Camera replacement helps you retain access to important footage when replacing cameras as part of regular upgrades or Return Merchandise Authorization (RMAs). This ensures that no valuable data is lost during the transition.
This feature does not change how you order new devices or Contact Support to initiate RMAs.
Before you replace a camera
You must initiate the replacement process before unplugging the existing camera to ensure footage is properly backed up and retained.
Successfully backed-up footage will be retained for the full duration of the device’s retention policy—either onboard or extended cloud retention, whichever is longer.
Regardless of this feature, deleting a device from Command will permanently remove all associated data, including onboard storage and any cloud backups.
Configuration
In Verkada Command, go to
All Products > 
Cameras.Select the camera you want to replace.
Select
Settings. Under Device, click Start Replacement.
Choose which footage to upload.
Select the video quality.
Set the upload schedule.
Note: We recommend selecting Always Upload to ensure all footage is backed up promptly.
Click Next.
Enter the verification code and click Done.
The camera will enter read-only mode, and no new footage will be recorded from that point onward.
Manage devices after backup
A banner will appear at the top of the camera's page when it is safe to disconnect the camera
.You will receive an email confirming it’s safe to unplug the camera once the backup is complete.
Footage is retained and can be accessed according to the camera’s retention policy, either onboard or extended cloud retention, whichever is longer.
You will receive an email confirming that it’s safe to delete the old device and its data from Command once all the footage has expired.
You can return RMA cameras to Verkada, but do not delete the device from Command, as this will erase all backed-up data.
What happens in read-only mode
In Read-only mode, no new footage will be recorded. Existing footage remains accessible, and camera settings can be viewed but not changed.
All existing footage (videos and images) is backed up to the cloud.
Footage is retained and can be accessed according to the camera’s retention policy, either onboard or extended cloud retention, whichever is longer.
Footage is not transferred to the new device. It remains tied to the original device for viewing.
Read-only mode cannot be reversed. Contact Verkada Support for assistance.
A new camera can be added without affecting license compliance.
Need more help? Contact Verkada Support.