Question: local media compare to media folder and should I put template in Helper?

Configuration
1

Hello community,

I’m seeking clarification on two architectural points after a recent HA code overhaul:

  1. Media File Management: Could someone explain the fundamental differences between using the WWW directory versus the MEDIA directory for storing local media? I’m looking for guidance on which path aligns best with current best practices for security and access.
  2. Template Management: Is it recommended to migrate custom templates from my YAML configuration into an HA Helper? I’m trying to determine if a Helper is the intended mechanism for centralizing and managing these templates, or if I’m mistaken about its functionality.

Your expertise is appreciated.

2

Using the UI is personal preference and up to you. But you should migrate any legacy format templates to the new format (UI or YAML). See: Deprecation of legacy template entities in 2025.12

3

The only difference here that I know of is /media has a check box in the back-up integration that allows you to exclude it. I personally have a lot of stuff there I back-up elsewhere, and don’t want to back those up.

And Tom points out the reason to update your templates, because around June or July they will no longer work if not updated.