davfs2

What davfs2 is

davfs2 is a free Linux file system driver that mounts a WebDAV resource so applications can work with it through the local file system. The project describes using it to reach documents from different locations, support a geographically distributed work group, or edit a website through WebDAV. Connections support SSL, proxies, HTTP Basic and Digest authentication, and client certificates. The driver runs as a userspace daemon and connects to Linux through FUSE; its manual also documents Coda support. davfs2 keeps local copies of files that are open, so local disk space must be sufficient. Non-root users need an /etc/fstab entry and membership in the davfs2 group to mount resources. The mount process requires root privileges before the daemon changes its user and group IDs. Mounts always use nosuid and nodev, and local ownership or permission changes are not sent to the WebDAV server. Installation requires the neon library and a kernel with Coda or FUSE support. It is licensed under GPL-3.0-or-later, and the project points users to its Savannah support tracker.

Who it suits

It suits Linux users who want WebDAV resources available through the local file system, including people working across locations or editing a website. Users should be prepared to meet its installation and mount requirements.

Limits

Open files are stored as local copies, so available disk space must cover them. Mounts always use nosuid and nodev, and local ownership or permission changes are not conveyed to the server.

Getting started

1. Install the neon library and ensure the kernel has Coda or FUSE support
2. Install davfs2 for Linux
3. Add an /etc/fstab entry and join the davfs2 group if mounting as a non-root user
4. Mount the WebDAV resource

Verdict

davfs2 provides a way to use WebDAV resources through Linux's file system interface, with support for several connection security and authentication options. Account for its local file copies, prerequisites, and mount restrictions before adopting it.