One of the most important and fundamental objectives of any network environment is the requirement to centrally locate data for backup. Carefully planning the storage of files and data on your network makes achieving this objective much easier. The concept of Folder Redirection should be included in this plan.

Server machines are the easiest to set up because they do not come and go (as employees do). Employees are the real challenge and the task becomes a bit more complex with mobile computers, workplaces with higher turnover and dispersed networks.

Whether in a corporate hub office or in a branch office, as long as there is a domain controller available to implement group policy in your subnet, you can centrally store your users data (all users joined to the domain that is). My Documents Folder Redirection (built into Windows since Windows 2000) allows you to easily move documents from individual users machines to a centrally located share that simplifies backup and reduces IT and service costs. Improvements to environment include:

• easy backup of all User data
• easy restore of User data in case of loss/corruption (backup and version controlled globally)
• files can be worked with even when users are offline
• the company controls it’s data

Folder Redirection how to’s are available for Microsoft products at TechNet. To learn more, follow these links:

Windows Server 2003

• Folder Redirection Overview
• How to Configure Folder Redirection
• Security Considerations when Configuring Folder Redirection
• Best Practices for Folder Redirection in user Data and Settings Management
• … and
• Step-by-Step Guide to user Data and User Settings (simplified)
  

Windows Small Business Server 2003

• Client Document Redirection
• Manage Shared Folders (SBS)
• Migrating Windows Small Business Server 2003 to New hardware

To get help with your environment and assistance for all types of network services, contact WIGITAL at http://www.wigital.net