to back up both the .fos and .f4se files to ensure a complete save.

Alt text: File Explorer showing the Fallout 4 save game files, highlighting the .fos and .f4se extensions, located in the ‘Saves’ folder within ‘My Games’ directory.

1.2. Cloud Storage Considerations

Is relying on cloud storage alone sufficient for safeguarding your Fallout 4 saves? Cloud storage offers a convenient way to back up your save games, but there are some considerations to keep in mind.

Services like Steam Cloud can automatically synchronize your save files to the cloud, providing a backup in case of local data loss. However, relying solely on cloud storage may not always be sufficient due to potential issues like:

Synchronization Problems: Cloud syncing can sometimes fail or become corrupted, leading to lost or outdated saves.
Storage Limits: Cloud storage services often have limited storage space, which may be insufficient if you have numerous large save files.
Service Outages: Cloud services can experience outages, making your saves temporarily inaccessible.

To mitigate these risks, it’s best practice to supplement cloud storage with local backups on an external drive or another secure location. This ensures you have a reliable backup even if cloud services are unavailable or experience issues.

2. Step-by-Step Guide to Uninstalling Fallout 4 and Retaining Saves

How can I safely uninstall Fallout 4 while keeping my saves? Follow these steps to ensure your save games are safe before uninstalling Fallout 4.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to uninstalling Fallout 4 while ensuring your save games are retained:

Locate Your Save Files: Navigate to the save game directory as mentioned earlier.
Back Up Your Save Files: Copy all .fos and .f4se files to an external hard drive, USB drive, or another folder on your computer.
Uninstall Fallout 4: Use the Steam client (or whichever platform you used to install the game) to uninstall Fallout 4.
Verify Uninstallation: Ensure that the game folder is removed from your Steam library directory to confirm successful uninstallation.

By following these steps, you can confidently uninstall Fallout 4, knowing that your save files are securely backed up and ready for future use. This ensures that you can easily resume your adventure whenever you reinstall the game.

2.1. Backing Up Save Files Manually

What is the best method for backing up Fallout 4 save files manually? Manually backing up your save files offers the most control and security.

Manual backups involve copying your save files to a separate location, such as an external hard drive or another folder on your computer. This method provides a reliable way to protect your saves in case of game uninstallation, system failure, or other unforeseen issues. To back up your save files manually:

Navigate to the Save Game Directory: Open File Explorer and go to the directory where Fallout 4 saves are stored (C:Users[Your Username]DocumentsMy GamesFallout4Saves).
Copy the Save Files: Select all the .fos and .f4se files in the folder.
Paste to Backup Location: Copy these files to your desired backup location, such as an external hard drive, USB drive, or another folder on your computer.

By performing these steps, you create a secure backup of your Fallout 4 saves, ensuring you can restore them whenever needed. This method is particularly useful for players who want to have complete control over their save game backups.

2.2. Using Steam Cloud for Save Backups

How reliable is Steam Cloud for backing up Fallout 4 save games? Steam Cloud can be a convenient option, but it’s important to understand its limitations.

Steam Cloud automatically synchronizes your save files to Valve’s servers, allowing you to access them from any computer where you are logged into Steam. To ensure that Steam Cloud is enabled for Fallout 4:

Open Steam Client: Launch the Steam application on your computer.
Go to Library: Click on “Library” to view your installed games.
Right-Click on Fallout 4: Right-click on Fallout 4 in your game list.
Select Properties: Choose “Properties” from the context menu.
Navigate to Updates: Click on the “Updates” tab.
Enable Steam Cloud Synchronization: Make sure the box next to “Enable Steam Cloud synchronization for Fallout 4” is checked.

While Steam Cloud offers a convenient way to back up your saves, it’s not foolproof. Synchronization issues, storage limits, and service outages can sometimes occur. It’s advisable to supplement Steam Cloud with manual backups for added security.

2.3. Uninstalling Fallout 4 via Steam

What is the proper way to uninstall Fallout 4 through Steam to ensure data safety? Uninstalling through Steam is straightforward, but follow these steps to avoid any issues.

To uninstall Fallout 4 via Steam:

Open Steam Client: Launch the Steam application on your computer.
Go to Library: Click on “Library” to view your installed games.
Right-Click on Fallout 4: Right-click on Fallout 4 in your game list.
Select Manage: Choose “Manage” from the context menu.
Click Uninstall: Select “Uninstall” to begin the uninstallation process.
Confirm Uninstallation: Follow the prompts to confirm the uninstallation.

After uninstalling, you can verify that the game has been successfully removed by checking your Steam library and ensuring that the game is no longer listed as installed. Additionally, check the Steam library directory to confirm that the game folder has been removed.

3. Restoring Save Games After Reinstalling Fallout 4

How do I get my save games back after reinstalling Fallout 4? Restoring your save games is simple once you’ve reinstalled the game.

After reinstalling Fallout 4, you can restore your save games by following these steps:

Reinstall Fallout 4: Use the Steam client (or whichever platform you used to install the game) to reinstall Fallout 4.
Locate the Save Game Directory: Navigate to the save game directory as mentioned earlier.
Copy Save Files: Copy the .fos and .f4se files from your backup location back to the save game directory.
Launch Fallout 4: Start the game, and your restored save games should appear in the load menu.

By following these steps, you can easily restore your progress and continue your Fallout 4 adventure from where you left off. This ensures a seamless experience and prevents the frustration of losing your hard-earned progress.

3.1. Transferring Saves to the Correct Directory

What is the correct directory to transfer my backed-up Fallout 4 saves to after reinstalling the game? Ensure you place your saves in the right location for the game to recognize them.

After reinstalling Fallout 4, the save game directory will be recreated. To transfer your backed-up saves to the correct directory:

Navigate to the Save Game Directory: Open File Explorer and go to the directory where Fallout 4 saves are stored (C:Users[Your Username]DocumentsMy GamesFallout4Saves).
Copy Save Files: Select all the .fos and .f4se files from your backup location.
Paste to Save Game Directory: Copy these files into the save game directory.

It’s crucial to ensure that the save files are placed in the correct directory; otherwise, the game won’t recognize them. Double-check the file paths and ensure that the save files are in the Saves folder within the Fallout4 directory.

3.2. Loading Restored Saves in Fallout 4

How do I load my restored save games in Fallout 4? Loading your restored saves is the final step to getting back into your game.

To load your restored save games in Fallout 4:

Launch Fallout 4: Start the game from the Steam client (or whichever platform you used to install the game).
Go to Load Menu: On the main menu, select the “Load” option.
Select Your Save Game: Your restored save games should appear in the list. Select the save game you want to load and click “Load.”

If your save games don’t appear, double-check that they are in the correct directory and that the file extensions are correct. Once you load the save game, you can continue your adventure from where you left off, enjoying all your progress and achievements.

Alt text: Fallout 4 game load menu displaying a list of available save games, highlighting the character name, location, and date/time of each save.

3.3. Addressing Potential Issues with Save Game Restoration

What should I do if my Fallout 4 saves don’t load after restoring them? Troubleshooting save game restoration issues can help you resolve common problems.

Sometimes, save games may not load correctly after restoring them. Here are some potential issues and solutions:

Incorrect Save Directory: Ensure that the save files are in the correct directory (C:Users[Your Username]DocumentsMy GamesFallout4Saves).
Corrupted Save Files: If the save files are corrupted, they may not load. Try restoring an older backup or using a save game editor to repair the files.
Missing Mods: If your save game relies on mods that are no longer installed, the game may crash or fail to load the save. Reinstall the necessary mods and try again.
Game Version Incompatibility: Ensure that your game version is compatible with the save game version. Update or downgrade the game as needed.

By addressing these potential issues, you can often resolve problems with save game restoration and get back to playing Fallout 4 without losing your progress. If problems persist, consulting the Fallout 4 community forums or support resources can provide additional assistance.

4. Managing Mods and Fallout 4 Save Games

How do mods impact Fallout 4 save game retention? Managing mods is crucial to ensure your saves are compatible and stable.

Mods can significantly enhance the Fallout 4 experience, but they can also impact save game compatibility and stability. When uninstalling and reinstalling Fallout 4, it’s essential to manage your mods properly to avoid issues.

4.1. Identifying Mod Dependencies

How do I determine which mods my Fallout 4 saves depend on? Knowing your mod dependencies can prevent save game issues after reinstalling the game.

Before uninstalling Fallout 4, identify the mods that your save games depend on. You can do this by:

Using a Mod Manager: Tools like Mod Organizer 2 or Nexus Mod Manager can list the mods you have installed and their dependencies.
Checking Load Order: Examine your load order to see which mods are active and essential for your save games.
Reviewing Mod Descriptions: Read the descriptions of your installed mods to understand their dependencies and potential conflicts.

Identifying mod dependencies ensures that you can reinstall the necessary mods after reinstalling Fallout 4, preventing crashes or other issues. This step is particularly important for players with heavily modded games.

4.2. Preserving Mod Load Order

Why is maintaining the correct mod load order essential for Fallout 4 save games? Preserving your mod load order is critical for maintaining a stable game.

The order in which mods are loaded can significantly impact game stability and compatibility. Preserving your mod load order ensures that mods are loaded in the correct sequence, preventing conflicts and crashes.

To preserve your mod load order:

Export Load Order: Use a mod manager to export your current load order to a file.
Document Load Order: Manually document your load order by taking screenshots or writing down the mod names in order.
Reinstall Mods in Correct Order: After reinstalling Fallout 4, reinstall your mods and restore the load order using your exported or documented list.

Maintaining the correct mod load order helps ensure that your save games load correctly and that your game remains stable. This step is crucial for players who use a large number of mods.

4.3. Reinstalling Mods After Reinstalling Fallout 4

What is the best way to reinstall mods after reinstalling Fallout 4? Reinstalling mods correctly is essential for a smooth gaming experience.

After reinstalling Fallout 4, reinstall your mods using a mod manager or manually. To reinstall mods correctly:

Use a Mod Manager: Tools like Mod Organizer 2 or Nexus Mod Manager can help you reinstall mods quickly and easily.
Install Mods in Correct Order: Follow your preserved load order to install the mods in the correct sequence.
Test After Each Installation: Test the game after installing each mod or small group of mods to ensure that they are working correctly and not causing conflicts.

Reinstalling mods correctly helps ensure that your game functions as expected and that your save games load without issues. This step is crucial for maintaining a stable and enjoyable gaming experience.

5. Advanced Tips for Managing Fallout 4 Save Games

Are there any advanced techniques for managing Fallout 4 save games to prevent data loss? Advanced techniques can provide additional protection and flexibility.

For advanced users, there are several techniques to further manage Fallout 4 save games and prevent data loss. These techniques provide additional protection and flexibility, ensuring that your progress is safe and secure.

5.1. Using Save Game Editors

What are the benefits of using a save game editor for Fallout 4? Save game editors offer advanced control over your game progress.

Save game editors allow you to modify various aspects of your save games, such as your character’s stats, inventory, and quest progress. These tools can be useful for:

Fixing Corrupted Saves: Save game editors can repair corrupted save files, allowing you to recover lost progress.
Adjusting Character Stats: You can use a save game editor to adjust your character’s stats or skills if you make a mistake or want to experiment with different builds.
Completing Quests: If you encounter a bug that prevents you from completing a quest, you can use a save game editor to manually advance the quest.

However, use save game editors with caution, as improper use can corrupt your save files or introduce instability into your game. Always back up your save files before using a save game editor.

5.2. Creating Multiple Save Game Backups

Why is it beneficial to have multiple backups of Fallout 4 save games? Having multiple backups ensures maximum protection against data loss.

Creating multiple backups of your save games provides redundancy and protection against data loss. If one backup becomes corrupted or inaccessible, you have other backups to rely on.

To create multiple backups:

Rotate Backups: Create a system for rotating your backups, such as keeping one backup from each week or month.
Use Different Storage Locations: Store your backups in different locations, such as an external hard drive, a USB drive, and a cloud storage service.
Label Backups Clearly: Label your backups with the date and time they were created, making it easy to identify the most recent and relevant backups.

Having multiple backups ensures that you can always recover your progress, even if one or more backups are lost or damaged. This technique is particularly useful for players who invest a lot of time in their Fallout 4 playthroughs.

5.3. Automating Save Game Backups

Are there tools or methods to automate the backup of Fallout 4 save games? Automating backups can save time and ensure your saves are always protected.

Automating save game backups can save time and ensure that your saves are regularly backed up without manual intervention. Several tools and methods can be used to automate backups:

Third-Party Backup Software: Use backup software like Acronis True Image or EaseUS Todo Backup to automatically back up your save game directory on a schedule.
Custom Scripts: Create a custom script using PowerShell or another scripting language to copy your save files to a backup location on a regular basis.
Cloud Storage Services: Use cloud storage services like Dropbox or Google Drive to automatically synchronize your save game directory to the cloud.

Automating save game backups ensures that your progress is always protected, even if you forget to back up your saves manually. This technique is particularly useful for players who want a hands-off approach to save game management.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Uninstalling and Reinstalling Fallout 4

What are the most common mistakes players make when uninstalling and reinstalling Fallout 4, and how can I avoid them? Avoiding common mistakes can prevent data loss and frustration.

When uninstalling and reinstalling Fallout 4, it’s easy to make mistakes that can lead to data loss or other issues. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

6.1. Forgetting to Back Up Save Files

Why is backing up save files the most critical step before uninstalling Fallout 4? Backing up your saves is the foundation of safe game management.

Forgetting to back up your save files is the most critical mistake to avoid when uninstalling Fallout 4. Without a backup, your progress will be lost, and you’ll have to start the game from scratch.

Always back up your save files before uninstalling Fallout 4, even if you think you don’t need them. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

6.2. Incorrectly Identifying Save Game Locations

How can I ensure I’m backing up the correct Fallout 4 save files? Double-checking your save locations can prevent you from losing important data.

Incorrectly identifying the save game locations can lead to backing up the wrong files or missing important save data. Double-check the save game directory before backing up your save files to ensure that you are capturing all the necessary files.

6.3. Overwriting Saves with Older Backups

Why is it important to manage and label your Fallout 4 save game backups carefully? Proper management prevents accidental data loss.

Overwriting saves with older backups can result in losing recent progress. Manage and label your backups carefully to avoid overwriting them with older versions. Use clear and descriptive names for your backups, and create a system for rotating your backups to ensure that you always have the most recent version available.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your Fallout 4 save games are safe and that you can continue your adventure without losing your progress.

7. Fallout 4 Save Game Compatibility Across Different Platforms

Are Fallout 4 save games transferable between different gaming platforms? Understanding cross-platform compatibility is essential for multi-platform gamers.

Understanding whether Fallout 4 save games are compatible across different gaming platforms is essential for players who own the game on multiple platforms.

7.1. PC to Console Save Transfers

Is it possible to transfer Fallout 4 save games from PC to consoles like PlayStation or Xbox? Save transfers between PC and consoles are generally restricted.

Transferring Fallout 4 save games from PC to consoles like PlayStation or Xbox is generally not possible due to platform restrictions and differences in file formats. Consoles typically use proprietary save game formats that are not compatible with PC save files.

However, some unofficial methods and tools may exist, but they are not officially supported and may violate the game’s terms of service. Use caution when attempting to transfer save games between PC and consoles.

7.2. Console to PC Save Transfers

Can I move my Fallout 4 save game from a console to my PC? Moving saves from consoles to PC is usually not supported.

Similarly, transferring Fallout 4 save games from consoles to PC is generally not possible due to platform restrictions and differences in file formats. Consoles typically use encrypted save game formats that are not compatible with PC save files.

Again, some unofficial methods and tools may exist, but they are not officially supported and may violate the game’s terms of service. Use caution when attempting to transfer save games between consoles and PC.

7.3. Cross-Platform Save Game Limitations

What are the general limitations when it comes to cross-platform save game transfers for Fallout 4? Understanding these limitations can help manage expectations.

The general limitations when it comes to cross-platform save game transfers for Fallout 4 include:

Platform Restrictions: Consoles and PC use different save game formats and have restrictions on transferring save files between platforms.
File Format Differences: Save game files may contain platform-specific data that is not compatible with other platforms.
DRM and Encryption: Consoles typically use DRM and encryption to protect save game files, preventing unauthorized access and modification.

Due to these limitations, cross-platform save game transfers are generally not supported for Fallout 4. Players who want to play the game on multiple platforms will typically need to start new save games on each platform.

8. Utilizing External Drives for Fallout 4 Save Game Backups

What are the benefits of using an external hard drive for backing up Fallout 4 save games? External drives provide a reliable and portable backup solution.

Using an external hard drive for backing up Fallout 4 save games offers several benefits:

8.1. Portability and Accessibility

How does using an external drive enhance the portability of my Fallout 4 save games? External drives allow you to easily move your saves between computers.

External drives are portable and can be easily connected to different computers, allowing you to transfer your save games between them. This is particularly useful if you have multiple computers or want to share your save games with friends.

8.2. Storage Capacity and Scalability

Why is an external hard drive a good choice for storing large Fallout 4 save game backups? External drives offer ample storage for your backups.

External hard drives offer large storage capacities, allowing you to back up numerous save games and other data. This is particularly useful for players who have heavily modded games with large save files.

8.3. Offline Backup Security

What security advantages does an external drive provide for backing up Fallout 4 save games? Offline backups protect against online threats.

External drives provide offline backup security, protecting your save games from online threats such as malware and ransomware. This is particularly important for players who are concerned about the security of their data.

9. Troubleshooting Common Fallout 4 Issues After Reinstallation

What common issues might arise after reinstalling Fallout 4, and how can I fix them? Troubleshooting can help you resolve post-reinstallation problems.

After reinstalling Fallout 4, you may encounter some common issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you resolve them:

9.1. Game Crashing on Startup

What steps can I take if Fallout 4 crashes immediately after reinstalling it? Basic troubleshooting can often resolve startup crashes.

If Fallout 4 crashes on startup, try the following:

Verify Game Files: Use the Steam client to verify the integrity of the game files.
Update Graphics Drivers: Update your graphics drivers to the latest version.
Disable Mods: Disable all mods and try launching the game. If the game launches successfully, re-enable the mods one by one to identify the culprit.
Run as Administrator: Run the game as an administrator.

9.2. Missing Textures or Models

What causes missing textures or models in Fallout 4 after reinstallation, and how can I fix it? Proper mod management is key to preventing texture issues.

If you experience missing textures or models, try the following:

Verify Game Files: Use the Steam client to verify the integrity of the game files.
Reinstall Mods: Reinstall your mods, ensuring that they are installed in the correct order.
Check Mod Compatibility: Check for compatibility issues between mods and resolve any conflicts.
Adjust Graphics Settings: Adjust your graphics settings to see if that resolves the issue.

9.3. Performance Issues

Why might Fallout 4 perform poorly after reinstallation, and what can I do to improve performance? Optimizing your settings can enhance game performance.

If you experience performance issues, try the following:

Adjust Graphics Settings: Lower your graphics settings to improve performance.
Update Graphics Drivers: Update your graphics drivers to the latest version.
Disable Background Applications: Disable unnecessary background applications to free up system resources.
Optimize Game Files: Use tools like the BethINI tool to optimize your game files.

10. Savewhere.net: Your Resource for Gaming and Saving

How can savewhere.net help me with more than just Fallout 4 save game management? savewhere.net offers a variety of resources for gamers and savers alike.

At savewhere.net, we understand the importance of both enjoying your gaming experiences and managing your finances wisely. That’s why we provide resources that cater to both aspects of your life, including:

Gaming Tips and Tricks: Find guides and tutorials to enhance your gaming experience, including how to manage your Fallout 4 save games effectively.
Budgeting Advice: Learn how to create a budget that allows you to enjoy your hobbies without breaking the bank. According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), effective budgeting can lead to significant savings over time.
Deals and Discounts: Discover the latest deals and discounts on games and gaming accessories, helping you save money while indulging in your favorite pastime.
Financial Planning: Get insights on how to plan for your financial future, ensuring you can afford your gaming hobby and achieve your financial goals. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) offers resources to help you make informed financial decisions.
Savewhere.net Community: Connect with other like-minded individuals to discover new strategies for enjoying the things you love while saving money.

By using savewhere.net, you can enjoy a balanced life where you can pursue your passions while also managing your finances responsibly. We provide the tools and information you need to make informed decisions and achieve your goals.

Alt text: A person using a laptop surrounded by other tech gadgets and financial planning tools, symbolizing savewhere.net’s comprehensive resources for tech enthusiasts and savers alike.

Ready to take control of your finances and gaming experience? Visit savewhere.net today to explore our wide range of resources and connect with a community of like-minded individuals. Discover tips, deals, and strategies that will help you save money and enjoy your favorite pastime without compromise.

Address: 100 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States. Phone: +1 (404) 656-2000. Website: savewhere.net.

FAQ: Fallout 4 Save Game Management

1. Can I play Fallout 4 on a different computer and keep my saves?

Yes, you can play Fallout 4 on a different computer and keep your saves by backing up your save files and transferring them to the new computer. Ensure that you also transfer any necessary mods and maintain the correct mod load order.

2. What happens if I uninstall Fallout 4 without backing up my saves?

If you uninstall Fallout 4 without backing up your saves, you will lose your progress, and you will have to start the game from scratch. Always back up your save files before uninstalling the game.

3. How often should I back up my Fallout 4 save games?

You should back up your Fallout 4 save games regularly, such as once a week or after each significant milestone in the game. This ensures that you always have a recent backup in case of data loss.

4. Are Fallout 4 save games compatible with different versions of the game?

Fallout 4 save games may not be compatible with different versions of the game, especially if significant changes have been made to the game engine or save game format. Ensure that your game version is compatible with your save games.

5. Can I use a save game editor to cheat in Fallout 4?

Yes, you can use a save game editor to cheat in Fallout 4, but this may diminish your enjoyment of the game and could potentially corrupt your save files. Use save game editors with caution and always back up your save files before using them.

6. What is the best mod manager for Fallout 4?

Popular mod managers for Fallout 4 include Mod Organizer 2 and Nexus Mod Manager. These tools can help you install, manage, and organize your mods, ensuring that they are loaded in the correct order and that your game remains stable.

7. How do I fix a corrupted Fallout 4 save game?

You can try to fix a corrupted Fallout 4 save game by using a save game editor to repair the file or by restoring an older backup. If neither of these methods works, you may have to start a new game.

8. Can I share my Fallout 4 save games with friends?

Yes, you can share your Fallout 4 save games with friends by backing up your save files and sending them to your friends. However, ensure that your friends have the necessary mods installed and that they maintain the correct mod load order.

9. What is the difference between a .fos and .f4se file in Fallout 4?

A .fos file contains the standard save data for Fallout 4, while a .f4se file contains additional save data for the Fallout 4 Script Extender (F4SE). Both files are necessary for a complete save game if you use F4SE.

10. Is it safe to download Fallout 4 save games from the internet?

Downloading Fallout 4 save games from the internet can be risky, as the save files may contain malware or other malicious content. Only download save games from trusted sources and always scan them with an antivirus program before using them.