✅ Best Practice: Use VPN When Outside Trusted Networks
If you're accessing Nextcloud from outside your home or office network (like on public Wi-Fi, mobile data, etc.), then:
- Use a VPN to connect to your private network securely first.
- Then access your Nextcloud server through the VPN.
This protects you by:
- Encrypting all your traffic.
- Hiding your Nextcloud IP address from the public internet.
- Preventing brute-force or port-scan attacks.
❗ If You Face the Internet Directly (No VPN):
If your Nextcloud is directly accessible on the internet (e.g., through a domain like cloud.yourdomain.com), make sure:
- 🔒 It uses HTTPS with a valid SSL certificate (e.g., via Let's Encrypt).
- 🔐 You have strong passwords and optionally 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication) enabled.
- 🚧 Use a firewall and limit access as much as possible.
- 🧱 Consider using Fail2Ban or similar tools to block repeated failed login attempts.
- 🕵️♂️ Monitor logs for suspicious access.
🏠 If You're Only Using Nextcloud on a Local Network:
If the server is only used within a LAN (home or office):
- VPN is not needed, but make sure it's not accidentally exposed to the internet.
- You can still enable HTTPS and strong authentication for local safety.
Summary:
| Scenario | Use VPN? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 📶 Public Wi-Fi or Mobile Access | ✅ Yes | Most secure option |
| 🌍 Exposed to Internet | ❌ Optional (but secure config needed) | Use HTTPS, firewall, 2FA |
| 🏠 Local Network Only | ❌ Not needed | Keep it blocked from the internet |
