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Sam Miller
Participant
Sep 28, 2026 5:35 PM UTC
Answered

How can I quickly find linked images that are missing or outdated in Illustrator?

I work with Illustrator files as part of my content and packaging-related work (Link removed by moderator). Some projects contain a large number of linked images, and when files are shared between different computers, it can become difficult to know which images are missing or whether a linked image has been updated.

Is there a reliable way to check all linked images in a document at once and identify:

  • Missing links

  • Links that have been modified

  • The file location of each linked image

  • Images that have been embedded instead of linked

Is there a recommended workflow in Illustrator for managing linked images in larger projects without having to check each image individually?

I’m particularly interested in a workflow that would make it easier to hand off Illustrator files between designers while keeping all linked assets organized.

    Bill Silbert
    Bill SilbertCorrect answer
    Community Expert
    Sep 28, 2026 6:10 PM UTC

    As Ton Frederiks has suggested the Links Panel and Package feature will do the functions that you need, You can learn more about the Links Panel at: https://helpx.adobe.com/illustrator/desktop/add-and-import-files/manage-linked-and-embedded-files/links-panel-overview.html. You can get info about the Package feature at: https://helpx.adobe.com/illustrator/using/collect-assets-export-for-screens.html.

    2 replies

    Bill Silbert
    Community Expert
    Bill SilbertCommunity ExpertCorrect answer
    Community Expert
    Sep 28, 2026 6:10 PM UTC

    As Ton Frederiks has suggested the Links Panel and Package feature will do the functions that you need, You can learn more about the Links Panel at: https://helpx.adobe.com/illustrator/desktop/add-and-import-files/manage-linked-and-embedded-files/links-panel-overview.html. You can get info about the Package feature at: https://helpx.adobe.com/illustrator/using/collect-assets-export-for-screens.html.

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    Ton Frederiks
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    Sep 28, 2026 5:45 PM UTC

    The Links panel will show all of this.

    And the File > Package will collect them in a folder.

     

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