Save open files (session) in NetBeans

Question

I would like to save actually open files (tabs) and revert session (group of files) next time. Is there any options in NetBeans IDE 7.1.2? I know that NetBeans save automatically list of files that were opened when I quit the IDE. How to save opened files and switch between sessions?

Answer 1

You are looking for Project Groups. Take a look at the File > Project Group menu.

There you can create Project Groups that defines a list of opened projects. You can then switch from groups and the chosen projects will be opened/closed.

Netbeans saves the list of opened files per project so:

• if your groups do not share projects, you'll get the behaviour you want.
• if your groups share projects, the files opened in theses projects will follow you when switching between the groups.

<3 Netbeans

Answer 2

Try Tab Groups.

In Netbeans (at least in version 7.3.1), click: Window > Configure Window > New Document Tab Group

Now, open a new file and it should open in a separate window.

Then, you can toggle the Maximize Window / Restore Window buttons to switch between your windows / tab groups.

Restore Window Button

Maximize Window Button

This is a convenient way to switch between sets of files, although you technically aren't saving these sets as you asked in your question. It does remember these tab groups when you close and reopen Netbeans, though.