¶ How to access files and folders over the network
In HexOS, you can create folders through the deck, but you can’t add contents to the folders via the deck.
The folder contents are added, viewed and edited from another device over the network. This means folders are accessed using a computer, laptop or phone connected to the same network.
This guide will explain how to access a folder on your HexOS server from a variety of other devices.
Info: Some apps may require different methods to add or view data. In Immich, for example, you upload photos and videos via a web browser.
¶ Copying the address of a folder
- In the folders screen of your HexOS deck, click the folder you want to access
- Click the Browse button
Browse button
You will be given the folder IP address needed to connect to it from other devices on the same network. You can click the Copy button to copy a link and paste it following the instructions below.
Folder address with Copy button
You can choose Windows or Mac using the dropdown.
Windows or Mac dropdown
Changing the Windows/Mac setting doesn't modify the folder, it just provides instructions for the selected operating system.
¶ Accessing the folder from your device
Here are some examples of how to access the file from various devices. The specific method may vary a little depending on your operating system.
¶ On Mac
- Open Finder
- Click Go in the menu bar
- Click Connect to Server
- Paste the SMB link into the Server Address field
- Click the Connect button
¶ On Windows
- Open File Explorer
- On the left side there is a list of folders and locations, click This PC
This PC in File Explorer
- Right click for the menu
- Click Add a network location
Add a network location option
Follow the wizard through by clicking the Next button.
Network location wizard
Click the Next button on the Choose a custom network location step.
Custom network location step
Paste the folder address in and click the Next button.
Folder address field
You can optionally choose a display name. Click the Next button.
Display name field
Then click the Finish button.
Finish button
Your folder will now be accessible from your file browser.
If the folder is private you will be asked for a username and password before it will open.
Network credentials prompt
¶ On ChromeOS
Open the My Files app.
My Files app
- On the top right, click the menu button (three vertical dots)
- Click Services
- Click SMB File Share
SMB File Share menu option
- Then click a suggested share from the list or manually enter the URL using the format given in the Windows section "\\ipaddress\Folder-name"
- Fill out the password field if required
- Click Add
SMB share login dialogue
The folder will now show in the left-hand navigation on My Files
Share shortcut in My Files
¶ On Linux
This varies depending on your Linux distro. The URL required will likely be similar to the Mac one, with forward slashes (rather than Windows and ChromeOS with \ backslashes). The following example is from Fedora.
- Open your files app
- Click Network
- Paste in the folder address
Network address field in Files
- Fill in the username and password if needed
- Click Connect
Username and password prompt
You will now see the folder in your Networks section of your file manager and also as a shortcut at the bottom of the left-hand navigation of files
Folder shortcut in file manager
Sometimes the folder may show under Other locations
Other locations section
¶ Android
¶ Samsung Galaxy
- Open the My Files app
My Files app
App update prompt
Plus button in My Files
Network Drive option
Server selection list
Browse button
{.medium .framed}
</details>
3. The address will be just the numbers shown (highlighted in this example)
<details>
<summary> Highlighted server address </summary>
{.medium .framed}
</details>
- You can leave the port alone
- Username and password are optional but if you would like to use them then uncheck **Sign in anonymously**
Network drive details form
¶ Google Pixel
There isn't a native function on Pixel devices to access SMB network shares.
SMB network shares can still be accessed by installing third-party applications.
¶ iOS
- Open the Files app
Files app
Three-dot menu button
Connect to Server option
Browse button
{.medium .framed}
</details>
3. The address will be just the numbers shown (highlighted in this example)
<details>
<summary> Highlighted server address </summary>
{.medium .framed}
</details>
Server address entered
Guest or Registered User screen
Server in the Shared section
