> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.pads4.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Connecting a Folder

The **Folder** provider type allows you to connect to a **specific folder** to retrieve and display its **file content**. You can include **all files** or filter them based on **extensions**. **Subfolders** can also be included if needed.

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## **Steps to Add/Modify a Folder Connection in PADS4**

### **1. Start the Data Provider Wizard**

* Open the **Data Provider Wizard** by following the instructions in **Adding a Data Provider** or **Editing a Data Provider**.
* Select **Folder** as the **provider type**.

### **2. Specify Folder Connection Settings**

* Choose one of the following **source options**:
  * **Content Library:** Uses a folder from the **PADS4 Content Library** (Recommended).
  * **Folder:** Uses a **folder outside** the content library.

* **Enter the Folder Path**:
  * If using **Content Library**, provide the **relative path**.
  * If using an **external folder**, provide the **absolute path** (e.g., `C:\MyFolder`).
  * Use the **Browse** button to locate the folder.

* **Include Subfolders** *(Optional)*
  * Enable this option to include files **from subfolders** of the selected folder.

* **Set File Filters**
  * Use **Search Extension Restriction** to **filter specific file types** (e.g., `.jpg`, `.png`, `.mp4`).

* **Sort Files**
  * Use **Sorting File List** settings to **define the sorting order**.

### **3. Finalize the Connection**

* Click **Next** to proceed.
* Complete the wizard as described in **Adding a Data Provider**.

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## **Best Practices**

* **Use the PADS4 Content Library**
  * Files in the **Content Library** are **automatically synchronized** across **all PADS4 systems**.
  * If you use an **external folder**, you must **manually distribute** the files across systems.

* **Avoid Shared Network Folders**
  * **Network traffic may increase** when using a **mapped drive** or **UNC path** (`\\server\folder`).
  * This can **slow down** the **Viewer performance** when retrieving file lists or loading content.

* **Sorting Rules**
  * **Folder-specific sorting** applies first.
  * **Generic sorting** (set in later wizard steps) **overrides folder sorting**.

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## **Important Considerations**

* **Data Server Access**
  * If using a **PADS4 Data Server**, ensure the **folder is accessible** from the **server's point of view**.
  * If **not using a Data Server**, each **PADS4 Designer and Viewer** must have **direct access** to the folder.

By following these steps, you can successfully **connect a folder** and retrieve its contents for use in **digital signage presentations**.