Connecting Devices
ErikrafT Drop provides multiple methods for connecting devices, each suited for different scenarios. This guide covers all available connection methods and best practices for successful device discovery.Connection Methods Overview
1. Local Network Discovery (Automatic)
- Best for: Devices on the same WiFi/network
- Setup: No configuration required
- Speed: Instant discovery
- Security: Local network only
2. Device Pairing (Persistent)
- Best for: Frequently used devices across different networks
- Setup: One-time pairing process
- Speed: Quick reconnection
- Security: Encrypted room secrets
3. QR Code Connection (Quick)
- Best for: Fast, temporary connections
- Setup: Scan QR code or enter 6-digit key
- Speed: Immediate connection
- Security: Temporary pairing keys
Local Network Discovery
Prerequisites
- Same Network: All devices must be connected to the same network
- Modern Browser: WebRTC-compatible browser required
- Internet Access: Initial server connection needed
Step-by-Step Process
1. Open ErikrafT Drop
Navigate to https://drop.erikraft.com/ on all devices2. Wait for Discovery
- Devices automatically appear after 10-30 seconds
- Look for device names in the main interface
- Each device shows a unique display name (e.g., “Blue Fox”, “Red Eagle”)
3. Verify Connection
- Connected devices show as active peers
- Hover over devices to see connection details
- Test with a small file transfer
Troubleshooting Local Discovery
Devices Not Appearing
Check Network Configuration:- Verify all devices are on the same WiFi network
- Check router settings for client isolation
- Disable VPN or proxy services
- Update to the latest browser version
- Clear browser cache and cookies
- Try a different browser
- Restart router if necessary
- Check firewall settings
- Test with a simple ping between devices
Slow Discovery
- Network Congestion: Reduce network traffic
- Router Performance: Restart if discovery is very slow
- Browser Performance: Close unnecessary tabs
Device Pairing
When to Use Pairing
- Cross-Network: Devices on different networks
- Frequent Use: Regularly connected devices
- Mobile Devices: Phones and tablets that move between networks
- Family Setup: Multiple family devices
Pairing Process
1. Initiate Pairing
On the first device:- Click the Pair Device button
- Wait for the pairing dialog to appear
- Note the 6-digit key and QR code
2. Connect Second Device
On the second device:- Click Pair Device button
- Choose one of two methods:
- Scan QR Code: Use camera to scan the QR code
- Enter Key: Type the 6-digit key manually
3. Confirm Pairing
- Both devices show pairing success
- Devices are saved to persistent storage
- Paired devices appear automatically in future sessions
QR Code Scanning
Camera Access
- Grant Permission: Allow camera access when prompted
- Position Camera: Hold device 6-12 inches from screen
- Lighting: Ensure good lighting for clear scanning
- Stability: Keep device steady during scanning
Manual Key Entry
If camera access is unavailable:- Note the Key: Write down the 6-digit key
- Enter Carefully: Type the key in the input field
- Validate: Ensure all 6 digits are correct
- Submit: Click submit or press Enter
Managing Paired Devices
View Paired Devices
- Click Edit Paired Devices button
- View all previously paired devices
- See device names and pairing dates
Device Options
- Auto-Accept: Toggle automatic file acceptance
- Rename: Change device display names
- Unpair: Remove device from paired list
Unpairing Devices
- Open Edit Paired Devices dialog
- Find the device to remove
- Click the Unpair button
- Confirm removal
QR Code Quick Connections
Temporary Sharing Scenarios
- Presentations: Audience members connect quickly
- Classrooms: Students connect to teacher’s device
- Meetings: Rapid file sharing during sessions
- Public Spaces: Quick connections in cafes or offices
QR Code Generation
Create QR Code
- Click Pair Device button
- QR code appears automatically
- 6-digit key displays below QR code
- QR code is valid for one connection
Share QR Code
- Display: Show QR code on screen
- Copy URL: Click QR code to copy pairing URL
- Share Link: Use browser’s share functionality
QR Code Scanning
Mobile Scanning
- Open ErikrafT Drop on mobile device
- Click Pair Device
- Grant camera permission
- Point camera at QR code
- Wait for automatic detection
Desktop Scanning
- Use phone camera to scan desktop QR code
- Or use desktop QR code scanner app
- Manual entry always available as fallback
Connection Best Practices
Network Optimization
WiFi Configuration
- 5GHz Preferred: Faster speeds and less interference
- Strong Signal: Ensure good signal strength
- Channel Selection: Use less congested channels
- Security: WPA2/WPA3 encryption recommended
Router Settings
- Disable Client Isolation: Allow device communication
- UPnP Enabled: Facilitate peer discovery
- DMZ Configuration: For advanced users only
- Port Forwarding: Not typically required
Browser Optimization
Recommended Browsers
- Chrome: Best WebRTC support and performance
- Firefox: Good alternative with full support
- Edge: Chromium-based, excellent compatibility
- Safari: Good support, some limitations
Browser Settings
- JavaScript Enabled: Required for functionality
- Cookies Allowed: For session persistence
- Camera Permission: For QR code scanning
- Notifications: Optional but recommended
Security Considerations
Network Security
- Trusted Networks: Only pair on trusted networks
- Public WiFi: Use with caution
- VPN Considerations: May affect local discovery
- Firewall Rules: Ensure WebRTC traffic allowed
Device Security
- Screen Lock: Protect devices when unattended
- Auto-Accept: Use only with trusted devices
- Regular Cleanup: Remove unused paired devices
- Software Updates: Keep browsers updated
Advanced Connection Scenarios
Cross-Platform Connections
Mobile to Desktop
- Local Network: Automatic discovery works best
- Different Networks: Use device pairing
- Quick Transfer: QR code for temporary sharing
Mixed Device Types
- iOS to Android: Full compatibility
- Windows to macOS: No compatibility issues
- Linux Support: Full functionality on modern distributions
Multiple Device Networks
Home Network Setup
- Main Computer: Primary file source
- Mobile Devices: Quick access to files
- Tablets: Media consumption devices
- Smart TV: Limited but possible support
Office Environment
- Work Computer: Primary work device
- Personal Phone: Quick file transfers
- Conference Room: Presentation sharing
- Guest Devices: Temporary access
Connection Troubleshooting
Common Connection Issues
Discovery Failures
Symptoms:- Devices don’t appear in list
- Long wait times for discovery
- Intermittent device visibility
- Restart all devices
- Check network connectivity
- Disable VPN/proxy services
- Try different browsers
Pairing Failures
Symptoms:- QR code won’t scan
- Invalid key error
- Pairing timeout
- Check lighting conditions
- Verify 6-digit key accuracy
- Regenerate QR code
- Use manual key entry
Connection Drops
Symptoms:- Devices disconnect randomly
- Transfer interruptions
- Connection instability
- Check network stability
- Move closer to router
- Reduce network congestion
- Restart network equipment
Performance Issues
Slow Transfers
- Network Speed: Test internet speed
- WiFi Signal: Improve signal strength
- Browser Performance: Close other applications
- File Size: Large files take longer naturally
High Latency
- Network Congestion: Reduce network load
- Router Quality: Consider upgrade if old
- Interference: Check for wireless interference
- Distance: Move closer to access point