Using the Attachment Connection Type

How to use an attachment connection type

An attachment connection allows your forms to store uploaded files—such as images, PDFs, or documents—in a secure, centralized location. This is especially useful when forms include photo capture, scanned documents, or file uploads that need to be saved for later access, reporting, or compliance. 

You can configure an attachment connection to save files in one of the following storage systems:

• Azure File Share – A cloud-based file storage option provided by Microsoft Azure. Ideal for organizations using cloud infrastructure or needing scalable, remote access to attachments.

• Windows File Share – A shared folder or drive on a Windows-based network. This option is typically used in on-premise environments where files need to be stored locally within the organization's network.

1. From the Configuration menu, select Data Connections.
2. Click + Connection to add a new connection. To view or edit an existing data connection, select the connection from the Connection Name list.
   
3. Enter a connection name and description for the attachment connection. This helps you identify the data connection if you connect to more than one database.
4. From the Connection Type field, select Attachment.
5. Select the type of storage you want to use from the Attachment Storage Type field:
   Select Azure File Share as the attachment storage type to connect the system to your Azure storage account. Complete the following fields:
   

   Account Name: Enter the username/storage account name for accessing your Azure File Share. You can find this in the Azure Portal under your storage account's Access Keys section.

   Account Key: Enter the password that gives permission to connect to the Azure File Share. In the Azure Portal, go to your storage account > Security > Networking > Access keys, then copy Key1 or Key2.

   Note: Keep this information secure and do not share it publicly.

   File Share: Enter the endpoint for the storage site where attachments using this connection are stored. This is the name you assigned when creating the file share in your Azure Storage account.

   Default Folder in Share: Enter the folder name for the attachments to be stored in using this connection.

   Select Windows File Share as the attachment storage type to share files with other users over a local network.

   Enter the folder name for the attachments to be stored in the Default Folder in Share field.

   Note: If you want to use more than one folder, you must create multiple connections for each folder.

   Files uploaded from a device initially appear with a temporary GUID-based name. Once the form is submitted, the proper naming convention is applied.

   Attachments that remain in this temporary state are not processed by automated services responsible for moving files. If you find older files still using GUID names, it is likely the associated form was deleted, and the attachments were left behind. These files can be deleted at your discretion.

6. Click Test Connection to ensure your settings are correct.
7. Click Save when you've completed your changes.