The 2024 statement that ZimaOS did not support WebDAV or rsync is no longer a complete description of current ZimaOS. WebDAV is now available through the ZimaOS App Store and is documented in current cross-NAS sync guidance. Rsync also appears in the current developer documentation, although the dedicated rsync-clone page is still marked “Under Construction.”
That means the safest current answer is different for each protocol: use the supported WebDAV app when you need a file-access endpoint, and treat rsync as a more advanced workflow whose current documentation is less complete rather than assuming there is a polished one-click rsync server toggle.
What Changed Since the Original 2024 Thread?
In June 2024, an IceWhale reply said WebDAV/rsync was not supported, and the ZimaOS product manager said the feature request had been documented. Since then, ZimaOS has added an App Store WebDAV path and developer documentation that references rsync backup clones.
Old forum answers therefore need a version boundary. They are useful history, not current product capability.
How to Enable WebDAV on Current ZimaOS
The current ZimaOS WebDAV sync guide shows this workflow:
- Open the ZimaOS App Store.
- Search for and install the WebDAV app.
- Select the directory you want to expose.
- Set or verify credentials.
- Note the WebDAV port.
- Connect from the remote client using the ZimaOS address, port, and credentials.
Use WebDAV for the Right Job
WebDAV is useful when a client application or another NAS expects a standard remote filesystem-like protocol over HTTP. It can work for document access, sync tools, and some backup applications.
It is not automatically the fastest choice for large LAN transfers, and exposing WebDAV directly to the public internet requires careful TLS, authentication, and network security. Prefer a private remote network when accessing it away from home.
What Is the Current rsync Situation?
The ZimaOS developer overview now lists Rsync Backup Clones, and a dedicated ZimaOS rsync page exists. However, that dedicated page is currently marked “Under Construction.”
So it would be misleading to turn that page into a detailed official rsync server procedure that it does not yet contain.
When to Choose rsync Instead of WebDAV
Rsync is strongest for efficient file replication between Unix-like systems, especially when repeated copies should transfer only changed data. It is often used over SSH rather than as a browser-accessible file service.
Choose rsync when you control both endpoints and want scripted backups or mirrors. Choose WebDAV when the receiving application specifically supports WebDAV and you want a service accessible through standard WebDAV clients.
Do Not Install Random Host Packages to Add WebDAV
ZimaOS does not behave like a general Debian/Ubuntu server. If a tutorial tells you to run apt install apache2, davfs2, or another host package, that is not the preferred ZimaOS route.
The ZimaOS package guide explains the appliance-style system boundary.
Use Docker or App Store Services for Long-Running Protocols
A containerized service keeps dependencies separate from the protected OS and makes ports, credentials, volumes, and upgrades easier to reason about. That is why the current WebDAV path is a better fit than manually modifying the host.
The ZimaOS Docker guide provides the broader deployment model.
How to Secure WebDAV
- Use a strong unique password.
- Expose only the directory the client needs.
- Avoid direct public-port exposure when a private VPN/overlay can provide access.
- Use HTTPS/TLS through a trusted reverse-proxy design if WebDAV must cross untrusted networks.
- Test read/write/delete permissions with a non-critical folder first.
FAQ
Does ZimaOS support WebDAV now?
Yes. Current ZimaOS documentation shows installing a WebDAV app from the App Store and using it for cross-NAS synchronization.
Does ZimaOS have a one-click rsync server?
Current developer documentation references rsync backup clones, but the dedicated rsync guide is still under construction. Do not assume a complete GUI workflow from the old feature request.
Should I use WebDAV or SMB on my LAN?
For ordinary Windows/macOS LAN file sharing, SMB is usually the natural ZimaOS choice. Use WebDAV when a specific client or sync workflow requires it.
Can I install davfs2 with apt on ZimaOS?
Do not assume Debian package-manager instructions apply. Prefer supported apps, Docker, or documented ZimaOS extension mechanisms.
