Managing recordings saved to an FTP server raises an important question: Can the files be automatically overwritten? This functionality plays a crucial role in managing storage space and ensuring old footage doesn’t pile up unnecessarily. In this guide, we'll explain how FTP overwrite works and how to configure it.
Applies to: All the Reolink cameras that support FTP
The answer is YES.
Note: Reolink NVRs and Reolink Home Hub series do not support FTP file overwriting.
1. Understanding the FTP Overwrite Options
When configuring FTP uploads on supported Reolink cameras, you may find an Overwrite File option with three choices:
- No/Off: Do not overwrite files. Each new upload creates a new file.
- Overwrite Single File: The camera will always overwrite the previous file with the new one. Only one image and/or video file will be kept on the server — the latest one. As soon as a new file is generated, the old one is immediately deleted and replaced.
- Alternately Overwrite Two Files: The system generates a temporary file of the old file while uploading the new one. Once the new file has been successfully uploaded, the old file is deleted.
This prevents data loss in case of upload failures. Though this method also retains only the latest file, it adds a layer of protection by ensuring the new file has fully uploaded before removing the previous one.
2. How to Configure FTP Overwrite in Reolink Client
Follow the steps below to enable or modify this feature:
Step 1. Launch Reolink Client and log in to your device, go to Device Settings> Surveillance > FTP page, and then click FTP Settings.
Step 2. Find the Overwrite File option, select your preferred setting (No/Off, Overwrite Single File, or Alternately Overwrite Two Files), and click Save.