Share Files Easily with Ubuntu's Public Folder
Understanding the Public Folder in Ubuntu
Many Ubuntu users observe the presence of a Public folder within their home directory. It's important to note that this folder isn't automatically configured for sharing.
However, establishing file-sharing capabilities for easy access across your local network is a straightforward process.
The Original Purpose and Current Options
Initially, the Public folder was designed for use with the Personal File Sharing application. This tool is no longer a standard component of Ubuntu installations.
Users now have a choice: they can install the Personal File Sharing tool separately, or they can leverage Ubuntu's integrated file-sharing functionality.
Utilizing Ubuntu's Built-in File Sharing
Ubuntu provides native features that allow for convenient file sharing without the need for additional software installations.
This built-in method offers a simple way to make files accessible to other devices connected to the same network.
Consider exploring these options to determine the best approach for your file-sharing needs.
Samba File Sharing on Ubuntu
Ubuntu incorporates Samba as its native file-sharing solution, ensuring compatibility with Windows operating systems. This allows computers running Windows, connected to the same local network, to access folders you designate for sharing.
To initiate file sharing, whether it's the Public folder or any other directory, right-click the desired folder and choose "Properties." Within the properties window, you will locate a "Share" tab.
Selecting the share option will prompt you to install the necessary Samba software. Click the "Install service" button and proceed through the installation prompts, which will also require a restart of your desktop session.
Following the Samba installation, folder sharing becomes straightforward. You can then configure the sharing permissions to be either highly restrictive or broadly permissive, depending on your needs.
Enabling the "Allow others to create and delete files in this folder" and "Guest access" checkboxes grants network computers the ability to add files without requiring a password. After configuring your desired settings, click the "Create Share" button.
To view your available network shares, open Ubuntu’s file manager and select "Browse Network."
This will display all shared folders accessible on your local network.
Personal File Sharing Capabilities
The Personal File Sharing utility, also referred to as gnome-user-share, initially served as the primary function behind the Public folder’s creation. It leverages Apache to provide user-friendly file sharing via WebDAV, though compatibility with Windows operating systems is not supported.
Furthermore, this tool incorporates support for file sharing through Bluetooth technology. To begin utilizing it, installation of the necessary software packages is required.
sudo apt-get install gnome-user-share apache2.2-bin libapache2-mod-dnssd
Following the installation process, the Personal File Sharing application will become accessible through your Dash.
The Personal File Sharing application facilitates straightforward network sharing of the Public folder. It’s important to note that this functionality is limited to the Public folder and does not extend to other directories.
Security options allow you to determine when a password is required – it can be disabled entirely, requested only during file writing, or enforced for every access attempt to the share.
Additionally, the application enables simplified file sharing and reception within the Public folder via Bluetooth connections.
Accessing the Network pane within the Nautilus file browser will reveal all Public folders currently shared across the network.