Separate Protect settings migration from preservation of existing recordings

Verify configuration continuity and historical footage preservation separately before retiring the old recorder.

Source facts

UniFi’s migration guide separates a Cloud Gateway-to-NVR move from replacement or upgraded NVR workflows. For a gateway move, the guide explicitly says recordings do not migrate, directs users to export clips they need, and restores a recent settings backup after stopping Protect on the old console. NVR replacement procedures instead include a supported shutdown and disk-move sequence, warn that recordings may not migrate, and instruct users not to add extra new disks during the initial move.

Source: Ubiquiti Help Center — Migrating Cameras Between NVRs.

Applicability

Applies to the model-specific migration paths in UniFi’s current guide. Confirm the source and destination models before choosing a procedure; this article does not promise that every disk set is portable.

DSE recommendation

DSE recommends maintaining separate checklists for configuration continuity and footage preservation. Identify required historical clips and verify independent copies before stopping the old recorder. Record the exact migration path, approved backup, disk inventory, and rollback point. Do not combine a recorder replacement with an unplanned storage expansion. Keep the old system and required evidence under the agreed retention process until the owner accepts the new recorder and the preservation requirement has been satisfied.

Verification

After the approved migration, verify camera ownership, newly recorded playback, and restored administrative settings. Separately open the preserved historical clips from their intended destination. If the chosen supported path includes a disk move, confirm array readiness before adding disks. Document any missing history rather than interpreting restored camera names as proof of migrated recordings.

Official reference

Ubiquiti Help Center — Migrating Cameras Between NVRs. Reviewed October 15, 2026.