.Mac like option for ubuntu users:

Recently, I have been looking for a way to store my files remotely. I've always taken a liking to Apple's .Mac online file storage. The problem is.. there is no such service for ubuntu users, unless you want to actually purchase a .Mac subscription... AND WHO WANTS TO ACTUALLY PAY FOR SOMETHING LIKE THAT? lol. Anyways. I have recently come across a free online file storage website, that allows you to upload files to through your browser. I was unsatisfied with this option, for the simple fact, that i wanted to actually have a mounted drive onto my computer. I know there may people saying; "why dont you just get a gmail account and set up a gmail drive?" The problem there is, is that you have to download software to get it to work. Im looking at a more easier alternative than having to install and configure software.

Ubuntu Dapper Drake 6.06 already comes with an option to connect to certain servers for instance: FTP (Public), FTP (Secure), etc. There is even a WebDav option which can be used for .Mac accounts.

I decided to see if I could proceed to use my Box.net account with the WebDav option so i could have a mounted drive on my desktop, so i could drag and drop files. So... here is my HowTo on how to set up a ".Ubuntu Drive":

Step 1: Go to: http://www.box.net and set up an account, either for for free (1gb file storage) or for $4.99 /Month (5gb file storage).

Step 2: Once you have set up the account, what you want to do, on the main Gnome Panel, you will go to "Places" and click "Connect to Server."

Step 3: Set the option for "Service Type" to "WebDav (HTTP)"

Step 4: In the text box for "Server:" type "www.box.net" (without quotations!)

Step 5: In the text box for "User Name:" type the email address that you use to log in to "www.box.net" so for example: "username@domain.com" (without quotations)

Step 6: In the text box for "Name to use for connection:" type any name that you want to give for your drive; for example is used "craig.ubuntu"

Step 7: You need to click "Connect" and a mounted drive icon will show up on your desktop.

Step 8: Click on the mounted drive icon that was just created on your desktop, this will bring a password dialog box. Type in the password that you use to log into www.box.net. once you have logged in, a new file manager window should show up and you should have total access to your free online storage.

sidenote*: you may need to download davfs2.. for some reason, i didn't need to download this, being that it may have been downloaded with other sources in my search for an online drive. if you have to do this, open up a terminal window and type:

# sudo apt-get install davfs2

have fun with this kids!