# Last Changed Inventory Field

## What

The **“Last Changed”** inventory field records when a device’s inventory data changed or when the device last reported inventory. It was added in FileWave 15.5.0 and is useful for reports, API sync jobs, and troubleshooting stale inventory.

## When/Why

The **“Last Changed”** field is useful in the following scenarios:

- **Inventory monitoring**: See when a device’s inventory data last changed.
- **Data synchronization**: Let external systems decide whether they need to pull updated FileWave inventory.
- **Change review**: Use the timestamp as a quick audit signal when inventory fields change.
- **API integration**: Include the timestamp in sync logic so integrations can avoid unnecessary inventory pulls.

## How

#### Understanding the “Last Changed” Field

- **Records Updates**: The “Last Changed” field automatically updates the timestamp when: 
    - Any custom or built-in field value is changed for a client.
    - The client reports new information to the inventory.
    - A new custom field is associated with or disassociated from the device.

#### Viewing the “Last Changed” Field

- **In FileWave Central**: 
    - Open **FileWave Central**.
    - Navigate to the <span class="s2">**Clients** tab.</span>
    - Select the device you wish to inspect.
    - Locate the **“Last Changed”** field within the device’s inventory details.

[![image.png](https://kb.filewave.com/uploads/images/gallery/2024-10/scaled-1680-/p0WgNuUkPNpQ6ROS-image.png)](https://kb.filewave.com/uploads/images/gallery/2024-10/p0WgNuUkPNpQ6ROS-image.png)

- **In FileWave Anywhere**: 
    - Log in to **FileWave Anywhere** through your web browser.
    - Go to the <span class="s2">**Devices** section.</span>
    - Click on the specific device to view its details.
    - Find the **“Last Changed”** field in the inventory information.

## [![image.png](https://kb.filewave.com/uploads/images/gallery/2024-10/scaled-1680-/CXzA6itHP4ZXPzVb-image.png)](https://kb.filewave.com/uploads/images/gallery/2024-10/CXzA6itHP4ZXPzVb-image.png)

#### Utilizing the “Last Changed” Field

- **Field Updates**: 
    - The field provides a precise timestamp, helping you determine the exact moment a change occurred.
    - Useful for troubleshooting and verifying when specific updates were made.
- **API Integration**: 
    - The “Last Changed” field is included in public inventory API responses.
    - Enables developers to: 
        - **Optimize data sync**: Check the “Last Changed” timestamp before pulling updated data.
        - **Improve automation timing**: Trigger scripts or integrations only when inventory has changed.

#### Important Notes

- **Custom Fields Association**: 
    - Associating or disassociating custom fields with a device updates the “Last Changed” timestamp.
    - Helps in tracking changes to custom data points specific to your organization’s needs.
- **Client Reporting**: 
    - Each client inventory report updates the “Last Changed” field.
    - If a device appears stale, compare this value with the device’s last check-in and inventory reporting behavior.

## Related Content

- [Working With APIs](https://kb.filewave.com/books/application-programming-interface-api/page/working-with-apis "Working With APIs")