Jetpack VideoPress hosts your videos on WordPress.com’s servers rather than your host’s server, which improves video performance. This article covers the recommended video file specifications and how to upload a video to VideoPress.
Before you upload a video, make sure your site is connected to WordPress.com. Each administrator must also connect their own WordPress.com account to use the VideoPress uploader.
If your account is not connected, the Connect to set up VideoPress screen appears at Jetpack → VideoPress instead of the uploader. Follow the steps in Getting Started with Jetpack VideoPress to connect your account.
Video file recommendations
VideoPress is compatible with most WordPress themes. For best results, use a theme that supports the Block Editor and prepare your video to match the specifications below.
| Setting | Recommendation |
| Resolution | 1920×1080 (1080p). |
| Maximum resolution | 3840×2160 (4K). Larger files are accepted, but 4K is the largest size the VideoPress player currently displays. |
| File size | Less than 5 GB. VideoPress does not support files larger than 5 GB. |
| Bit rate | 8 Mbps for 1080p30, 12 Mbps for 1080p60. Other values are accepted. |
| Length | Shorter than 3 hours. A video longer than three hours is only available at standard resolution (240p) after upload. |
| Audio | AAC, minimum 160 kbps. |
| Format and other settings | Use Fast Start, Web Optimized, or progressive download so playback can begin before the whole file downloads. |
If your source video does not meet these specifications, you can use a desktop tool such as HandBrake to convert it before you upload it to the Media Library. Many mobile apps can also compress videos on a mobile device. Converting or compressing a video can help resolve some upload errors.
Videos you upload to VideoPress are subject to WordPress.com’s content policies. The exclusions on this mature content page also apply to videos.
Add a video via the VideoPress dashboard
You can upload and manage videos from the VideoPress dashboard, which is available through the main Jetpack plugin (version 16.0 or later) or the standalone Jetpack VideoPress plugin. Once the plugin is active, the VideoPress dashboard appears in your WP Admin. From there, you can add videos to a new post, convert local Media Library videos to VideoPress, and complete other upload workflows described in the dashboard article.
Add a video via the VideoPress Block
You can also upload a video with the VideoPress Block in the Block Editor. For the full steps, see Add a VideoPress video using the Block Editor.
Modify the video settings
After you upload a video, you can adjust its playback and display options. For details, see Configure your videos via the Jetpack VideoPress Plugin.
VideoPress user roles
Video upload permissions depend on a user’s role, and each user must be connected to Jetpack with their own WordPress.com account. The permissions for each role are as follows:
- Jetpack-connected users with the Administrator role can upload videos to a VideoPress-powered site. All administrators can view every uploaded video in the site’s Media Library, regardless of which administrator uploaded it.
- Jetpack-connected users with the Editor or Author role can upload videos to VideoPress using the VideoPress Block.
Migrate videos from another platform
VideoPress does not include automated migration tools. You cannot import videos in bulk from platforms such as Vimeo, YouTube, or other video hosts.
To move an existing video library to VideoPress, upload each video file individually using the VideoPress dashboard or the VideoPress Block. VideoPress subscriptions do not include migration services or expert assistance for bulk transfers. If you need to download your videos from another platform before uploading, check that platform’s export or download options.
Still need help?
Please contact support. We’re happy to advise.
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