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Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 manual Log Files Used by Profiles, All Users Shared Profile

Models: Windows NT 4.0

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You may notice that in a given user’s profile directory, there are more files and directories than those listed in the example above. This may be due to the files and directories created by the user. For example, when the user logs on, if the server-based profile is found to be more recent than the one on the local computer, the entire contents of the User Profile path is copied to the client workstation and is then written back to the server when the user logs off. If the user has saved any documents in the home directory and the home directory is in the user’s User Profile path, the documents become part of the User Profile. These documents are downloaded when you log on to the network and written back to the server when you log off the network. Note that this process could slow down the logon process considerably.

Log Files Used by Profiles

Log files are binary files that track changes to a profile. As changes are made, they are recorded in a log file and then written to NTuser.xxx. If for some rea- son, the changes cannot be recorded in NTuser.xxx, they are applied at the next logon. When a user makes a change to his or her profile, the change is made to the user's locally cached profile, even if a mandatory profile is in use. (In this case, the changes are not propagated to the server copy and are overwritten the next time the user logs on.) If the user has a roaming User Pro- file, when the user logs off, the NTuser.dat file is copied to the server and the changes are saved (unless the profile is being used in a local mode).

The All Users Shared Profile

The All Users profile directory contains common groups that apply to all users logging on locally to a given workstation. When a user logs on, programs and shortcuts from the All Users profile are also available to the user— in addition to the user’s personal User Profile programs and shortcuts. Note that the All Users profile on a domain controller does not apply to domain users logging on

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Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 manual Log Files Used by Profiles, All Users Shared Profile
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Windows NT 4.0 specifications

Microsoft Windows NT 4.0, released on July 29, 1996, marked a significant milestone in the evolution of Microsoft's operating systems. As the successor to Windows NT 3.51, this version brought a range of enhancements and features that appealed to both enterprise users and consumers.

One of the standout characteristics of Windows NT 4.0 was its introduction of the Windows 95 user interface, which significantly improved user experience and accessibility. This graphical interface made it easier for users to navigate the operating system, transitioning from the more complex interfaces of previous NT versions. The integration of familiar elements such as the Start menu and taskbar helped bridge the gap between professional and personal computing environments.

Windows NT 4.0 was built on a robust and secure architecture. It utilized the NT kernel, which provided improved multitasking and stability compared to its predecessors. This operating system was designed to handle multiple user sessions simultaneously, making it suitable for servers as well as workstations. The inherent stability of NT 4.0 made it a favorite in enterprise environments, particularly for critical applications and systems.

Another defining feature of NT 4.0 was its support for a wide range of hardware, making it versatile across various machine configurations. It included compatibility with numerous devices and peripherals, which facilitated its adoption in diverse settings.

In addition to user interface enhancements and hardware compatibility, Windows NT 4.0 introduced powerful networking capabilities. The operating system supported TCP/IP natively, alongside NetBEUI and IPX/SPX protocols. This meant that it could seamlessly integrate into existing network environments, providing essential services for file and printer sharing, domain management, and remote access through features like Remote Access Service (RAS).

Security was another key focus area for Windows NT 4.0. Built around security principles, it employed a discretionary access control system, allowing administrators to define user permissions and manage access to resources effectively. This was particularly appealing to businesses that needed to enforce strict security policies.

Windows NT 4.0 also included improved support for backup and recovery, through the inclusion of the NT Backup utility. The operating system allowed for the creation of scheduled backups and simplified data recovery processes, enhancing data integrity and reliability.

As NT 4.0 entered its later years, it laid the groundwork for future Windows operating systems, influencing the design of later versions, particularly Windows 2000. It combined user-friendly features with enterprise-level robustness, ultimately shaping expectations for modern operating systems across various industries.