Creating Alternate Folder Paths

You may need to create shared folders for groups of users who need a com- mon set of tools and shortcuts. Windows NT 4.0 System Policies allows you to create such shared folders.

To create shared folders and alternate folder paths:

1.On a specific server, create a folder that contains shortcuts to network applications or to locally installed programs. If you are creating application shortcuts that will point to local paths on Windows NT machines, refer to the section “Setting Up Shortcuts for Server-based Profiles.”

2.Share the folder.

3.Using the System Policy Editor, under computername or Default Com- puter, select the option Custom Shared Folders, then select Custom Shared Program Folder.

4.Enable this option. By default the local All Users folder for the workstation will be used, but you can replace the path to point to the folder that you created in Step 1 and 2.

5.Save the policy file. When the user logs on, the policy file will be parsed for this information and will replace the common groups from the local ma- chine with the shortcuts, applications, and so forth, from the folder that you created earlier.

NOTE: This can be done per user for personal program groups and can also be done for other folder settings such as the startup group, Start menu, and desktop icons.

Setting Up Shortcuts for Server-based Profiles

You may notice that shortcuts created on any computer automatically embed a universal naming convention (UNC) path for the .lnk file, such as

\\machine\admin$

This embedded UNC in the link can be a problem when it is copied to a server and used in a server-based profile. By default, such links are resolved to the original location of the file (the absolute path) before any other path is used (these other paths are referred to as secondary or relative paths). In this case, the UNC path to the original file is always reachable, which prevents the link from being resolved via a local path. As a result, the user trying to execute the shortcut will be asked for the administrator's password for the computer on which the link was created.

This problem was corrected in the latest Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 U.S. Service Pack. After you install the service pack, you can work around the problem by modifying the registry as explained next.

To resolve links correctly:

1.Open Registry Editor (Regedit.exe).

2.Go to the following key:

HKEY_Current_User \Software \Microsoft

\Windows

\CurrentVersion

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Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 manual Creating Alternate Folder Paths, To create shared folders and alternate folder paths
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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.
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