CKBox version 2.6.0: Introducing Private Categories

CKBox continues to simplify image and file management in CKEditor, now with enhanced access control options. With the addition of Private Categories in version 2.6.0, administrators can selectively manage access to categories.

CKBox version 2.6.0 was released on 7 October.

The release includes the new Private Categories and custom thumbnail features, along with updated dependencies for improved performance and security.

# Quick links

• CKBox changelog for details about all releases
• CKBox On-Premises changelog for specific updates for On-Premises deployments
• CKBox documentation for an in-depth guides
• Contact us page to set up a meeting to answer any questions you may have.

Here is a closer look at the new and exciting Private Categories feature added to CKBox in this release.

# NEW Private Categories

The introduction of Private Categories builds on previous access management features, such as Permissions in 2.5 and Workspaces in 1.6, offering a new layer of control over access.

With Private Categories, administrators can now set specific asset categories as private, limiting access to authorized users only. By default, all files uploaded to CKBox are public, meaning that anyone with a link—such as a CDN link—can access and download those files. The Private Categories feature addresses this by allowing administrators to block public access to these links, making assets accessible only to selected, authorized users.

When a category is marked private, users must be authorized to view or download assets within it. This is achieved through a simple authorization (via a browser cookie), ensuring only approved individuals can access these assets, even when embedded in content.

# Other Improvements

• Dependency updates: Selected dependencies have been updated to their latest versions, bringing performance optimizations and general system improvements.
• Custom thumbnails: For non-image assets, users now have the option to upload custom thumbnails.

# Feedback and Support

If you have specific questions or you would like to report an issue, contact us.

# How to get CKBox

• New users can try all advanced CKBox features, including Private Categories, with our 30-day free trial.
• CKBox is available on Starter, Premium, Pro, and Enterprise plans. You need to sign up for a CKBox subscription plan that includes the feature you want to access.

To use CKBox with CKEditor 5, a CKEditor Commercial License is required. This license subscription removes GPL license restrictions, and allows you to choose and purchase Premium features for CKEditor 5.