LinuxCommandLibrary

filebrowser

Manage files through a web interface

TLDR

Start a new server instance serving the current directory

$ filebrowser
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Start a new server instance serving a specific root directory
$ filebrowser [[-r|--root]] [path/to/directory]
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Start an instance with different host address (defaults to 127.0.0.1) and port (defaults to 8080)
$ filebrowser [[-a|--address]] [host] [[-p|--port]] [port] [[-r|--root]] [path/to/directory]
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Start an instance with a specified configuration file, storing the application database in a specific location (defaults to filebrowser.db on the current directory)
$ filebrowser [[-c|--config]] [path/to/file] [[-d|--database]] [path/to/database.db] [[-r|--root]] [path/to/directory]
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Set up a different default first-time account username and password (both default to admin) when setting up a new instance
$ filebrowser --username [username] --password [password] [[-r|--root]] [path/to/directory]
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Set up the maximum amount of image processors used when generating thumbnails (defaults to 4)
$ filebrowser --img-processors [4] [[-r|--root]] [path/to/directory]
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Disable image thumbnails as well as the Command Runner feature, limiting access for hosted script files from being executed inside the app
$ filebrowser --disable-exec --disable-thumbnails [[-r|--root]] [path/to/directory]
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Disable resizing of image previews as well as detecting file types by reading their headers
$ filebrowser --disable-preview-resize --disable-type-detection-by-header [[-r|--root]] [path/to/directory]
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SYNOPSIS

filebrowser [command] [flags]

PARAMETERS

config
    Path to the configuration file.

database
    Path to the database file.

root
    Root directory to serve.

address
    Address to listen on. (e.g., :8080)

port
    Port to listen on.

baseurl
    Base URL for the web interface.

cert
    Path to the SSL certificate file (HTTPS).

key
    Path to the SSL key file (HTTPS).

scope
    Restrict access to files within this directory.

version
    Print the version number and exit.

DESCRIPTION

While "filebrowser" isn't a standard Linux command found in most distributions' default installations, it typically refers to a lightweight web-based file manager. It provides a web interface to browse, upload, download, rename, delete, and edit files within a specified directory on the server. Its primary use case is offering a user-friendly alternative to command-line file management, particularly for remote access or when providing file access to users unfamiliar with the command line. Implementations vary, but generally, `filebrowser` instances are configured with user accounts and access permissions to control file access. It simplifies file operations without requiring SSH access or specialized client software. It's often used in environments like personal cloud storage, web server administration, and shared hosting. Many third-party implementations are available as open-source projects. Filebrowser is considered simple to deploy as it can be installed as a single executable.

CAVEATS

Security is paramount when using filebrowser. Always configure strong passwords and appropriate access controls. Exposing filebrowser to the public internet without proper security measures can lead to unauthorized access and data breaches. Also, ensure that the underlying file system permissions are properly set to prevent unintended data exposure.

The feature set heavily depends on the specific implementation.

<B>CONFIGURATION</B>

Filebrowser is highly configurable via command-line flags or a dedicated configuration file. This configuration allows customization of the listening address, port, root directory, authentication methods, and various other aspects of the server's behavior. Consult the documentation for your specific `filebrowser` implementation for details on available configuration options.

<B>SECURITY CONSIDERATIONS</B>

When deploying filebrowser, security should be a primary concern. It's crucial to restrict access to authorized users only through strong passwords and access controls. Enabling HTTPS is highly recommended to encrypt traffic between the client and server. Additionally, consider implementing rate limiting to prevent brute-force attacks. Regular security audits and updates are essential to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.

HISTORY

The history of filebrowser is fragmented because it's not a standard Linux command but rather a category of tools. Specific implementations have their own development histories. Many were created to fulfill the need for easy web-based file access, especially as web servers and personal cloud solutions became more common. Early versions were often simple CGI scripts, while modern implementations are typically written in languages like Go or Python, providing better performance and security. The usage expanded as the demand for user-friendly, remotely accessible file management solutions increased.

SEE ALSO

find(1), ls(1), scp(1), rsync(1)

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