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UniFi - Replace HDD and SD Card Storage

You may need to replace a storage disk when upgrading to a larger storage capacity, or if your current disk has naturally degraded over time, as discussed in our article on Disk Health. UniFi OS makes this process incredibly simple.

Before Replacing a Disk

  1. Back up your UniFi Console.
  2. Obtain a compatible disk.
  3. Export any recordings you want to keep (all recordings on the disk will be lost).

How to Replace a Disk

All UniFi Consoles with removable disks can be opened and the disks swapped with ease.

  • Consoles with HDDs and SSDs (i.e., Dream Machines & Video Recorders): Simply press the disk tray to open it. Then take out and replace the disk in the same orientation.
  • Consoles with microSD cards (i.e., Dream Router & Dream Wall): Carefully pull the tray out of its slot, then replace the card in the same orientation.

CloudKey Gen2 Plus and Devices “Managed by Other”

The CloudKey Gen2 Plus is unique, because it operates entirely off its external storage. Replacing this disk will result in a new database. Any connected devices (i.e., Cameras & Access Points) will still be associated with the old database, and will appear as “Managed by Other.”

In this case, restoring from a backup will resync the devices with your CloudKey. If you did not make a backup before replacing the storage, you will need to factory reset and readopt your device(s).

Ensure the following when replacing a disk in your CK G2 Plus:

  • No security devices are connected to the security slot on the side.
  • Your CloudKey has been shut down from UniFi OS > Console Settings and is unplugged.
    • The HDD should not be removed or installed while the CK is powered on.

Replacing a Disk in an Array

The Network Video Recorder and Network Video Recorder Pro can maximize data protection by creating storage arrays across multiple disks. For more information, see Storage Protect and Data Redundancy

Remember:

  • Always replace a failed disk first before replacing an at-risk disk.
  • Replace one disk at a time, allowing storage to fully repair before replacing the next disk.
  • Repairing a disk takes significant work, and will impact overall performance.
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