1.1 Configure FileMaker Server

This initial part of the guide is essential for laying the groundwork to connect your FileMaker solutions with BetterForms.

Requirements

• FileMaker Server v16+ (v17+ preferred for Data API support)

• CWP (XML or Data API) enabled on the server

• A server with adequate CPU and a fast connection (data-center recommended)

• Base Elements Plugin (only used for the integration script in the Helper file)

Configuration Steps

1. Download the Helper File: Get the latest version here.

2. Change Admin Credentials: Open the helper file and change the default admin / admin credentials to your own secure password.

3. Set BetterForms User Password: Change the password for the BetterForms user account. This is the password the BetterForms servers will use to connect to this file. Note this password down, as you will need it when adding the server to the IDE and when setting up your own application files.

4. Upload to Server: Upload the configured helper file to your FileMaker Server.

5. Add Credentials to Your App: In your own FileMaker application file, create a BetterForms user account with the exact same password you set in step 3. This account needs a privilege set that allows Data Entry Only and has the fmxml (for CWP) and/or fmrest (for Data API) extended privileges enabled.

6. Enable CWP Gateway: Ensure either the XML Custom Web Publishing gateway or the Data API is enabled on your FileMaker Server. For FMS 17+, enabling the XML gateway must be done via the command line.

You must have a valid TLS certificate installed on your FileMaker Server to use the Data API.