> > FM Server clearly runs its own layer on top of whatever > networking protocol > is in use (frequently TCP/IP). The files (e.g. ebase files) are opened by > the server and shared to all the clients. >
Yes, sort of, shared isn't quite the right word. FMP, the client, behaves the same whether it is going to FMP Server or another copy of FMP acting as a server. It uses the raw TCP/IP protocols. > I'm curious what happens on a Windows network when small number of users > share ebase (sometimes simultaneously). Is FM depending on Windows file > sharing to access the data? No, and in fact sharing the files via window is a very bad idea. Basic FMP PRO will try to use file access (thinking it is serving) if there is windows sharing present. > Can the database be shared without > Windows file > sharing? yes, and is what should be done. > Does FM still run something of its own network layer on top of > whatever protocol(s) are selected? > If FMP builds a layer on top of TCP/IP, it is not exposed to users so one cannot tell. > Related question: how does FM Server (or multiple simultaneous users > without FM Server) deal with file synchronization to avoid > corrupted/goofed > up data? > It obeys appropriate locking protocols using TCP/IP. ----------- The difference between how Server treats disk writes and now FMP is a question of robustness of the code and appropriate caching and flushing of the cache. The probability of data corruption on a power outage or program check error on FMP is very high and on Server very low. ------------------ Reminder to each recipient: To change your list account preferences, go to http://email.sparklist.com/scripts/lyris.pl?enter=support and enter the email address you used to subscribe to the ebase support list:: [email protected] To unsubscribe send a blank email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] --------------------------------------------------------------------- ebase - Relationship Management for Nonprofits, http://www.ebase.org ---------------------------------------------------------------------
