Browser application & local file system access

access-control, browser, filesystems, html, permissions

Solution

Google Gears.

it lets you write Javascript applications with a much bigger platform support than the usual browser, and go 'unconnected' with local file access, cache and DB. and if/when connected it syncs to the central server.

available for several browsers on all platforms; but still under heavy evolution.

Problem

I want to enhance my browser-based web application with functionality that enables management of local files and folders. E.g. folder tree structures should be synchronized between local workstation and server via HTTP(S). I am aware of security-related limitations in browser-based applications. However, there are some techniques that "work around" these issues: - Signed Java applets (full trust) - .NET Windows Forms browser controls (no joke, that works. Just the configuration is horrible) - ActiveX My question is: What do you use/suggest, both technology and implementation practice? Key requirement is that the installation process is as simple as possible. Thanks for your opinions!

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