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Version: 0.9.1 (Next 🚧)

Sign into Pinepods

Pinepods provides a comprehensive sign-in experience that includes user authentication, customizable landing pages, and seamless integration with your preferred podcast listening workflow. The system supports multiple authentication methods and personalized start page preferences.

Overview​

The Pinepods sign-in system consists of several key components:

  • User Authentication: Secure login with username and password
  • Multi-Factor Authentication: Optional TOTP-based security enhancement
  • Password Reset: Self-service password recovery via email as long as you setup email options
  • Start Page Configuration: Customizable landing page after login
  • Session Management: Persistent login sessions across devices

Standard Login Process​

Basic Authentication​

Step 1: Enter Credentials​

  1. Username: Type your assigned or chosen username
  2. Password: Enter your account password
  3. Verify Input: Ensure credentials are entered correctly
  4. Submit: Click the "Sign In" button to authenticate

Step 2: System Verification​

  1. Credential Check: Pinepods verifies your username and password
  2. Account Status: System confirms your account is active
  3. Authentication Success: Successful login proceeds to your start page
  4. Error Handling: Invalid credentials display appropriate error messages

Step 3: Post-Login Actions​

  1. Session Creation: Pinepods establishes your user session
  2. Preferences Loading: System loads your personal settings and preferences
  3. Start Page Navigation: Automatic redirect to your configured start page

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)​

MFA-Enhanced Login Process​

If you've enabled MFA on your account, the login process includes an additional security step:

Standard Login First​

  1. Username and Password: Complete the normal credential entry
  2. Initial Verification: Pinepods validates your basic credentials
  3. MFA Prompt: System requests your authenticator code

MFA Code Entry​

  1. Authenticator App: Open your TOTP authenticator app (Google Authenticator, Authy, etc.)
  2. Locate Code: Find the 6-digit code for your Pinepods account
  3. Enter Code: Input the current code in the MFA prompt
  4. Time Sensitivity: Codes expire every 30 seconds, so enter promptly
  5. Complete Login: Successful MFA verification completes the login process

MFA Troubleshooting​

  • Expired Codes: Wait for a new code if the current one has expired
  • Time Sync: Ensure your device's clock is accurate for proper code generation
  • Code Accuracy: Double-check that you're entering the code correctly
  • App Issues: Verify you're using the code from the correct account in your authenticator

Password Recovery​

Forgot Password Process​

If you've forgotten your password, Pinepods provides a self-service recovery option as long as you set it up in the admin area of settings:

Initiating Password Reset​

  1. Forgot Password Link: Click "Forgot Password?" on the login page
  2. Account Information: Enter your username and associated email address
  3. Reset Request: Submit the password reset request
  4. Email Verification: Check your email for the reset code

Completing Password Reset​

  1. Email Code: Locate the password reset code in your email
  2. Return to Interface: The reset modal will appear after submitting the request
  3. New Password: Enter your desired new password
  4. Reset Code: Input the code from your email
  5. Submit Changes: Complete the password reset process
  6. Login: Use your new password to log into Pinepods

Password Reset Requirements​

  • Valid Email: Your account must have a valid email address configured
  • Email Configuration: Administrators must have configured email settings on the server
  • Code Expiration: Reset codes expire after a certain time for security
  • Single Use: Each reset code can only be used once

User Self-Registration​

Self-Service Account Creation​

If enabled by administrators, new users can create their own accounts:

Account Creation Process​

  1. Create New User: Click the "Create New User" button (if visible)
  2. User Information: Provide required account details:
    • Username: Choose a unique username for your account
    • Password: Create a secure password
    • Email Address: Provide a valid email for account recovery
    • Full Name: Enter your display name
  3. Account Validation: System verifies the provided information
  4. Account Creation: Successful validation creates your new account

Self-Registration Requirements​

  • Administrator Permission: Feature must be enabled by server administrators
  • Unique Username: Chosen username must not already exist
  • Valid Email: Email address must be properly formatted and accessible

Start Page Configuration​

Customizing Your Landing Page​

Pinepods allows you to configure which page you see immediately after logging in in the settings of your account:

Available Start Page Options​

  • Home: Dashboard view with recent activity and quick access features
  • Feed: Your personalized episode feed with latest content
  • Podcasts: Library view of all your subscribed podcasts
  • Queue: Your listening queue with planned episodes
  • Saved: Collection of bookmarked episodes
  • Downloads: Episodes downloaded to the server

Setting Your Start Page​

  1. Navigate to Settings: Access your user settings after logging in
  2. Start Page Options: Find the start page configuration section
  3. Select Preference: Choose your preferred landing page
  4. Save Settings: Apply your start page preference
  5. Next Login: Your choice takes effect on subsequent logins

Session Management​

Login Session Features​

  • Persistent Sessions: Stay logged in across browser sessions
  • Multiple Devices: Use the same account on different devices simultaneously
  • Cross-Platform: Sessions work across web, mobile, and desktop clients

Troubleshooting Login Issues​

Email Issues (Password Reset)​

  • Email Configuration: Verify your account has the correct email address
  • Spam Folder: Check spam/junk folders for password reset emails
  • Email Delivery: Allow time for email delivery
  • Administrator Help: Contact administrators if email issues persist

MFA Problems​

  • Clock Synchronization: Ensure your device's time is accurate
  • Code Generation: Verify your authenticator app is generating codes
  • Setup Verification: Confirm MFA was set up correctly
  • Recovery Options: Contact administrators if locked out due to MFA issues

Browser and Technical Issues​

Browser Compatibility​

  • Supported Browsers: Use current versions of major browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge)
  • JavaScript: Ensure JavaScript is enabled in your browser
  • Cookies: Enable cookies for the Pinepods domain
  • Cache Issues: Clear browser cache if experiencing persistent problems