Using mutiple user accounts to isolate two programs

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Guest

I posted the following question earlier in the Windows XP General forum.

"A scientific instrument is part of a system controlled by XP. I want to use
the instrument on its own (not as part of the system), and using different
software that I will install separately.

"To avoid any conflicts (in filing, registry, ..., whatever), can I install
the software with abolutely no possible connection with the first system
(i.e., almost as though it's a different PC; only by rebooting can one switch
between systems)?"

Indeed, the answer suggested was multi-booting.

I am wondering if I can achieve the same result more easily using XP's
built-in multi-user feature. I can easily create a new user account. Can
anyone tell me where I can find instructions for isolating folders,
registries, and all else so that neither program can in any way affect the
operating environment of the other?

Thanks.
 
I am wondering if I can achieve the same result more easily using
XP's built-in multi-user feature. I can easily create a new user
account. Can anyone tell me where I can find instructions for
isolating folders, registries, and all else so that neither
program can in any way affect the operating environment of the
other?
Click to expand...

Not possible. All that user accounts give you is the a unique HKCU
(HKEY Current User) registry. Both accounts will have equal access to
HLKM (HKEY Local Machine) and the Windows system folder (given by %
systemroot%).

Now, you could possibly restrict certain parts of the registry to
certain accounts. This works for files and folders as well. This
would involve using Filemon, Regmon and Acessenum from Sysinternals to
track down what each program uses. Good luck, a dual boot is the best
answer. :)

Adam
 
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