---
title: "Reconnect a recording archive"
description: "Restore access to externally stored recordings after reconnecting a drive or changing a server."
updated: "2026-09-21"
canonical: https://docs.recordstead.app/your-data/reconnect-recording-archive
---

# Reconnect a recording archive

If a drive or server was disconnected, your external recordings remain there.
The app also keeps their references. Reconnect the same archive to restore
access for meetings still in your library.

:::caution[An archive cannot restore deleted meetings]
Reconnect checks audio against meetings you still have. It does not import an
archive as a new meeting library or recover meetings deleted from Recordstead.
:::

## Restore access

1. Mount the drive or make the server reachable. If you moved the archive
   yourself, keep its file names and relative folder layout unchanged.
2. Open **Settings…** (⌘,) › **Storage** › **Recordings storage**, then click
   **Manage…** or **Choose…**.
3. If its connection is gone, use **Add destination…** to add one pointing at
   the archive's current location. Provide its current credentials and test it.
4. In the destination list, use the magnifying-glass button beside that
   connection to find recordings already stored there. Check the result.

Recordstead verifies content, not just file names or sizes. Matching files
restore access without creating duplicate meetings. A meeting may have more
than one confirmed external copy.

**Your result:** recordings that match meetings in your library are available
again. If a file is missing or fails verification, check the configured
location and the archive itself; a matching name cannot repair changed data.

To remove a connection without deleting its external files, use its trash
button and confirm **Disconnect**. If it was active, automatic moves pause
until you select another destination.