ReCellFileServer

Summary

ReCellFileServer is an app that changes an unused Android device into a file server.

Status

Live. Anyone can install it from Google Play.

Problem

• Many homes have unused smartphones. These devices still have storage space and network functions.
• Cloud storage services charge a monthly fee. They keep the user's files on the servers of another business.
• A home server or a NAS needs extra hardware and setup knowledge.

Solution

• The user installs the app and pushes Start server. The device becomes a file server immediately.
• The app supports FTP, SFTP, and WebDAV. SFTP operates on Android 11 and later.
• The user connects to the server with a standard client, for example FileZilla, or with a web browser.
• The user selects the folders to share. The server operates only on files in those folders.
• User accounts and permissions in the app control access.
• A foreground service and a status notification keep the server on. When the device restarts, the server starts automatically.
• The files stay on the user's device. The app does not send files to an external server.
• The app supports Korean and English.

Technology

Results

• The app is public on Google Play.
• The app keeps only the permissions that its core functions need. Unused location and media permissions were removed before release.
• A separate SaaS management tool will help users find their connection information from outside the home network. See ReCellFileServer management tool.