What is "Folder Redirection" and what does it do?
Folder Redirection is defined by automatically re-routing Windows standard user profile folders to use storage on another server. There are specific folders on a WSU employee's workstation that are synchronizing their files or data onto a separate server. The separate server can also be described as a file share server. These folders that are "redirecting" the data onto the separate server are also being cached in a encrypted location on the current workstation for off-line usage.
List of User Profile folders/locations being redirected
- Desktop Folder
- Documents Folder
- Downloads Folder
Note: All other folders (i.e. Music, Pictures, Videos) are not backed up.
The folder redirection system provides a number of useful benefits.
1. Backing Up to Long Term Storage.
Since these specific locations store information on a separate server. It creates a back up for any files you place in the folders listed above. In case of an emergency, this provides a simple way to keep data from being removed and provides a path for long term retrieval.
2. Having Your Data Follow You Between Your Many Windows PCs.
It also provides a portable alternative when trying to access files on another WSU Windows workstation. For example, you can store a PDF on your desktop. Then, you can log onto another workstation and that PDF file will still be there on your desktop.
3. Providing Restore Points For Your Files.
Provides snapshots/restore points for your data so you can retrieve lost files or deleted data in a file without the need to wait for IT staff . See https://www.weber.edu/financialservices/TSS_News3_ShadowCopies.html for details.