Root is an After Effects plugin that locates used media, finds missing files, and packages projects into tidy, shareable folders, supporting multiple comps and external drives.
Developed by James Ronan.
About Root
Root is an asset organizer for After Effects created by James Ronan. It scans a project, gathers only the media actually used, finds any missing files, and packages everything into a clean, self‑contained project. The plugin can also build shareable asset folders and create separate project packages for multiple compositions. Assets may be sourced from downloads, the desktop, or any connected external drive. Root runs with After Effects 2025 and 2026. Version 1.1.3 adds case‑insensitive filename matching for relinking, validation to keep the local root inside the project hierarchy, and improved external‑drive location tagging.
Features
- Gathers the media a project uses and packages it into the project
- Finds missing media across your system
- Builds tidy, shareable asset folders
- Packages multiple comps into individual project packages
- Gathers assets from your downloads, desktop, or any external drive
- Compatible with After Effects 2026 and 2025
Best for
After Effects users who need to consolidate scattered assets, locate missing media, and create shareable project bundles.
Frequently asked questions
Which After Effects versions does Root support?
Root supports After Effects 2025 and 2026. Compatibility with other versions should be confirmed on the developer’s page before installation.
Is Root free to use?
The catalog lists Root as free, but the developer’s licensing terms may differ; check the official source for current details.
Can Root gather assets from external drives?
Yes, Root can gather assets from external drives as well as from downloads and the desktop, marking external items with location tags.
What changed in Root version 1.1.3?
Version 1.1.3 (June 8 2026) fixes an install bug, adds case‑insensitive filename matching, prevents the local root from being placed outside the project folder hierarchy, and improves external‑drive location tagging and error handling.
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Explore Root
View download and installation options.