Linking Access Database to a specific Workgroup Information File

[Tbetts]

Hello. My group uses Access 97. I am working on creating a couple of
applications for a small group of users that I work with (about 10 people
will be using this database). I want to set permissions on it to allow
certain users (by ID) to use to access certain information. I have figured
out how to set permissions and add users, but when I do this, it applies to
the default system.mdw file. Is there a way that I can create a special .mdw
file for this database only? I only want them prompted for a Logon ID and
Password when they use this database, not any others that they use. Is this
possible? Can I create a new workgroup information file and set up all of my
permissions in there and then link this specific application (database) to
that .mdw (workgroup information file) file? And use the defualt system.mdw
file for all other Access databases? Please help!

Thank you.

 

[Lynn Trapp]

Tanya,
It is not only possible, but it is the recommended approach. In fact, if
you are using the system.mdw file for your security, then your database is,
most likely, not as secure as you think it is. Get a copy of the Security
FAQ (see the Security page of my website), read it several times, and follow
it to the letter. It has instructions for doing exactly what you want.

--
Lynn Trapp
MS Access MVP
www.ltcomputerdesigns.com
Access Security: www.ltcomputerdesigns.com/Security.htm
Jeff Conrad's Big List: www.ltcomputerdesigns.com/JCReferences.html

 

[G. Vaught]

Yes you can create a special workgroup file, name it other than System.mdw
such as, SecuredDBName.mdw. Be sure you make a complete backup copy of the
database before you create new security. This is in the event you goof and
generally with 97 you will. There is a security paper on Microsoft's
knowledge base that you should download and read thoroughly. Also if you set
security using the System.mdw, you need to remove that information. The
easiest way is to reinstall Access 97 or find a machine that did not have
security set on the System.mdw and copy it over your other System.mdw.

Once you get the workgroup file created correctly and security is set,
create a shortcut on each user's machine that points to the new secured
workgroup. Within the shortcut you type the Path to Access exe w/wrkgroup
switch and then the database name or vice versa. I can't remember the exact
order.