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Forum Discussion

EmilJabo's avatar
EmilJabo
Helpful | Level 5
8 months ago

How can I share files with others, but allow them only to view the files and nothing else?

Dear all,

 

Can someone please explain if what I want to do is possible on DropBox?

 

I have a large folder containing many files and photos.

 

  • I want to invite friends who are DropBox account holders to be able to view the folder and its contents.
  • I do not want them to be able to edit, share, comment on, or more importantly download, any of the folder's contents. I simply want them to be able to view each file and nothing else.
  • I don't want them to have to be part of my/a family account.
  • I don't want them to have to upgrade to more storage space to be able to simply view my folder and its contents. Essentially, the person can remain as a basic free DropBox account holder.

Any help would be apprciated.

 

Thanks! 🙂

 

 

  • Hi there, EmilJabo, thanks for posting your question today!

     

    The best way to go about what you'd like to do is to create a "can view" link to that folder and share it with your recipients.

     

    There is a feature that would also allow you to disable downloads for the link, along with some other permissions, however, that would require a Dropbox Professional, Essentials, Standard, Advanced, Business, Business Plus, or Enterprise account.

     

    So, essentially, if you don't have one of the above plans, your recipients will have the ability to download files from the folder, but not edit them.

     

    I wanted to give you all the info, so I hope this helps and if you have any questions, feel free to ask!

  • Hannah's avatar
    Hannah
    Icon for Dropbox Staff rankDropbox Staff

    Hi there, EmilJabo, thanks for posting your question today!

     

    The best way to go about what you'd like to do is to create a "can view" link to that folder and share it with your recipients.

     

    There is a feature that would also allow you to disable downloads for the link, along with some other permissions, however, that would require a Dropbox Professional, Essentials, Standard, Advanced, Business, Business Plus, or Enterprise account.

     

    So, essentially, if you don't have one of the above plans, your recipients will have the ability to download files from the folder, but not edit them.

     

    I wanted to give you all the info, so I hope this helps and if you have any questions, feel free to ask!

    • EmilJabo's avatar
      EmilJabo
      Helpful | Level 5

      Hello Hannah,

       

      That is prescisely what I needed to know!

       

      Just ugraded to Dropbox Professional.

       

      Thank you for your advice!

       

      Take care. 🙂

      • Hannah's avatar
        Hannah
        Icon for Dropbox Staff rankDropbox Staff

        Happy to hear that, EmilJabo!

         

        If you need anything else, please let us know.

         

        Have a wonderful day!

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