Exploring Nextcloud

Exploring Nextcloud

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This page gives you an overview of the core features available in your Nextcloud deployment so you can get the most out of the platform.

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Prerequisites

• Nextcloud is configured and you can log in — see Configuring-Nextcloud.

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The Main Interface

After logging in, you land on the Files app — the central hub for managing files and folders.

The top navigation bar provides access to all installed apps:

Icon / App	Description
Files	Upload, download, share, and manage files and folders
Photos	Browse and organize photos and videos
Talk	Audio/video calls and team messaging
Calendar	Personal and shared calendars with CalDAV support
Contacts	Address book with CardDAV support
Activity	Feed of recent events (uploads, shares, comments)
Settings	User preferences, security settings, connected devices

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File Management

Upload Files

• Drag and drop files directly into the browser window, or
• Click the + button in the toolbar and select Upload file.

Create Files and Folders

Click the + button and choose New folder, New text document, or New spreadsheet (if Collabora Online is installed).

Share Files and Folders

1. Hover over a file or folder and click the Share icon.
2. Choose to share with:
   • Internal users or groups — type a username or group name.
   • Public link — generates a shareable URL with optional password protection and expiry date.

Sync with Desktop and Mobile Clients

Install the Nextcloud desktop or mobile client to keep your files synchronized:

• Nextcloud Desktop Client (Windows, macOS, Linux)
• Nextcloud iOS App
• Nextcloud Android App

Configure the client with:

• Server URL: https://cloud.example.com
• Username / Password: your Nextcloud credentials

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WebDAV Access

Nextcloud supports WebDAV for file access from any compatible client or script:

https://cloud.example.com/remote.php/dav/files/USERNAME/

Replace USERNAME with your Nextcloud username.

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Key Settings

Access Settings (top-right user menu) to:

• Change your password and profile picture.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for enhanced security.
• View and revoke active sessions.
• Generate App passwords for use with desktop/mobile clients or API integrations.

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Administrator Overview

Administrators can access additional settings under Settings > Administration:

Setting	Purpose
Overview	System health, warnings, and version info
Users	Create and manage users and groups
Apps	Install, update, and disable apps
Basic settings	Email, background jobs, log level
Sharing	Global share permissions and defaults
Security	Password policy, brute-force protection, 2FA enforcement
Logging	View and download application logs

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Next Steps

Next	Page
Load sample data for testing	Loading-Sample-Data
Manage user accounts	Managing-Users
Install and manage apps	Managing-Apps