Why a document from your computer will not link to a Tile

Why a document from your computer will not link to a Tile


If a document from your computer is not linking to a Symbaloo tile, it is likely due to one of the following reasons:


1. Symbaloo Does Not Support Local Files

Issue: Symbaloo tiles are designed to link to web URLs or online resources, not local files stored on your computer.

Solution: Upload the document to a cloud storage service (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive) and link the tile to the document’s shared URL.


2. Incorrect Link Format

Issue: If you’re trying to link directly to a local file path (e.g., C:\Documents\file.pdf), it won’t work because browsers cannot access your computer’s local file system through Symbaloo.

Solution: Host the file online, or use a service that allows external sharing, then copy and paste the correct shareable URL into the tile.


3. Permissions Issue

Issue: If you upload the document to a cloud service but the permissions aren’t set correctly, others won’t be able to access the link, or the tile may not work.

Solution: Ensure the document’s sharing settings allow access. For example:

In Google Drive, set the document to “Anyone with the link can view.”

In Dropbox, generate a shareable link and copy it into Symbaloo.


4. Browser Settings or Restrictions

Issue: Some browsers or security settings block access to local files for security reasons.

Solution: Always use a web-hosted URL rather than a local file path.



How to Link a Document via Symbaloo:

1. Upload the document to a cloud storage service.

2. Get a shareable link for the document.

3. Open Symbaloo and click ”+” (Add a Tile).

4. Paste the document’s shareable URL into the Link field.

5. Customize the tile’s name and appearance, then save.

Let me know if you’d like guidance on uploading your document to a specific cloud service!


If you are wondering why Symbaloo does not offer a platform to upload your files, this is because uploading files to a server can present the opportunity for malware to be uploaded. By not offering this service, we are trying to make Symbaloo safer for you to use!

Please feel free to reach out if you need extra help; we would be happy to assist you.
Email us at feedbackus@symbaloo.com, or feel free to submit a ticket.

Symbaloo Blog

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