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Recommended Apps for Using Nextcloud
Learn which apps we recommend for using Nextcloud on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iPhone or iPad and accessing your files.
Introduction
If you use Nextcloud with your miHosting.com service, you can access your files from a browser, but you can also install apps on your computer, phone or tablet for a more convenient experience.
For most users, the simplest option is to use the official Nextcloud clients, which let you access files and keep selected folders synchronized between your devices and the server.
This guide explains which app we recommend for each type of device and which alternatives you can use.
Which app do we recommend for computers?
For Windows, macOS or Linux computers, we recommend Nextcloud Desktop Client, the official Nextcloud desktop client.
You can download it from the official Nextcloud website:
https://nextcloud.com/install/
After installation, enter your Nextcloud service address and sign in with your credentials.
[Suggested image: Nextcloud Desktop Client initial screen asking for the server address]
The desktop client lets you work with files from your operating system’s usual folders. When you change a file inside a synchronized folder, the client keeps those changes up to date in Nextcloud.
Which systems does it support?
The official desktop client is available for:
- Windows.
- macOS.
- Linux.
It is our recommended option if you use Nextcloud regularly from a computer.
Which app do we recommend for Android?
On Android phones and tablets, we recommend installing the official Nextcloud app.
You can find it through the official download page:
https://nextcloud.com/install/
The app lets you connect to your account and access your files from your phone or tablet. It is also useful for uploading files or photos from the device.
To set it up, you will normally need to:
- Install the Nextcloud app.
- Open it and choose the sign-in option.
- Enter your Nextcloud service address.
- Sign in with your username and password.
- Authorize access when Nextcloud asks you to.
[Suggested image: Nextcloud Android app sign-in screen]
Which app do we recommend for iPhone or iPad?
For iPhone and iPad devices, we likewise recommend the official Nextcloud for iOS app.
You can download it from:
https://nextcloud.com/install/
After installing it:
- Open the app.
- Enter your Nextcloud service address.
- Sign in with your credentials.
- Authorize the app’s connection to your account.
Once configured, you can view and manage your files from the mobile device.
[Suggested image: Nextcloud app configured on an iPhone showing the Files section]
Can I use Nextcloud without installing an app?
Yes. You can also use Nextcloud directly from a web browser.
This can be useful when:
- You are using a computer that is not yours.
- You only need to check or download a file occasionally.
- You do not want to keep folders synchronized on the device.
- You need features available through the web interface.
Simply open your Nextcloud service address and sign in with your credentials.
Can I connect through WebDAV?
Yes. Nextcloud supports WebDAV, a protocol that lets compatible applications and operating systems access files stored on a remote server.
For example, it lets you configure your Nextcloud space as a network location on certain computers.
The official Nextcloud documentation explains how to use WebDAV on Windows, macOS, Linux and mobile devices:
https://docs.nextcloud.com/server/stable/user_manual/en/files/access_webdav.html
For most users, we recommend starting with the official Nextcloud client, because it is usually easier to configure and use.
WebDAV can be a good alternative when you need remote file access without using the usual synchronization client.
Other apps that can be used with Nextcloud
Nextcloud can offer additional features beyond file storage. Depending on which apps and features are enabled in your service, you may also be able to work with calendars, contacts, email or other collaboration tools.
For example, the Nextcloud ecosystem includes solutions related to:
- Calendar, for managing events and appointments.
- Contacts, for maintaining an address book.
- Mail, as a client for external email accounts.
- Talk, for messaging and communication.
- Other apps available in the Nextcloud ecosystem.
The availability of these features depends on the specific server configuration, so they may not be enabled in every service.
Which option should I choose?
As a general recommendation:
| Device | Recommended option |
|---|---|
| Windows | Nextcloud Desktop Client |
| macOS | Nextcloud Desktop Client |
| Linux | Nextcloud Desktop Client |
| Android | Official Nextcloud app |
| iPhone or iPad | Official Nextcloud app |
| Any device with a browser | Web access |
| Computers or apps compatible with WebDAV | WebDAV |
If you use Nextcloud every day, installing the official app for your device is usually the most convenient option.
Useful tips
- Download apps from the official Nextcloud website or your device’s official stores.
- Avoid entering your Nextcloud credentials in apps from unknown sources.
- Keep your apps up to date.
- Before synchronizing folders with many files, check that the device has enough available space.
- If you change or delete a file inside a synchronized folder, the change may propagate to the server and other connected devices. Always check which folders you have synchronized.
- If you only need occasional access to your files, a web browser may be enough.
Common problems
The app cannot connect to Nextcloud
Check that you entered the service address correctly and that you can access it from a browser.
Also verify that the username and password are correct.
Files are not synchronized
Check that the Nextcloud client is open and connected, that you have an Internet connection and that the device has enough free space.
If the problem affects only one file, also check its name and whether the client displays an error message.
I cannot find a feature available in another Nextcloud installation
Nextcloud can be extended through different apps. The availability of features such as calendars, contacts, email or collaboration tools depends on the server configuration.
The fact that a feature exists in Nextcloud does not necessarily mean it is enabled in every service.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to install Nextcloud on all my devices?
No. You only need to use the app on devices where you want direct access or synchronization. On other devices, you can use a browser.
Can I use the same Nextcloud account on my computer and phone?
Yes. You can connect the same account from different devices and access the files available in your Nextcloud space.
Is the app better than WebDAV?
For most users, we recommend the official Nextcloud app. WebDAV is a useful alternative for certain programs, operating systems or workflows.
Does Nextcloud automatically back up my computer?
You should not treat synchronization as a replacement for a backup. Synchronization keeps files and changes aligned between devices, but a deletion or change may also be synchronized.
If you need to protect important information, you should also have an independent backup strategy.
Can I access Nextcloud from any computer?
Yes. If you have a browser and an Internet connection, you can access your Nextcloud service address and sign in without installing the desktop client.
Conclusion
To use Nextcloud from a computer, we recommend installing Nextcloud Desktop Client on Windows, macOS or Linux. For phones and tablets, the recommended option is the official Nextcloud app for Android or iOS.
You can also use a browser or WebDAV when you need an alternative way to connect.
If you have your storage service with miHosting.com and need help connecting a device or accessing your account, contact our support team so we can review the connection details with you.