• designed for collaborative use of files
• cache copies of files
• synchronised on reconnect
• available on XP Pro only
• incompatible with Fast User Switching
• enabled via Folder Options
• options available to synchronise at logon, logoff
• files can be encrypted
• can limit disk space usage
• won't synchronise files opened by other users
• partial synchronisation occurs when you choose to make folder available offline. The synchronisation is referred to as partial, because it occurs at that instant, rather than when you go offline
• XP creates a special folder: 'Offline Files' and can create a desktop shortcut
• 10% disk space used by default
• automatic caching not suitable where files change a lot

Working with Offline Files

• Navigate via Network Places, and choose make available offline
• Icon in notification area

Caching Options

• Shared folders Management Console: fsmgmt.msc
• Properties option for shares only available if Simple File Sharing is disabled
• options are: auto cache documents, auto cache programs, manual caching

auto cache Documents: windows caches a server-based file/folder when you access it. The server file is also opened to prevent others from accessing it. Autocaching will discard older documents if space is low

AutoCache Programs: caching programs can speed up execution time

Manual Caching: user required to run 'Synchronise' from Accessories

Synchronisation Rules

• if cached copy changed and server copy not changed, file is updated
• if cached copy not changed and server copy is changed, windows updates cached copy
• if both have changed you get to choose between client, server or both. Both involves renaming client copy
• if either file deleted, other file is deleted if hasn't changed
• if server copy deleted, you get a dialogue
• if client copy deleted, you get a dialogue
• if a new file is added to a server folder, file is copied to your cache

Use Accessories: Synchronise, to synchronise on demand, on schedule, on idle.

When you turn off Offline Files, XP purges the folders unless automatic caching enable. Use Tools - options: Offline Files: Delete to delete them

Briefcase

• create briefcase on removable media on desktop PC
• copy briefcase to laptop
• copy briefcase from laptop
• open briefcase on desktop PC and choose Synchronise