Nextcloud

Nextcloud is the most widely used open-source platform for file sync, collaboration, and communication. Over 400,000 organisations — including federal agencies, universities, and SMEs — use Nextcloud for their daily work.

What Does Nextcloud Replace?

Core Features

File Management

• Synchronisation on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android
• Web interface for browser-based work
• Versioning: all file changes are saved
• Sharing: internally and with external partners with optional password protection

Collaboration

• ONLYOFFICE Docs: Office suite directly in Nextcloud — simultaneous document editing with a familiar interface
• Nextcloud Talk: Video conferencing, chat, screen sharing — directly in the browser, no installation required
• Nextcloud Office: Edit presentations, spreadsheets, and documents

Security

• End-to-end encryption for sensitive files
• Two-factor authentication (TOTP, hardware keys)
• Audit logs: all access and changes are recorded
• Permission management: granular control over read/write rights

Installation and Hosting

Self-Hosted at Hetzner (Recommended)

# Nextcloud with Docker Compose
docker compose up -d

We set up Nextcloud on a dedicated Hetzner server. Typical configuration for 20 users:

• Server: CX21 (2 vCPU, 4 GB RAM, 40 GB SSD): €5.83/month
• Storage: Hetzner Volume 200 GB: €9.20/month
• Backup: Hetzner Backup (20% of server price): €1.17/month
• Total: ~€16.20/month for 20 users

System Requirements

Migration from OneDrive

The migration process typically takes 2–4 hours for 100 GB of data:

1. Install and configure the Nextcloud server
2. Uninstall the OneDrive sync client on all devices (after syncing)
3. Transfer data via OneDrive export or direct sync
4. Install the Nextcloud desktop client
5. Create user accounts and assign data
6. Staff training (60–90 minutes)

Full overview of recommended tools: Open-Source Stack for SMEs →

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