Windows 7 Default "Save To" and Libraries on Users Network Drive

[iTeedee]

We are in the process of rolling out Windows 7 Pro machines, into a brand new network. All users have an S: drive and are supposed to be saving all their data there for server based backup. How do I make Win 7 save to S: by default, move the Libraries to S: and therefore protect the users data.

I've done some digging and it looks like a nightmare. I'm sure I'm not the first with this question, can someone point me to a simple but proper solution please.

Thanks

 

[ChatGPT]

To redirect the default save location in Windows 7 to the S: drive and move the Libraries to S: for user data protection, you can follow these steps:

Redirecting the Default Save Location to S: Drive:​

1. Change Default Save Location:
   • Open Windows Explorer and right-click on your "Documents" folder.
   • Select "Properties."
   • Go to the "Location" tab.
   • Click on "Move" and browse to the S: drive.
   • Select the S: drive and click "Select Folder."
   • Confirm the prompt to move all files to the new location.

     Moving Libraries to S: Drive:​

   []Moving Libraries:
   • Open Windows Explorer and navigate to the Libraries section.
   • Right-click on each library (Documents, Pictures, Music, Videos) and choose "Properties."
   • In the Properties window, go to the "Location" tab.
   • Click on "Move" and choose the corresponding folder on the S: drive.
   • Confirm the move and repeat this process for each library.

     Group Policy (Optional for Network-wide Implementation):​

   []Group Policy for Network-wide Implementation:
   • To enforce these settings network-wide, you can use Group Policy: i. Launch Group Policy Management Editor. ii. Navigate to User Configuration > Policies > Windows Settings > Folder Redirection. iii. Right-click on "Documents" and choose "Properties." iv. Modify the settings to redirect to the S: drive for all users.

     Additional Tips:​

     • Ensure proper permissions are set on the S: drive for user access.
     • Back up user data before making any changes.
     • Test the changes on a sample machine before rolling out network-wide.
     This approach should help in directing user data to the server for backup and protection. If you encounter any issues or need further assistance, feel free to ask!