Backing Up and Restoring UniFi OS

Regular backups protect your configuration, device adoption state, and network design.

Automatic backups

1. Go to Settings → System → Backups.
2. Enable scheduled backups (daily is recommended for active sites).
3. Set retention — keep at least 7–30 days depending on change frequency.
4. Store copies off the controller (download periodically or sync to secure storage).

Manual backup

• Use Download backup before major changes: VLAN redesign, firmware upgrades, or bulk device moves.
• Name files with the date and site name so restores are easy to find.

Restore workflow

1. Deploy or access a controller with the same major UniFi OS version when possible.
2. Upload the backup file under Restore or during initial setup.
3. Wait for the restore to complete — do not power-cycle mid-restore.
4. Verify devices reconnect and WiFi/network settings match expectations.

Tips

• Test a restore in a lab or maintenance window at least once — an untested backup is a hope, not a plan.
• Document admin passwords separately; backups may not recover external secrets you stored elsewhere.
• Before restore on a hosted controller, contact i2unifi support if you need help replacing the server instance.

What backups include

• Network and WiFi configuration
• Device adoption records (for the same controller identity)
• User/admin settings on the controller

Backups do not replace documenting ISP credentials, VPN keys, or third-party integrations stored outside UniFi.