Where Webex Saves Recordings: Location Guide
Webex saves recordings to the cloud by default, accessible via your Webex site, and also offers local recording options that save to your computer. This guide explains exactly where each type of recording is stored, how to find them, and how to change the default settings.
Cloud vs. Local Recordings
Webex offers two main recording types, each with a different storage location:
- Cloud recordings are stored on Cisco’s servers, linked to your Webex site. They are accessible from the Webex app or website under the “Recordings” tab. This is the default for most users.
- Local recordings are saved directly to your computer’s hard drive, typically in a folder like Documents\Webex Recordings (Windows) or ~/Documents/Webex Recordings (Mac). You must enable this option before starting a meeting.
Cloud recordings are convenient for sharing and storage, but local recordings give you direct file access. The choice depends on your needs for accessibility, storage space, and privacy.
How Cloud Recording Storage Works
When you record to the cloud, the file is processed and stored on Cisco’s servers. The exact location is tied to your Webex site’s data center region (e.g., EU, US, APAC). You don’t need to know the physical server—just the Webex site URL (like yoursite.webex.com).
To access cloud recordings:
- Log in to your Webex site via the web portal or the desktop app.
- Go to Recordings in the left sidebar.
- Find your recording; it will show the date, duration, and size.
- Click the download icon to save a copy, or share the link with others.
Recordings are typically available immediately after the meeting ends, but processing may take a few minutes for long meetings. The retention period is set by your administrator (often 90 days, but can be customized).
Local Recording File Location
If you choose local recording, the file is saved to your computer. The default folder is:
- Windows: C:\Users\[YourUsername]\Documents\Webex Recordings
- Mac: /Users/[YourUsername]/Documents/Webex Recordings
You can change this location in the Webex app settings: go to Settings > Recording > Local Recording and click Change to pick a new folder. The file is saved as an MP4 video (or ARF for older versions) and can be played with any standard media player.
Note: Local recordings are not automatically backed up. If you lose your computer, you lose the recording unless you manually copy it elsewhere.
How to Choose Where to Save
During a meeting, the recording button gives you a choice:
- If you click the Record button, it defaults to the cloud (if enabled by your admin).
- Click the dropdown arrow next to the button to select Record on this computer.
If you don’t see the local option, your administrator may have disabled it. Also, some meeting types (like large webinars) may only allow cloud recording.
For automatic local recording, you can set it as the default in your personal settings: Settings > Recording > Default recording location.
Common Problems & Solutions
Users often face these issues:
- Can’t find a cloud recording: Check if the recording is still within the retention period. If not, contact your admin. Also, ensure you’re logged into the correct Webex site.
- Local recording missing: Look in the default folder, but also check if you have a subfolder named after the meeting. If you changed the default, check that location.
- Recording failed: This can happen due to insufficient disk space (for local) or network issues (for cloud). Check your storage and internet connection.
- Can’t play the file: For local MP4 files, use a modern media player like VLC. For ARF files, you need the Webex Recording Player (available from Cisco).
Storage Costs and Limits
Cloud storage is not unlimited. Your Webex plan includes a certain amount of storage (e.g., 5GB per host, but varies by plan). Once you exceed it, you may need to delete old recordings or purchase additional storage. Check your plan’s details on the Webex website.
Local recordings use your computer’s hard drive, so the limit is your disk space. A one-hour meeting might be around 100-200 MB, depending on resolution and content.
Security and Privacy Considerations
Cloud recordings are encrypted in transit and at rest, but they are accessible to anyone with the link (if you share it) or to your site’s administrators. Be cautious when sharing sensitive content.
Local recordings are only on your device, but if your computer is compromised, the recording could be stolen. Always lock your device and consider encrypting your hard drive.
For compliance, your organization may have policies on recording retention. Check with your IT department.
Alternatives to Webex Recording
If you need more control, consider:
- Third-party screen recorders like OBS Studio (free) or Camtasia (paid) that record your screen and audio independently.
- Built-in OS tools like Xbox Game Bar (Windows) or QuickTime (Mac) for simple screen capture.
- Cloud storage services (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox) to manually upload local recordings for backup and sharing.
These give you more flexibility but require manual setup and may not capture meeting-specific features like chat or participant list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where are Webex recordings stored by default?
By default, recordings are saved to the cloud on your Webex site. You can access them via the Recordings tab in the Webex app or website.
Q: How do I change the local recording folder?
In the Webex desktop app, go to Settings > Recording > Local Recording, then click Change to select a new folder.
Q: How long are cloud recordings kept?
It depends on your administrator’s settings. The default is often 90 days, but it can be shorter or longer. Check with your IT admin.
Q: Can I record a Webex meeting without the host’s permission?
No, the host controls recording permissions. If you’re not the host, you can only record if the host enables it for participants.
Q: Why can’t I find my local recording?
First, check the default folder: Documents\Webex Recordings. If it’s not there, search your computer for the meeting name or file extension .mp4. Also, ensure you selected “Record on this computer” before starting.
Q: Do cloud recordings count against my storage quota?
Yes, cloud recordings count toward your Webex site’s storage limit. Once full, you must delete old recordings or upgrade your plan.
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