Why Network Folder Scanning Still Matters
While cloud storage is increasingly popular, many UK businesses still rely on on-premises network shares for document storage. Whether it is a Windows file server, a NAS appliance, or a departmental shared drive, network folders remain a core part of many IT environments — particularly in regulated industries where data residency matters.
The Plustek eScan supports scanning directly to SMB/CIFS network shares alongside its cloud capabilities. This means you can use the same device to scan to SharePoint, OneDrive, and your local file server — choosing the right destination for each document from the touchscreen.
How It Works
The eScan connects to your office network via WiFi or Ethernet. In the device's configuration, you specify the network path to your shared folder (e.g., \\server\scans), along with the authentication credentials. You can set up multiple network folder destinations for different departments or document types.
When scanning, the user selects the network folder profile on the touchscreen and presses scan. The document is delivered directly to the shared folder in the configured format — no PC, no driver, no intermediate step. Files can be named automatically using date stamps, sequential numbering, or custom prefixes.
Ideal for Hybrid Environments
Many businesses operate hybrid environments where some documents go to SharePoint and others stay on local infrastructure. The eScan handles both seamlessly. You might configure profiles for:
- • Client-facing documents → SharePoint document library
- • Internal admin paperwork → departmental network share
- • Financial records → compliance archive on NAS
- • Quick scans → personal OneDrive folder
This flexibility makes the eScan suitable for organisations at any stage of their cloud migration journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What network protocols does the eScan support?
The eScan supports SMB/CIFS for Windows network shares, FTP and FTPS for file transfer, and direct cloud integration for SharePoint, OneDrive, and other Microsoft 365 services.
Can I scan to both network folders and SharePoint?
Yes. The eScan supports multiple scan destinations simultaneously. You can configure profiles for network folders, SharePoint, OneDrive, email, USB, and FTP — all on the same device.
Does it work with NAS devices?
Yes, any NAS device that supports SMB/CIFS file sharing (which covers virtually all business NAS appliances from Synology, QNAP, and others) can be configured as a scan destination.
Do I need to install software on the file server?
No. The eScan writes directly to the network share using standard SMB protocol. No server-side software or agent is required.
Can different users scan to different folders?
Yes. Each user profile on the eScan can have its own set of scan destinations and folder paths, so documents are filed correctly without manual intervention.
Need Scan-to-Folder for Your Office?
Talk to a UK specialist about setting up network folder scanning alongside Microsoft 365.
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