MS Access files

[timbo343]

Hey

We have blocked all exes running from kids home drives and USB sticks but the local computer exes like word and access still work ok. The problem we have got is that when a user tries to open a .mdb file from windows explorer, it says that there is a software restriction but if you open up access first then open the file, the database opens fine. In GPO i have made sure that under user config > windows settings > Security settings > software restriction policies > Designed file types i have removed the extensions MDB and MDE but it still throws up an error. Just for a bit more info, it works file when you open a .doc file.

Can anyone suggest what else access uses to open the mdb files.

T

[Lord_Edam]

some versions create an LDB lock file in the same location as the database.
If that doesn't work, grab filemon (or similar) and watch what's happening when you open the database on an unrestricted PC.

[sidewinder]

I am having the same problem - timbo did you manage to fix it?

Ive removed anything to do with Access in designated file types and also used FileMon to watch activity and it doesnt open anything else except fonts

Its just a really stupid problem and means all the hard work Ive done with this restriction policy might be wasted because teachers are moaning that kids cant open their databases (although you can open access and open from there)

[mac_shinobi]

Just out of curiousty what did you do to stop students from executing exe files on there USB memory sticks ?

[tarquel]

Best way is using Windows Server 2003 R2 gecko, using the File Server Resource Manager > File Screening Management

Its so easy even *I* can do it

Nath.

[Stese]

R2 is different to SP2 IIRC....


Where can I get R2 from?

Many thanks...

[mac_shinobi]

you can only do that on so many places cant you with the file screening ?

[Teth]

I have exactly the same issue myself.

I quickly discovered they could open them from inside access and informed teachers and that is now what they do. Its untidy tho and I'd really like to know why every other office document type opens just fine except .mdb and .mde files.

[mrforgetful]

We have a problem where some students cannot create reports. It goes through all the motions then gets an error. Sorry that's a bit vague, just remembered.

[plexer]

Stese: R2 is a new product you have to buy a licence for it before you can install it.

Ben

[Teth]

We frequently have a problem with reports after a room is re-imaged. The wizrd will get to the last part and then fail or if you try to create in design view it will just fail to open with no error.

I've found it to be printer related. I forget the exact process for this because its been september since we re-imaged anything but I find logging into one machine as admin opening an access database with an existing report created, going into page setup and making sure everything is correct then printing a copy and suddenly the whole room will be creating reports fine again.

It bothers me that I'm not sure exactly why this works but it has done countless times now.

Now if they could just open access databases from explorer I'd be happy

[mrforgetful]

Cheers Teth I'll give it a go tomorrow