How to use Connect a Computer to install Dropbox

Connect a Computer is an optional way to install the desktop application. This feature allows you to:

Create a Dropbox account
Begin the account connection process on your iOS or Android device
Finish connecting an account using a QR code reader

Add a computer to your account:

Android

Open the Dropbox app.
Tap the menu icon.
Tap the gear icon.
Tap Connect a Computer.
The app will ask if you're near the computer—if you are, tap Yes.
Open a web browser on your computer, and navigate to dropbox.com/connect.
- You should see a QR code shaped like the Dropbox logo
Use the Dropbox mobile app to scan this QR code.
- The app will tell your computer's browser to begin downloading the Dropbox installer
Install the app.

iOS

Open the Dropbox app.
Tap the icon of a person at the bottom right.
If you connected a work and personal account, tap Personal.
Tap Connect a Computer.
The app will ask if you're near the computer—if you are, tap Yes.
Open a web browser on your computer, and navigate to dropbox.com/connect.
- You should see a QR code shaped like the Dropbox logo
Use the Dropbox mobile app to scan this QR code.
- The app will tell your computer's browser to begin downloading the Dropbox installer
Install the app.

What if I have trouble with the Connect a Computer feature? Do I have to use it?

If you have any trouble with Connect a Computer, or if you're not able to scan the QR code, you do not need to use it. You should be able to cancel out of the screen at any point and complete the install directly on your computer.

Note: If you do not currently have files in your account, you will see the Connect a Computer prompt on the Files tab on dropbox.com.

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