---
title: "Ingest explained"
slug: "ingest-explained"
updated: 2026-10-21T21:07:49Z
published: 2026-10-21T21:07:49Z
canonical: "help.ipv.com/ingest-explained"
---

> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.ipv.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Ingest explained

This section will show you how to ingest (upload) your files into Curator.

Most ingest is done through **Curator Connect**, a standalone application available for both Windows and Mac.

Before you get started, check with your system administrator to make sure the [software is installed](/docs/installing-curator-connect) and ingest has been [set up for you](/docs/configuring-ingest-explained).

- If you’re using watchfolder ingest (Admins only), see this [guide](/docs/watchfolders-explained).
- If you’re ingesting through Curator for Adobe, follow this [guide](/docs/how-to-ingest-from-curator-for-adobe).

#### Ingest Destinations

During the ingest process, you’ll be able to determine where your file will be ingested. This includes predefined settings such as format, resolution, and metadata. You won’t need to configure these yourself - just select a destination from the list provided.

Each destination is preconfigured by your system administrator. The destination you select will:

- Determine what metadata you’ll be asked to provide,
- Be dependent on the type or genre of material you’re ingesting, and
- (Depending on the selected destination) Determine both where the file is stored and the format it’s processed into as an asset.