In a multi-user environment, you must ensure that the databases to be shared are located properly, that R:BASE is prepared to protect your data, and that all workstations are properly configured to share databases.
The database and custom application are stored on a shared network drive in order to allow multi-user access to the files. Each user must have the necessary read and write privileges in order to connect to the database. The network location must be accessible to all the workstations that will launch R:BASE and connect to the database. In addition to the security systems that most networks provide, the R:BASE GRANT command, with which access rights are assigned, provides additional security for R:BASE databases.
When R:BASE is on a local area network, users can share R:BASE program files, printers, hard disks, directories and databases. You can also have R:BASE program files on a local drive or workstation; however, those files will only be available to the user of that particular machine.
R:BASE on a network allows multiple users to simultaneously create and share new and existing databases, add, change, and print data, as if each user were the only one using that database. To ensure data integrity, R:BASE includes automatic concurrency control and a locking system that eliminates conflicts, such as two users attempting to change the same data at the same time. R:BASE has commands that allow a user to manually set the locks and wait periods that prevent conflicts.
Whether an R:BASE program or database files are stored on a network server or local hard drive, the limit on the number of seats using R:BASE remains in effect. Also, only a limited number of users can access some parts of R:BASE at the same time. For example, although users can share program files, only one user at a time can import data to a given database with the Import/Export utility, create or alter the structure of a database, or create, edit, or convert a given application file.
R:BASE can use most printers that are compatible with your network operating system. In some cases, you need only attach the printer to print from R:BASE. In other cases, you must identify the printer to the network operating system.
To set R:BASE up in a network environment, several steps need to be followed:
•Verify and secure how many software licenses (Per Seat for LAN or Remote Client for remote use) which will launch R:BASE
•Install R:BASE (client or server installation) for the workstations and/or servers
•Place all database and application files on a shared network drive that is accessible from all workstations
•Create or utilize an existing startup file to connect to the database and run the application, which is specified within a desktop shortcut
The following topics provide information you will need to when installing R:BASE on a multi-user system.
Customizing the End User's Computer
