Tracking files on shared server

cybrsapphire · #1 March 24th, 2006, 11:10 PM

Is there anyway to track files that are located on a server that is shared. We have had files mysteriously disappearing, even though I back up system and can restore the files I would like to know who is moving or deleting these files. Any help would be appreciated.

**degsy** · #2 March 25th, 2006, 02:45 AM

Why allow users to delete files?

oracle128 · #3 March 25th, 2006, 07:54 AM

It depends on what method you're using to share files, what OS, etc. But as degsy asks, if you don't want users deleting files, why give them that access?

cybrsapphire · #4 March 27th, 2006, 05:46 AM

We are running Windows 2003 server. I have been running these excel files for the last 4 years with no problems in anyone deleting them and I really don't think they are deleting them just moving them to their desktop unkowning that they are removing them from the network and it is not that I mind it so much since I back everything up I just want to let the person know what they are doing wrong. I just think someone out of the 50 some people using these files is getting a little braver and accidentally moving the files to their desktop incorrectly versus linking to the file and thought that their might be a way to find out who was doing it versus having to check each and every desktop in the company. We give everyone in the company access to these files since their jobs depend on the information in these files, that is the reason why I insist on the backups. I appreciate the help just thought there was an easier way to track which person was possibly moving the files but I will just do it the old fashioned way. Thanks again for the help.

oracle128 · #5 March 27th, 2006, 12:53 PM

Why not just send out a memo, or other provide instructions, on how to properly access the files? Also, if they only need to read the files, not modify or delete them, why not just give them read only access?

renegade600 · #6 March 27th, 2006, 12:59 PM

the way they put a stop to it where I used to work was give warnings to those who moved files from the server.

Can you not setup a log of network activities.

cybrsapphire · #7 March 27th, 2006, 09:37 PM

Read only access does not stop them from dragging the file and dropping it somewhere, I wouldn't mind setting up a log of network activities, is it difficult to do? Oh, already sent out an email to everyone.

oracle128 · #8 March 28th, 2006, 01:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cybrsapphire

Read only access does not stop them from dragging the file and dropping it somewhere

No, but it will stop the original from being deleted (with read only access, dragging forces a copy to be made, instead of creating a copy and deleting the original).

cybrsapphire · #9 March 29th, 2006, 03:18 AM

Thanks for the tips, I will make the file read only and go from there. You have been a great help, and I really appreciate it.