FileBrowser Connection Problems on macOS

If FileBrowser is having trouble connecting to your Mac, it’s usually related to macOS file sharing settings, SMB configuration, or network permissions.

This guide walks through the most common issues and helps you get connected quickly.

Most problems can be resolved in a few minutes once the cause is identified.

Before you begin

Check these first — they solve a large number of connection issues:

• Your Mac and iPhone or iPad are on the same network
• File Sharing is enabled on your Mac
• SMB sharing is turned on in macOS
• Your Mac is awake and not in sleep mode
• FileBrowser has permission to access the local network on iOS

If everything above is correct and you still can’t connect, choose the issue that best matches what you’re seeing below.

• Connection Errors

If you tap to connect on a machine entry and an error message is displayed in red, select the error message from the list below.

• FileBrowser says “Can’t find server”
• Couldn't locate machine
• Connection timed out
• Socket timed out
• Connect failed: Connection refused
• NB session refused - not listening
• Unknown username or password

• Problems with the Share name list

Once FileBrowser is connected, tapping the machine entry again should show a list of Share names in the right-hand window.
If there is a problem with this list, select from the problems below.

• Mac shares appear empty.
• SMB share is visible but won’t open.

• Problems enumerating folders

After tapping a Share name, the files and folders for that Share should be listed.
If they're not shown, select from the problems below.

• Popup error "Access Denied".
• FileBrowser can connect but folders are missing.
• Files are listed that I don't normally see.

• Sharing folders

• Show me how to share a folder.
• Show me how to configure macOS Firewall.