Unlocking Obsidian: A Guide to Syncing Your Notes with NextCloud on Linux

Obsidian has emerged as a powerful markdown-based knowledge management tool compatible with popular platforms including Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android. It allows users to take notes and organize their thoughts efficiently. However, one of its standout features, Obsidian Sync, comes at a cost, limiting users’ control over their file storage during synchronization.

If you’re an enthusiastic Linux user who appreciates Obsidian but prefers to manage your own syncing process, there’s a solution at hand. With the Remotely Sync community plugin, you can synchronize your notes across clients using NextCloud. This guide will walk you through the steps to set this up seamlessly.

Installing Obsidian on Linux: A Quick Guide

To get started with syncing, you must first ensure that Obsidian is installed on your Linux system. If you haven’t had the chance to set it up yet, simply follow these installation instructions, tailored to various Linux distributions.

For Ubuntu Users

Begin by opening a terminal window and download the necessary DEB package with the command below:

wget https://github.com/obsidianmd/obsidian-releases/releases/download/v1.3.7/obsidian_1.3.7_amd64.deb

After downloading, install it using:

sudo apt install ./obsidian_1.3.7_amd64.deb

For Debian Users

Similarly, download the DEB package with:

wget https://github.com/obsidianmd/obsidian-releases/releases/download/v1.3.7/obsidian_1.3.7_amd64.deb

Then install it via:

sudo dpkg -i obsidian_1.3.7_amd64.deb

For Arch Linux Users

For Arch Linux, you’ll use the following command to install Obsidian:

sudo pacman -S obsidian

For Fedora and OpenSUSE Users

The installation process for both Fedora and OpenSUSE involves using Flatpak.

You first need to ensure the Flatpak runtime is operational. If you’re unfamiliar with the setup, refer to our comprehensive Flatpak guide.

Once Flatpak is set up, you can add the Flathub repository with this command:

flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://dl.flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

Then, install Obsidian using:

flatpak install flathub md.obsidian.Obsidian

Setting Up Your NextCloud Server

To enable syncing between Obsidian and NextCloud, you need a functioning NextCloud server. If you haven’t created one yet, you can follow our guide on deploying NextCloud on either a Linux or Windows server.

Retrieving Your NextCloud WebDAV URL

Each NextCloud instance supplies users with a private WebDAV URL, essential for file management. To find your WebDAV link, log in to the NextCloud web interface, navigate to your files, go to “File settings,” and copy your WebDAV URL.

Installing the Remotely Sync Plugin in Obsidian

Obsidian does not offer native support for WebDAV access, so you’ll need to install the Remotely Save community plugin to facilitate this feature. Here’s how to do it:

1. Launch Obsidian and click the gear icon in the bottom-left corner to access settings.
2. Click on “Community plugins” and enable “Community Plugins.”
3. Click “Browse” and find the “Remotely Save” plugin to install it.

Once installed, don’t forget to activate it via the settings.

Syncing Obsidian Notes with NextCloud on Linux

Now, you’re ready to sync your notes. Open Obsidian settings, navigate to “Community Plugins,” and click the gear icon next to Remotely Save.

In the plugin settings, select “WebDAV” under “Choose a remote service” and paste your previously copied NextCloud WebDAV URL.

After entering your NextCloud credentials, you can configure the Remotely Save settings to enable automatic sync settings if desired. When you’re ready, simply click the refresh button in the left sidebar of Obsidian to synchronize your notes.

By following these straightforward steps, you’ll significantly enhance your Obsidian experience on Linux, allowing for a personalized syncing solution that keeps your notes organized and accessible. Whether you’re managing complex projects or just taking personal notes, utilizing these tools will optimize your workflow and efficiency.