# File Share

### File Share Server Data Connector

The File Share Server Data Connector enables Tricloud Nexus to integrate with traditional network file shares using the Samba Protocol (SMB), allowing Edge devices to read from or write to shared folders on Windows servers, NAS devices, or other compatible systems. This connector is ideal for automating file exchange with legacy applications, lab equipment, document archives, or enterprise IT systems - bridging OT and IT workflows securely at the Edge.

> **Note:**\
> This connector is commonly used for file-based integration [jobs](/management-portal/designer/assets/jobs.md) such as uploading production reports, retrieving recipe files, or exchanging batch documentation between the factory floor and central servers.

***

### Key Features

* **Edge-Based Operation:** Connects Edge devices directly to local or remote SMB/CIFS file shares, even if cloud connectivity is unavailable.
* **Flexible Compatibility:** Supports modern SMB protocol versions (e.g., SMB 2.0) and a variety of authentication methods.
* **Domain Support:** Can join Active Directory or workgroup-based shares as needed for enterprise security.
* **Direct Transport:** Uses direct TCP/IP for efficient, secure file transfer.

***

### Configuring the File Share Server Data Connector

**1. Add a New Connector**

* Select the **Area** node where you want to configure file share integration.
* Go to the **Data connectors** tab.
* Click **+ New data connector**, choose **File Share Server**, and enter a name (e.g., `FileShareServer`).

<figure><img src="/files/Eq1R6eO39YDKi6H7qKDr" alt="" width="563"><figcaption><p>Add a new Data Connector</p></figcaption></figure>

**2. Configure Connection Settings**

<figure><img src="/files/XScR4X5lllnJbiOIbsHl" alt="" width="372"><figcaption><p>Configuration of FileShare Connector</p></figcaption></figure>

* **Name:** Enter a descriptive name for your connector (e.g., `FileShareServer`).
* **Server Address:** IP address or DNS hostname of the file server (e.g., `123.10.10.156`).
* **File Share Name:** The name of the shared folder (e.g., `SharedDocuments`). You must enter a name as it appears on the network. Share names are generally **case-insensitive**. This is particularly true on Windows-based SMB servers.
* **Domain:** (Optional) Enter a valid domain (e.g., `company.local`) if required for authentication, otherwise leave blank for workgroup access.

  If you are connecting to a standalone server that is not part of a domain (it's in a workgroup), you typically do not need to specify the domain. In such cases, you would authenticate using local user accounts defined on the SMB server itself.

  * **Non domain joined file share server (Workgroup)** - Leave the domain input blank. Instead use the credentials of a locally created user account on the file share server to connect.
  * **Domain joined server (Active Directory Domain Environment)** - You must specify the name of the domain so the credentials used to connect can be verified by the AD domain. Example of domain: mycompany.com

**3. Authentication**

* **Username / Password:** Credentials for accessing the file share (e.g., `nexusclient`).
* **Protocol:** Select the SMB protocol version (e.g., `SMB 2.0`). Match this to your server’s configuration for best compatibility and security:
  * **SMB 1.0** - Older protocol supported by the following operating systems:\
    Windows XP\
    Windows Server 2003
  * **SMB 2.0** - Newver protocol supported by the following operating systems:\
    Windows 7\
    Windows 8\
    Windows 10\
    Windows 11\
    Windows Server 2008\
    Windows Server 2008R2\
    Windows Server 2012\
    Windows Server 2016\
    Windows Server 2019\
    Windows Server 2022
* **Transport Type:** Choose `Direct TCP IP` for most modern environments.

***

### Example File Share Data Connector Configuration

| Setting         | Example Value                                |
| --------------- | -------------------------------------------- |
| Name            | FileShareServer                              |
| Server Address  | 123.10.10.156                                |
| File Share Name | SharedDocuments                              |
| Domain          | (leave blank for workgroup) or mycompany.com |
| Username        | nexusclient                                  |
| Password        | ●●●●●●●●                                     |
| Protocol        | SMB 2.0                                      |
| Transport Type  | Direct TCP IP                                |

***

### Best Practices

* Use **strong credentials** and keep them updated for secure access.
* Match **protocol version** (e.g., SMB 2.0) to your server’s configuration - older servers may require SMB 1.0 (not recommended due to security risks).
* Specify the correct **domain** if your environment uses Active Directory; otherwise, use local or workgroup accounts.
* Use **clear connector names** to simplify troubleshooting and management.
* Validate access and file permissions with a test job before deploying in production.


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