> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.couchdrop.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.couchdrop.io/file-sharing/shared-links.md).

# Shared Links

Shared Links in Couchdrop provide a secure way to share files and folders with external users through a web link.

## Introduction

Shared Links let you securely share files and folders stored in Couchdrop-connected storage without giving recipients access to that storage.

The original file or folder stays in your existing storage location, such as SharePoint. There is no duplication, and recipients do not need to know where the content is stored.

Users access the file or folder through a Couchdrop Shared Link and do not need a Couchdrop account, a storage account, or guest access to the underlying platform.

You can add controls such as allowed recipients, passwords, expiry, and one-time use to restrict access.

## How to create a Shared Link

{% hint style="warning" %}

### Before you start

To create a Shared Link, you will need:

* Access to Couchdrop with the appropriate permissions
* An existing file or folder connection that you want to share
  {% endhint %}

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Choose a file or folder to share

From Couchdrop, click + Create, then select Create Shared Link.

Choose Share an Existing File or Folder and select the file or folder you want to share.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Configure access controls

Configure any access controls you need, including Allowed Receivers, password protection, One Time Use, and Expiry.

You can also allow unapproved users to request access to the link.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Share your link

Save the Shared Link, then copy the generated URL from Couchdrop.

Send the link to the intended recipient so they can access the shared file or folder.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

***

## Settings

Additional settings can be configured after a Shared Link has been created.

### General link settings

| Setting              | Description                                                                                           |
| -------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Shared link name** | Sets the internal name used to identify the Shared Link in Couchdrop. This is not externally visible. |
| **Path**             | Sets the file or folder made available through the Shared Link.                                       |

### Security options

Shared Links can be protected so that only the intended recipients can access the shared content.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Administrators can configure default security options for Shared Links created by users.
{% endhint %}

| Security option                   | How it works                                                                                                                            |
| --------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Allowed Receivers**             | Restricts access to approved email addresses. Users verify their email address when accessing the link.                                 |
| **Allow users to request access** | Allows someone who is not already approved to request access. Couchdrop creates an Approval Task for the Shared Link creator to review. |
| **Password protection**           | Requires a password before the Shared Link can be accessed.                                                                             |
| **One Time Use**                  | Limits the link to a single file download.                                                                                              |
| **Expiry**                        | Automatically prevents access after the configured expiry period.                                                                       |

### Shared Link Managers

Shared Link Managers control which Couchdrop users and groups can manage the link.

Use **Managers** to select the users or groups that should have management access.

***

## Frequently asked questions

<details>

<summary>Do recipients need a Couchdrop account?</summary>

No. Recipients access the shared file or folder through the generated web link.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can I restrict a Shared Link to specific people?</summary>

Yes. Add the permitted email addresses under **Allowed Receiver/Downloader**. Only listed addresses will be able to access the link.

You can also allow unapproved users to request access, which creates an Approval Task for the Shared Link creator.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can I password-protect a Shared Link?</summary>

Yes. Enable **Require Password** and configure a password for the link.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can a Shared Link expire?</summary>

Yes. You can configure a Shared Link to **Never Expire** or expire after a specified amount of time.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can I create a one-time download link?</summary>

Yes. Enable **One Time Use** to allow the Shared Link to be used only once to download a single file.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Are Shared Links encrypted and secure?</summary>

Yes. Shared Links are accessed over a TLS 1.3 web connection.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Is Shared Link activity audited?</summary>

Yes. Shared Link access is included in Couchdrop auditing.

The Shared Link creator can view events for the link, and administrators can view and manage the link.

Reporting can include:

* Files downloaded
* Downloader IP address
* Email address

</details>

<details>

<summary>Who can create Shared Links?</summary>

By default, administrators, owners, and managers can create Shared Links. Shared Links can also be enabled for external users.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can Shared Links be branded?</summary>

Yes. You can control the logo and title displayed on the download portal and configure the domain used for Shared Links.

</details>