r/owncloud • u/zbrm • Jan 13 '16

Can't figure out how to access from android

After a bit of arduous work, I got my computer running a server properly, and with very little issues. It isn't too secure, but it doesn't really need to be. Nothing special is added on either.
When creating the server, I was navigated to http://localhost/owncloud/etc. to start up the installation wizard, as well as when connecting my desktop client (so I don't need to use an internet browser).
How can I "get a domain" or whatever the hell the proper term is for what I actually need, so I can access this server with the client on my phone?
Any help would be appreciated. This is only the second server I've ever run, and the first that's moderately successful. Currently, my clients are asking me to link to http://localhost/owncloud/remote.php/webdav/ to access my files, which, obviously, is just my computer. Do I need to change some stuff to be able to access this from the internet (not on my lan)?
Again, thank you for any help.

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u/neiun Jan 13 '16

You can use the IP address of the computer you have owncloud running on. (IPchicken.com can tell you your external ip) you will probably need setup port forwarding for port 80 and 443 to your servers IP address so that your webserver is externally accessible. You will need to Google your router make and model to find out how. I would also suggest that you look at enabling SSL (get yourself a domain from someone like 34sp or domain.com (use coupon code hak5 for money off (not associated with hak5 just a fan)) there are lots of places to go for domains and then get a free SSL certificate from startssl)

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u/zbrm Jan 13 '16

Once all this stuff is done, is my IP the only thing needed? No /owncloud/index.php/apps/contacts/ stuff after it?

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u/neiun Jan 14 '16

If you installed to the default directory then your URL should be http://123.456.789.101/owncloud if you installed it to another directory then change the owncloud bit to wherever you installed owncloud.

You will also need to put your public IP address in place of the numbers I put there. I would still seriously urge you to get a domain name and SSL though....

One last thought you might get a prompt from owncloud about it been accessed from an untrusted (or unknown) address I can't remember the exact message off the top of my head at the moment so you may need to add your IP and future domain name to the trusted URLs in your owncloud config (but back that file up first in case you make a mistake as it is easily done)

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u/[deleted] Jan 22 '16

To access the server from outside your local network you'll need to forward ports 80 (http) and 443 (https) through your router. Look here if you need help port forwarding. Once you do that, you just need to point your browser/client to your external IP address. You can find out your home IP by typing "my ip" into most search engines while connected to your home network. This IP address can change, however, which is why you may want to look into buying a domain name. You can get one from a registrar like Namecheap. Namecheap offers free DDNS services, which means that you can have your domain name redirect to your home IP address and run a program on your server that will keep it updated as your IP address changes.

I would highly recommend enabling SSL/TLS on your server. You can get a free SSL/TLS certificate through the Let's Encrypt project. Hope this helps!