Office of Information Technology (OIT) > NetFiles > Share Files > Set up a Drop Box
Set up a Drop Box
A NetFiles dropbox is a secure file storage area which serves as an alternative to emailing attachments. A dropbox allows identified users to write files to the dropbox folder, but prevents them from viewing (reading) the contents of the dropbox.
Create a dropbox folder and assign inheritable permissions
- Select New Folder from top toolbar
- Enter Folder Name: i.e., Dropbox. Click Finish
- Select the Dropbox folder
- Click Manage and Permissions
- Click Advanced Permissions
- Select the Read and Write boxes for Authenticated Users (or for the User/Group that needs access)
- Click Apply
- Click OK to confirm the changes
- Click Exit to return to the folder to test
Provide users with the dropbox URL
- Select the dropbox folder
- Select Manage then Summary
- Copy the URL from Intellilink URL: i.e., https://netfiles.umn.edu/xythoswfs/webui/_xy-8589522_1
- Paste the URL into a new message and send it to the users who need access to the dropbox
Important considerations: Allowing people to write to a folder may fill your space. Prevent this by setting a reasonable quota: click on the Manage icon next to the folder name, then click on the Storage Quota: link. Never allow unauthenticated users (the public) to read and write to the same folder. The potential for abuse is high and you are responsible for your own space.
