How to Manage Public Links

Public links allow you to share files or folders with anyone, even if they don’t have an OwlCloudHost account. You stay in full control of what others can do with your content, and you can disable a link at any time. This article explains how to create, manage, and secure public links effectively.

🌐 What Public Links Are

A public link is a shareable URL that gives access to a file or folder. Anyone with the link can open it, depending on the permissions you set. Public links are ideal for:

• Sharing files with clients

• Sending documents to friends or family

• Publishing resources for a group or audience

• Distributing content without requiring an account

You decide exactly what level of access the link provides.

🛠️ How to Create a Public Link

You can generate a public link for any file or folder.

Steps:

1. Open the file or folder menu

2. Select Share

3. Choose Create Public Link

4. Select the permissions you want

5. Copy the link and share it

The link becomes active immediately.

🔐 Public Link Permissions

You can control what people can do with your shared content:

• View only — They can see the file but cannot download or import it.

• View + Download — They can save a copy to their device.

• View + Download + Import — They can add the file to their own OwlCloudHost account.

• Password protection — Only people with the password can open the link (if supported by your plan).

• Expiration date — The link automatically stops working after a set date.

These settings help you share safely and intentionally.

⏳ Setting an Expiration Date

Expiration dates are useful when sharing:

• Time‑sensitive documents

• Temporary client files

• Event‑related materials

• Limited‑access resources

Once the expiration date passes, the link becomes inactive automatically.

🔑 Adding a Password to a Public Link

Password protection adds an extra layer of privacy. Only people with the password can open the link. This is ideal for:

• Sensitive documents

• Private media

• Business files

• Personal information

You can update or remove the password at any time.

🧹 How to Disable a Public Link

You can turn off a public link instantly.

Steps:

1. Open Share

2. Locate the public link

3. Select Disable Link

4. Save your changes

Once disabled, the link stops working immediately.

📊 Monitoring Public Link Activity

You can view basic activity for your public links, such as:

• When the link was last accessed

• How many times it was opened

• Whether downloads or imports occurred

This helps you keep track of how your shared content is being used.

🛡️ How OwlCloudHost Protects Public Links

Public links are secured through:

• Encrypted file delivery

• Secure, randomized URLs

• Permission‑based access

• Optional password protection

• Automatic blocking of suspicious link activity

You remain in full control at all times.

🧭 Why Managing Public Links Matters

Effective link management helps you:

• Share files safely

• Prevent unauthorized downloads

• Control how long content stays accessible

• Protect sensitive information

• Maintain ownership of your files

Public links are powerful, flexible, and fully under your control.