In Part 1 I discussed how you can use a ‘Briefcase’ to synchronize files with a storage device. If you are running Windows® XP Professional you have another option for synchronizing your files. This feature is appropriately named ‘Offline Files’. Offline files are primarily geared towards network file synchronization with you local storage. This is ideal for laptop users who travel and need to work as if they were in the office.

I have used both Briefcase and Offline Files extensively and overall, I prefer the briefcase method. One huge benefit of offline files is that this can be set for automatic synchronization. Sort of ‘set it and forget it’ type thingamajig. One additional thing to note about offline files is that this can be managed via Group Policy so a network administrator may disallow their use or preset the options.

I had intended on writing the steps for enabling offline files but I found a nice link that perfectly describes the process; making it a whole lot easier for me. Click HERE for the steps.

Labels: Apps, Information, Tech