How to create your own private cloud with Nextcloud step by step

You ask yourself How to create your own private cloud with NextcloudIn an increasingly digital world, where personal and professional data moves through third-party servers, having a private solution under your control can make all the difference. Nextcloud It emerges as a powerful open-source alternative to popular services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive. It not only allows you to store and sync your files, but also gives you freedom and autonomy over your information.

Create your own private cloud with Nextcloud It's easier than it seems and can be adapted to both beginners and more technical users. In this article, we'll break down all the details so you can set up your personal server, whether on an old computer, a VPS, or even using Docker containers, all step by step and with clear explanations.

What is Nextcloud and why should you consider it?

Nextcloud is a self-hosted cloud storage platform, which allows you to store, manage, and share files from any device. Unlike commercial solutions, you decide where your data is stored, what privacy policies apply, and who can access your content.

This tool offers many of the familiar features of traditional cloud services, but with one clear advantage: absolute control of security and privacy. Additionally, it's highly customizable and has an active developer community that continually contributes improvements, plugins, and documentation.

Among its most notable features we can find:

• Automatic synchronization of files between devices.
• Access from web, desktop and mobile apps.
• Secure file sharing through protected links.
• Granular permission settings and users.
• Integration with external services such as FTP, Amazon S3, Dropbox, etc.
• Advanced monitoring and administration of the cloud environment.

Before we dive in deeper, you might want to take a look at this explanatory article on What is meant by cloud storage? 

Options for setting up your private cloud with Nextcloud

There are several different paths to installing Nextcloud, from simple shared hosting environments to more technical setups using Docker or local infrastructure. Below, we explore the most popular and effective ones.

1. Use an old computer as a server

If you have a PC at home that you no longer use, you can recycle it as your private cloud. Nextcloud can be installed even on computers that are more than 8 years old, as long as they have an Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection and are in good working order.

You can choose to install a lightweight Linux distribution like Pop!_OS or Ubuntu Server, which will offer better performance and stability. Then, with a few commands, you can deploy Nextcloud:

• Install Nextcloud with: sudo snap install nextcloud
• Register your user: sudo nextcloud.manual-install usuario contraseña
• Set your IP as a trusted domain: sudo nextcloud.occ config:system:set trusted_domains 1 --value=192.168.x.x

With this basic setup, you can start using your cloud from another computer connected to the same network.

2. Use Docker with Nextcloud AIO

One of the most modern and managed ways to install Nextcloud is through its All-in-One (AIO) version, which simplifies installation in Docker containers. Ideal for intermediate or advanced users, but very efficient.

To complete this installation you need:

• A server running Linux (either physical, virtual or VPS).
• Docker and Docker Compose installed.
• A domain or subdomain and SSL certificate (Let's Encrypt free is a good option).
• NGINX or Traefik as reverse proxy.

The process consists of creating a docker-compose.yml custom, define the volumes for the data (ncdata) and backups (ncbackup), and configure the necessary fields in the environment (APACHE_PORT, NEXTCLOUD_DATADIR, etc.).

Next, you'll need to configure NGINX to redirect requests to the Nextcloud container, specifying your subdomain, internal port, and paths to your SSL certificates.

Initial configuration and commissioning

Once your container or server is running, access the administration interface from the browser by entering https://IP_DEL_SERVIDOR:8080 or the domain you've set up. From there, Nextcloud AIO will guide you through a setup wizard where you'll define:

• Subdomain for the cloud.
• Additional time zones and containers (ClamAV, Collabora, etc.).
• Backup path on your host system.

Upon completion, the platform will download all the necessary containers and automatically configure the services. You'll have access to the Nextcloud web interface, where you can log in with your initial administrator username and password.

From there, you can create new users and groups, install apps, adjust permissions, and customize the environment to your needs.

If you prefer an even simpler option, various providers such as Arsys offer the ability to deploy Nextcloud on cloud servers with just a few clicks.

This option is perfect if you don't want to configure the entire infrastructure yourself. Arsys, for example, integrates the application into its catalog and allows you to scale resources, use block storage, and maintain constant availability.

The main advantages of using cloud hosting for Nextcloud include:

• High availability and redundancy.
• Cost per actual use according to needs.
• Ability to flexibly scale storage.
• Technical support and intuitive dashboards for management.

This way you'll know how to create your own private cloud with Nextcloud.

Personalization, security, and additional applications

Once your private cloud is up and running, you can get even more out of it with the integrations and features Nextcloud offers. Some of these include:

• External storage: Adds Amazon S3, FTP, WebDAV, Dropbox, among others.
• Mobile and desktop applications: Automatically sync your folders and access them from any device.
• Collaborate Online: Edit Office documents directly from your browser.
• ClamAV Antivirus: Scan files uploaded to your cloud for added security.
• Real-time monitoring: Displays system usage, performance, and consumption statistics.

Additionally, access permissions can be configured in great detail. You can create users, assign them to groups, limit which folders they can view or edit, and even set automatic rules using workflows.

Setting up your own private cloud with Nextcloud is a great way to regain control of your data and enjoy a cloud experience on your terms. You don't need to invest a lot of money or have cutting-edge hardware.

From an old computer converted into a server to professional solutions on VPS or Docker containers, the possibilities are wide and scalable thanks to NextcloudWhether you have technical knowledge or prefer more automated solutions, Nextcloud adapts to you and grows with you. You set the limit. We hope you now know how to create your own private cloud with Nextcloud.