How can I automatically scan uploaded files for viruses on my IONOS-hosted Nextcloud?

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Hello everyone,

I’m using a Nextcloud instance hosted by IONOS, and I want to make sure that all uploaded files are automatically scanned for viruses or malware.

IONOS told me that their Premium Virus Protection can detect and deactivate malicious files, but it seems to apply mainly to emails or general webspace — not specifically to files uploaded to Nextcloud.

What I actually need are features like:

  • automatic virus/malware scanning when users upload files,

  • handling of infected files (block, delete, or quarantine),

  • regular virus signature updates,

  • and notifications in case a virus is found or a scan fails.

So my questions are:

  1. Does IONOS Nextcloud include any built-in functionality for scanning uploaded files?

  2. If not, is there a way to enable this feature (for example, through a plugin like ClamAV integration or another antivirus tool)?

  3. Are there any recommended methods or configurations to protect Nextcloud data from infected uploads in a hosted environment like IONOS?

Thank you very much for your help and suggestions!

2

Hi @Aio

The website for their Managed Nextcloud doesn’t mention anything about antivirus software, so we have to assume that it’s not included. It’s also unlikely that you’ll be able to install it yourself, as this would require the ClamAV daemon to be running on the underlying operating system. So even if you could install the Nextcloud app from the App Store, it wouldn’t help, since it needs to connect to that daemon in order to function.

I’d suggest asking IONOS directly and explicitly mentioning that you’re using their Managed Nextcloud, and which plan exactly. Alternatively, you may also be able to open a support ticket via their customer portal.

That said, I wouldn’t get my hopes up too much. ClamAV is quite resource-hungry, which is probably one of the main reasons they don’t offer it. But hey, asking doesn’t cost anything, unlike the additional resources and maintenance ClamAV would require. :wink:

3

If you have root access to the server, then you can install ClamAV, which can perform upload scanning, quarantine, and notifications.