1. Create a backup
Create a FolderStream backup on your old computer before you move, replace, or reinstall anything.
Your videos are separate from your FolderStream backup
FolderStream Backup & Restore protects supported FolderStream library and organisation information. It does not copy your original video files. Keep your own backup of important videos and make sure those files are available on the computer where you restore FolderStream.
Moving FolderStream to a new computer
Changing computers does not mean you need to organise your FolderStream library from scratch. Create a FolderStream backup on your old computer, restore it on the new one, then reconnect the folders or drives containing your original videos.
2. Make your videos available
Copy your original video files to the new computer, or connect the same external drive or storage that already contains them.
3. Install FolderStream
Install FolderStream on the new computer you want to use.
4. Restore the backup
Restore your FolderStream backup so the supported library setup returns.
5. Reconnect folders or drives
If folder paths or drive letters changed, reselect or reconnect the relevant video locations in FolderStream.
6. Check your setup
Confirm your supported library organisation has returned and that your original videos are available where FolderStream expects them.
What a FolderStream backup is for
Use FolderStream backups to protect supported FolderStream library information such as tags, playlists, favourites, custom titles, manually selected thumbnails, custom cover art, settings, and watch status.
Automatically generated thumbnail and preview caches are not included because they can make backup files extremely large. FolderStream rebuilds those caches from your original videos after a restore. Manually selected thumbnails and custom cover art are included.
Use your own storage backup routine for the original video files themselves.
Folder and drive changes after restoring
When you move to another computer, the storage path may not look exactly the same as before. External drives may receive a different drive letter, folders may live in a different location, and FolderStream may need you to point it back to the correct place.
If your backup restores but videos appear missing, first check whether the original files are present in File Explorer and whether the correct folder or drive is connected.
When this is useful
Moving to a new Windows PC
Keep your supported FolderStream setup without rebuilding it video by video.
Reinstalling Windows or FolderStream
Restore your supported organisation after a fresh install.
Recovering after a hardware change
Bring your FolderStream setup back after replacing or repairing a computer.
Privacy note
Backup files may describe your personal library structure. Store them somewhere you trust.