Mapped drive vs. shortcut to folder

[MattNeedsHelpPlease]

So, we have a number of remote offices that currently map a drive back to the
main office server over slower WAN links (2-3Mbit or less). It is a fact
that the CIFS protocol does not work well over a WAN connection and mapping
drives uses network overhead. So we could use a shortcut on the users
desktop to the UNC path i.e. \\servername\share.

My question is:
Is it better for network purposes to use a shortcut to a UNC path or a
mapped drive?

 

[Lanwench [MVP - Exchange]]

So, we have a number of remote offices that currently map a drive
back to the main office server over slower WAN links (2-3Mbit or
less). It is a fact that the CIFS protocol does not work well over a
WAN connection and mapping drives uses network overhead. So we could
use a shortcut on the users desktop to the UNC path i.e.
\\servername\share.

My question is:
Is it better for network purposes to use a shortcut to a UNC path or a
mapped drive?

I personally prefer mapped drives, as they're easier for users to remember,
and allow you to switch/move stuff around on the servers without users ever
noticing it. Are you having problems with the current setup? Local file
servers & DFS, or terminal services in the main office, may be a better way
to go.

 

[Robert L. \(MS-MVP\)]

Agree. For example, we moved our shared data from data1 server to adta2
server recently. What we need to do is changing the logon script. However,
some users who create shortcut will need change it manually. Yes, DFS is
better.

--
Bob Lin, MS-MVP, MCSE & CNE
Networking, Internet, Routing, VPN Troubleshooting on
http://www.ChicagoTech.net
How to Setup Windows, Network, VPN & Remote Access on
http://www.HowToNetworking.com
"Lanwench [MVP - Exchange]"

 

[Terry R.]

The date and time was 9/18/2008 10:25 AM, and on a whim, Robert L.
(MS-MVP) pounded out on the keyboard:

Agree. For example, we moved our shared data from data1 server to adta2
server recently. What we need to do is changing the logon script. However,
some users who create shortcut will need change it manually. Yes, DFS is
better.

Hi Robert,

I agree with you, but I was told in another group that AD will update
shortcuts with the new location. I told that person it hasn't happened
on any networks I admin and the shortcuts need to be changed manually.
Someone else piped in and said their shortcuts were automatically
updated also. I'm wondering a bit about it.

It has always been easier to change one script IMO.

--
Terry R.

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[Jack \(MVP-Networking\).]

Hi
For regular exchange of files, and performing editing through the Network.
Mapped Drive provides smoother, easer operation
Jack (MS, MVP-Networking)