How to Delete Recordings in the Swann Security App and Recorder
Need to delete security camera recordings from your Swann device?
This guide explains how to delete individual clips, remove all recordings, format your recorder, and manage both local and cloud recordings using the Swann Security app or your recorder’s interface.
Whether you are clearing storage, removing unwanted footage, or organizing recordings, this article covers the most common ways to delete Swann recordings safely and correctly.
Deleted recordings cannot be recovered.
Make sure you fully understand what you are deleting before proceeding.
DID YOU KNOW? Most Swann devices automatically overwrite old recordings by default. In most cases, you do not need to manually delete clips unless recording settings were changed.
Common Questions About Deleting Swann Recordings
- How do I delete recordings in the Swann Security app?
- Can I delete cloud recordings from Swann Security?
- How do I erase all recordings from my Swann recorder?
- Why can’t I delete local clips from my camera?
- Does deleting recordings free up storage space?
Before you proceed, choose the model number of your system:
Things to Prepare
Standalone Cameras (Except TrackCam)
What you need:
- The camera must be online
- Access to the Swann Security app
- Internet connection for cloud clip deletion
- A compatible cloud subscription if cloud uploads are enabled
Supported actions:
- Delete individual local clips via the app
- Delete individual cloud clips via the app
- Delete all local clips via the app
- Delete all cloud clips via the app
Note: Evo Cameras (model number starts with SWIFI-SE... i.e SWIFI-SE2KBC) requires Secure+ plan before it can upload local clips to the cloud.
Secure+ subscribers have 60 days of cloud storage, while Free plan ranges from 1 to 7 days of cloud storage depending on the model. Click here to learn more
TrackCam
What you need:
- The camera must be online
- Access to the Swann Security app
Supported actions:
- Delete individual local clips
- Delete all local clips
Note: TrackCam recordings do not upload to the cloud.
DVR, NVR, and AdvancedX™
What you need:
- A monitor connected to the recorder
- A USB mouse connected to the recorder
- Access to the Swann Security app
Supported actions:
- Delete individual cloud clips via the app
- Delete all local clips via the recorder’s interface
- Delete all cloud clips via the app
Note: Only select system can upload to the cloud. See this article to learn more
NVW Systems, MaxRanger4K™ Power Hub, and EliteX™
What you need:
- Internet connection
- Access to the Swann Security app
- A monitor and mouse if using the device UI
- A compatible cloud subscription for cloud uploads
Supported actions:
- Delete individual cloud clips via the app
- Delete all local clips via the app
- Delete all local clips via the device UI
- Delete all cloud clips via the app
MaxRanger4K™ Base Station
What you need:
- Internet connection
- Access to the Swann Security app
- A compatible cloud subscription for cloud uploads
Supported actions:
- Delete individual cloud clips via the app
- Delete all local clips via the app
- Delete all cloud clips via the app
Step-by-step Guide
Why Deleting Recordings Matters
Understanding how to manage recordings helps maintain organized storage and ensures your security system operates efficiently. While Swann devices typically overwrite older footage automatically, manually deleting clips may still be useful when removing sensitive footage or clearing storage after changing recording settings.
Related Swann Security Questions
What’s the difference between Cloud and Local (microSD) clips?
Cloud clips are stored in your Swann Security account; Local clips live on the device’s microSD card or hard drive.
Can I recover a deleted clip?
Once deleted, it can’t be restored. Only delete if you’re sure.
Why can’t I see my local clips?
The device must be awake/online/streaming and you should be able to view Live View first.
How do I free up space quickly?
Select multiple clips and delete in bulk. For local storage, you can also manage space by removing older files. Standalone cameras also overwrites oldest recordings by default; therefore you shouldn't worry about its storage getting full.
How long do Swann recordings stay stored?
Storage duration depends on your device settings, hard drive size, and cloud subscription plan.
Can I back up recordings before deleting them?
Yes. Important footage can be exported before removal.
Does deleting cloud clips affect local recordings?
No. Cloud and local recordings are managed separately
Summary & Next Steps
Deleting recordings in the Swann Security app or recorder is straightforward once you know which device type you have and what deletion options it supports. Always remember that deleted recordings cannot be recovered, and most Swann systems already overwrite old footage automatically.