SharePoint, OneDrive and Dropbox Alternative
Store, sync, co-edit and share files securely with Nextcloud on servers in Germany.
OneDrive, SharePoint, Dropbox and Google Drive are convenient, but all four belong to US corporations. Documents stored there are also subject to US law.
Nextcloud from Stuttgart offers storage, sync, sharing and browser office on servers in Germany or in your own data center. The software is open source and part of openDesk.
BARNICOM sets up Nextcloud, migrates your data and runs the platform. More on the complete switch: Microsoft 365 alternative.
Why companies look for alternatives
Access under US law
The US CLOUD Act requires US providers to hand over data to US authorities on request, even when it is stored in Europe (CLOUD Act explained).
Your documents with the provider
Contracts, HR files, design data and quotes are stored permanently on the servers of a US corporation.
Storage and licenses
Storage is tied to licenses, and extra space costs more. The provider sets prices and limits.
What replaces what
The key functions and European solutions for them. Which setup fits is something we work out together.
| Area | Microsoft | Dropbox | European alternatives | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| File storage and sync | OneDrive | Dropbox | Google Drive | Nextcloud FilesGermany |
| Team spaces and intranet | SharePoint | – | Google Sites | Nextcloud with group folders and wikiGermany |
| Sharing with externals | Share links | Share links | Share links | Share links with password and expiry dateGermany |
| Office in the browser | Office for the web | Paper | Docs | Nextcloud Office (Collabora Online)United Kingdom |
| Versions and trash | Version history | Version history | Version history | Versions and trash in NextcloudGermany |
Origin refers to the vendor’s headquarters. Nextcloud is open source and runs in German data centers or in your own data center.
How the switch works
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Assessment
What is in use, who uses it and what does it depend on? The result is a plan with effort and timeline.
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Structure
Folders, groups and permissions are planned before any data moves.
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Migration
Files and shares move over, and the sync clients are set up on all devices.
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Operations
We take care of updates, monitoring, backup and support, with a service level agreement on request.
When the alternative is not a fit
Switching does not make sense in every case. We point out limitations beforehand, for example with:
- SharePoint sites with many lists, workflows and Power Apps
- business applications that save directly to SharePoint
- files regularly edited with Microsoft Office macros
Frequently asked questions
What is Nextcloud?
Nextcloud is an open source platform for files and collaboration by Nextcloud GmbH in Stuttgart. It is used by companies and public authorities and is part of openDesk.
Are there apps for Windows, Mac and smartphones?
Yes. Nextcloud offers sync clients for Windows, macOS and Linux as well as apps for iOS and Android.
Can we keep working with Word and Excel?
Yes. Files sync as usual and open with Microsoft Office on the PC. In the browser you edit them with Nextcloud Office.
How much storage do we get?
As much as the server provides. Storage is not tied to licenses and can be expanded as needed.
What does the switch cost?
It depends on the number of users, data volume and the availability required. You receive a proposal after the assessment.
More alternatives for workplace and collaboration
Take your files back
We review your file storage and shares and plan the move to Nextcloud.