Configuring Windows Server 2008 File Sharing

Given that Windows Server 2008 is a server operating system is not surprising that a primary function of this operating system is to serve files to users on other systems on a network. The primary focus of this chapter, therefore, is the sharing of files and folders on Windows Server 2008

Standard and Public File Sharing

Windows Server 2008 supports two types of file sharing, referred to as public file sharing and standard file sharing.

In the case of public file sharing any files to be shared must be copied to the server's Public folder located at %SystemDrive%\Users\Public. Once placed in this folder the files are accessible to any users logged locally onto the machine and, if enabled, to any network users. Public sharing provides some control over access to the files. For example, when the server belongs to a workgroup the public folder can be password protected. In addition, network access to files within the public folder can be restricted to reading and executing only or given permission to read, write, create and delete files.

Standard file sharing, which is only permitted on NTFS volumes, allows individual folders files and volumes to be shared to specific users. This provides far greater levels of security over network access through a combination of NTFS permissions and share permissions, and avoids the necessity to move files from their existing location in order to share them.