What is netFiles?

NetFiles is a system for storing your files safely, securely, and in a place that is accessible from anywhere you have an Internet connection. It is useful for many things, including backing up your most critical documents and moving data from one computer to another. You can also use it to distribute larger files, rather than trying to email Inbox-crushing attachments to people.

How do I use netFiles?

You've already got an account, so no extra setup is necessary. Just go to https://netfiles.whitman.edu, log in with your regular Whitman username and password, and get started! We have some more information in our Quick Start Guide (pdf).

There are two basic ways to access your netFiles space:

• The " Web View" - Think of this as like email, but for your file-storage space. Just log in, and take a look at the built-in help system (there is a link in the top-left corner next to your name).
• The " Folders View" - This is a way to connect your own computer more directly to netFiles. Instead of having to interact with your storage space using your web browser, you can use your computer's native file-manager. This can be useful if you need to move a large number of files around. In some cases, you can also open documents directly from the netFiles server, rather than having to first download files to your local computer.

How much space do I have on netFiles?

By default, students have 200MB, staff members have 400MB, and faculty members have 500MB each. This quota includes all files in your home folder, including those in your trash. People needing more space for academic or administrative purposes may request a quota increase from Technology Services. When you're logged into netFiles, if you look at the bottom of the page, you can see a tidy summary of the files uploaded and how much space you have left.

Can I save files directly to netFiles instead of having to upload them?

That depends. netFiles Folders uses a protocol called "WebDAV," which is not supported by all programs. Microsoft Office products and new Adobe products are some of the programs that do work with netFiles. For the programs that don't work with netFiles, you must save a local copy and then upload it to netFiles using either the folder view or the web.

Can I upload entire folders at once?

Yes you can! You can either use the Advanced Upload function on netFiles web or use netFiles Folders. 

Can I use netFiles Folders on my personal computer?

Absolutely! For instructions, please visit the documentation for setting up your PC or your Mac.

Why does it say my account is full when I should have plenty of space available?

Usually, this happens because your trash is filling up your account. When you delete a file from your netFiles account, it goes into the netFiles trash. Any files in your trash still count against your size limit.

It is also possible to fill up your trash when using netFiles Folders without actually deleting any files. When you are working directly off of your netFiles account (using the folder view), netFiles puts backup copies of your files into the trash every time you save new changes. If you are working on a file and periodically press Save, you will have multiple older versions of that file in your trash. Although these can accumulate quickly, this should not deter you from saving often.

You should get in the habit of emptying your trash regularly, but first be sure that you have not accidentally deleted any files that you want to keep. To empty your trash in the web view, click on the "Empty Trash" link under the Utilities section on the left-hand frame. For instructions on emptying your trash in the folder view, see below.

How do I empty my trash using the folder view?

Believe it or not, all you have to do is delete the trash folder from your home folder. When netFiles needs the trash again, it will simply re-create the folder. You cannot delete the trash folder and another file or folder at the same time.

How do I share files with other people?

There are multiple ways of sharing files with people both on- and off-campus. Please visit our specific documentation on sharing.