You may need to replace a 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. Let’s walk through how easy it is to replace a disk.

Before Replacing a Disk

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

How to Replace a Disk

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

For Hosts that hold HDDs and SSDs (e.g., Dream Machines & Video Recorders), simply press the disk tray to pop it open.
For Hosts that hold microSD cards (e.g., Dream Router & Dream Wall), simply pull the tray out of its slot.

Cloud Key G2+ & Devices “Managed by Other”

The Cloud Key G2+ is unique, because it operates entirely off its external storage. Replacing it will result in a new database. Any connected devices (e.g., Cameras & Access Points) will still be associated with the old database, and appear as “Managed by Other.”

In this case, restoring from your previous backup will resync the devices with your Cloud Key. If you did not make a backup before replacing it, you will need to factory reset your devices and re-adopted them.

Ensure the following when replacing a disk in your CKG2+:

No security devices are connected to the security slot on the side.
Your Cloud Key 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 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.