By default, Sitecore stores media assets in binary format in the database. We just need to make sure 02 Sitecore settings (normally they’re in \App_Config\Sitecore.config) as-are via /sitecore/admin/ShowConfig.aspx:

• Media.UploadAsFiles = false
  • 
• Media.DisableFileMedia = false
  • 

However, it is NOT working as expected. Users will upload media as files rather than database records if they check Upload as files checkbox whilst they’re using “Upload files (advanced)” option which is shown below:

Per my search, I suppose that there is one more step to make Sitecore store media as database records completely: hide Upload as files checkbox.

SOLUTION: set value of Upload.UserSelectableDestination Sitecore setting to false (normally it’s in \App_Config\Sitecore.config)

REFERENCES

• Upload a file to the Media Library
• Storing Sitecore Media in the Database vs. the File System
• How to Remove Upload as Files Checkbox