> 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/storage/integrations.md).

# Storage integrations

Learn about storage integrations in Couchdrop

## Introduction

Couchdrop lets you connect your existing cloud, on-premises, and third-party storage platforms and use them as the foundation for file transfer and automation workflows.

Instead of moving files into a separate MFT storage system, Couchdrop works with the storage you already use. Your files remain in the storage platform controlled by your organization, while Couchdrop provides the secure file exchange layer on top.

This supports a **zero-custody file transfer** model. When using your own storage, Couchdrop transfers files directly to and from your connected storage location rather than becoming the permanent storage location for your files.

## How storage integrations work

Storage integrations connect Couchdrop to external storage platforms using the provider's supported connection methods, such as APIs, credentials, or secure protocols.

Once connected, each storage location appears in Couchdrop as a **Virtual Folder**. Virtual Folders provide a consistent filesystem experience across different storage platforms, allowing the same Couchdrop features to work regardless of where the files are stored.

For example, an SFTP user accessing a folder backed by SharePoint works the same way as an SFTP user accessing a folder backed by Amazon S3 or another connected storage platform.

## Connecting your storage platforms

{% hint style="warning" %}

#### Before you start

To create a storage connection, you will need:

* Access to Couchdrop with the appropriate permissions to add storage connections
* Credentials, API access, or connection details for the storage platform you want to connect
  {% endhint %}

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Add a new storage connection

From the Couchdrop web portal, select **Add Storage Integration**.

This creates a new Virtual Folder that will represent the connected storage location inside Couchdrop.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Choose the storage location

Configure the folder name and location where the storage integration will appear in Couchdrop.

Storage integrations can be placed alongside other folders and organized within the Couchdrop file system.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Configure the storage provider

Select the storage platform you want to connect and enter the required connection details.

Each storage provider has its own configuration requirements. See the specific integration guides for detailed setup instructions.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

***

## Popular storage integrations

Couchdrop supports more than 30 storage platforms. Use the guides below for the most common integrations.

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>SharePoint and OneDrive</strong></td><td>Connect with SharePoint</td><td><a href="/storage/integrations/sharepoint.md">SharePoint</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Azure Files</strong></td><td>Connect with Azure Files</td><td><a href="/storage/integrations/azure-files.md">Azure Files</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Amazon S3</strong></td><td>Connect with Amazon S3 or S3-compatible storage</td><td><a href="/storage/integrations/amazon-s3.md">Amazon S3</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>External SFTP</strong></td><td>Connect to external SFTP endpoints or servers </td><td><a href="/managed-file-transfer/sftp/connect-to-external-sftp-servers-and-endpoints.md">Connect to external SFTP servers and endpoints</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Google Drive</strong></td><td>Connect to Google Drive</td><td><a href="/storage/integrations/google-workspace.md">Google Workspace</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Box</strong></td><td>Connect to Box.com</td><td><a href="/storage/integrations/box.md">Box</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

## Frequently asked questions

<details>

<summary>Do I need to move my files into Couchdrop?</summary>

No. Most customers connect their existing cloud or on-premises storage and use Couchdrop as the secure file transfer layer.

With connected storage, files remain in the storage platform controlled by your organization. Couchdrop provides access, transfer, and workflow capabilities without requiring you to migrate your data.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Does Couchdrop store copies of my files?</summary>

No. When using your own connected storage, Couchdrop uses a zero-custody file transfer model. Files remain in your connected storage location and are transferred directly to and from that location.

Couchdrop Hosted Storage is different because Couchdrop provides and manages the storage location.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can I connect local or on-premises file systems?</summary>

Yes. Couchdrop can connect to local file systems and on-premises storage using the Couchdrop Agent.

The Agent allows Couchdrop to securely access files stored within your network while keeping the storage location under your control.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can I connect multiple storage platforms?</summary>

Yes. You can connect multiple storage platforms in the same Couchdrop account.

Each storage connection appears as its own Virtual Folder, allowing you to manage different storage environments through the same Couchdrop interface.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Will users know where files are actually stored?</summary>

No. Couchdrop uses Virtual Folders to provide a consistent filesystem experience regardless of the underlying storage platform.

An SFTP user, web portal user, or workflow can interact with folders without needing direct access to the underlying storage system.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can I use storage integrations with Automations and transfer features?</summary>

Yes. Connected storage can be used with Couchdrop features including SFTP, FTP, AS2, Mailboxes, Upload Links, Webhooks, and Automations.

</details>