Network Sharing problem

[Jill]

OK, Maybe you just can't do this (or, maybe I just can't).

Looking to run a number of pieces of software on a laptop and desktop and
I would like to share their program files.

Basically, I'm tring to point the notebook to a network file that has
been made available offline and syncs when I hook back upto my
network/desktop.

The software has been installed on both machines.

I shared the 'Program files' folder on the desktop and mapped it on the
notebook, so it shows up with its own drive letter. I tried to check
'make available offline' and it goes through the process, but the files
aren't available when I unplug the notebook from the network. I
unchecked all the read-only files in the directory I'm trying to share.

I can't seem to figure out why this isn't working.

I would like to do this with Outlook also, so that I can have one outlook
profile that travels with me and also syncs witht he desktop whenever its
around.

Thoughts?

A

 

[Gordon]

OK, Maybe you just can't do this (or, maybe I just can't).

Looking to run a number of pieces of software on a laptop and desktop and
I would like to share their program files.

Can't be done AFAIK. When you install a program in Windows it places entries
in the local registery to enable it to run so you can't run a program over
a network that is installed on another computer. What is it you are trying
to do? There may be another solution.

I would like to do this with Outlook also, so that I can have one outlook
profile that travels with me and also syncs witht he desktop whenever its
around.

You can use Offline Files with your Outlook pst file (although this is NOT
supported by Microsoft - so if you screw up your pst file it's down to you.
Backup, backup, backup!)
pst files are not allowed in the offline file types by default so you have
to use a workaround.
have a look here on how to do it:
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=252509

This does mean that you have to have Outlook installed on your laptop as
well as your desktop

HTH

 

[DL]

OL has to be installed on the PC.
You can synch the OL pst
MS doesnt support the use of a pst over a network, it can lead to corruption

Since the Apps are installed on both PC's why not sync their data?
You cannot use an app other than from its origonal installation folder.
ie If you install an App, then simply move the folder, the App will no
longer run.

But then perhaps I've missunderstood your Q

 

[A]

Thx for the responses guys; that post was a little jumbled, as I had just
spent about 4 hours trying to firgure out how to do it.

So, my problem is this.

Would like to sync a number of applications on two computers, so that
wheh changes are made on one machine, they get updated to the other
machine; hopefully automatically.

The softwares are Quickbooks 2004 Pro, Outlook 2003, Streets and Trips
2006 (not as important) and some Excel spreadsheets.

If need be, I can use a USB key, but the notebook sees the local network
on a daily basis, so it would be far easier if things synced
automatically when I entered my wireless network.

I have a feeling that there may have to be a different solution for each
software, but lets see what sort of suggestions you guys have first.

BTW DL, I'm very interested in your thoughts on syncing outlook. My main
concern is being able to take drafted emails, to-do lists and contacts in
sync on both machines.

Thx again all,

Andrew (excuse the alias; I've been meaning to change that one).

 

[Gordon]

Thx for the responses guys; that post was a little jumbled, as I had just
spent about 4 hours trying to firgure out how to do it.

So, my problem is this.

Would like to sync a number of applications on two computers, so that
wheh changes are made on one machine, they get updated to the other
machine; hopefully automatically.

The softwares are Quickbooks 2004 Pro, Outlook 2003, Streets and Trips
2006 (not as important) and some Excel spreadsheets.

Well for Excel workbooks and Outlook you can use Offline Files on the
laptop. Just be aware that AS Microsoft does not support using offline
files with pst files, it's down to you. If you screw up the pst file,
tough! Backup, backup, and backup!

How to add pst files to offline files:
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=252509

As to Quickbooks, you may have to contact support for that. If you can point
the program to datafiles in non-default locations, then again you can use
offline files.

The same applies to Streets and Trips

How to use Offline Files:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/mobility/learnmore/offlinefiles.mspx

HTH

 

[DL]

There are a number of sync tools available, I use Backer
http://www.cordes-dev.com/
For OL see http://www.slipstick.com/outlook/sync.htm