Private files

In Moodle, each user has a private files area for uploading and managing a set of files.

The private files area is accessible via Navigation > My home > My profile > My private files or the My private files block. If the private files repository is enabled by a site admin, it is available as a source within the filepicker when selecting files to use in a course.

Private files management

To add a file to your private files area

1. On the Navigation menu, click My profile > My private files
2. Click "Manage my private files" button
3. The standard file picker Add-Create folder popup will appear
4. If desired, create or move to a folder
5. Click on the Add button
6. Browse for and select a file
7. Click the 'Save changes' button

Standard file add- create directory, showing 2 files

• Uploaded files may be downloaded, renamed, moved or deleted by clicking the icon next to the file. After making any changes, remember to click the 'Save changes' button.

Private files size limit

The size limit for each user's private files area is set by a site administrator in Settings > Site administration > Security > Site policies.

Preventing access to Private files

• To prevent all users having access to Private files, the administrator should disable the repository in Settings>Site administration>Plugins>Repositories>Manage repositories. and in Settings>Site administration>Users>Permissions>Define Roles edit the authenticated user role and set and set the capabilities 'moodle/user:manageownfiles' and 'repository/user:view' to prohibit.
• If only students are to be prevented from accessing private files (but teachers etc, allowed) then a new role should be made and assigned system wide. See FAQ 6 in Repositories FAQ for more information.

Private files capabilities

• Manage files in own private file area
• View user private files