offline files on a desktop PC?

[peter]

I came across a PC with offline files enabled.

Is there a good reason to enable offline files on a stationary PC that is
connected to the LAN all the time with a server that is on 24/7?

Also, when the user logs off, it does a file synchronization. I don't
understand why. Shouldn't the files be fully synchronized already at all
times when both the server and the client are connected?

-peter

 

[Rube]

Offline files are used primarily by clients who intend to be "off the
network." Desktops usually don't fit that profile. However, offline files
can be used for networks where the main server is distant, over a WAN link,
or where the local server is prone to crashing. It provides a cheap, fairly
un-reliable backup method.

Synchronization is not continuous. It is determined either by the client's
settings or by a group policy. By default, it syncs at logoff. Using the
advanced properties, you can set it up to sync every hour, half hour, etc.

Note: while connected to the network and in contact with the server, the
user CANNOT access the offline versions of files. They are kept in a special
folder in an encrypted state. They don't even resemble their actual file
names. They are only in use when the client can no longer contact the
hosting server.