Perfect setup and installation of ownCloud 9

Expandable

The apps integrated into ownCloud expand the functionality of the software. To activate them, log in as administrator and click at the top left of the window on the Files button. Then select the Apps entry in the submenu.

The apps appear in the vertical context menu that opens on the left side of the window. The apps are arranged in various subgroups. Clicking on the activate button found underneath each of the apps, incorporates the desired functionality into the system. A newly integrated app becomes available to all users once they log in again.

There is a search feature at the upper right of the main window which you can use to search for terms and character strings. Administrative functions like integrating additional apps or assigning storage space are reserved for the server administrator and are therefore not available in the client interface.

ownCloud also lets users work collaboratively. You can share files by clicking with the mouse on the Sharing symbol and entering the other users' names. In the Shared with you window, you will find content that other users have released to the intranet for you. It is also possible to share using a link.

ownCloud lets you assign certain rights to the recipient of data, thus making it possible for the recipient to perform additional editing tasks. After releasing one or more files, the shared icon will appear behind each. The view for the recipient is different. This user sees the shared files with the designation Shared with you .

Conclusion

ownCloud lets you create a private cloud and use professional data administration and editing tools. During testing, the breadth of functionality was impressive. The software is stable and intuitive to operate. There is no need to study boring documentation.

Nonetheless, improvements are urgently needed with respect to server installation. Apparently, testing has been insufficient since the release of version 9.0. As a result, a very buggy installation process blocks quick access to the local cloud, sometimes permanently.

The problems with updates also need urgent attention from the developers. Presently, each upgrade from an older version to the current version turns into an installation drama of unique proportions that extends across multiple releases. Other cloud projects are already doing significantly better in managing this process.

The bandwidth requirements for ownCloud are relatively high. With multiple active clients, older hardware can quickly become overwhelmed if you share large files like videos and films. However, casual users will find an excellent option for building a private cloud that protects against incursions.