NTFS - Applying permissions to extremely large folder

Applying NTFS permissions to large folder structures, especially via a UNC path, can indeed be a lengthy and cumbersome process. Below are suggestions to tackle this situation more effectively:

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Challenges and Proposed Solutions​

1. Session Timeouts and Interruptions:
   Since the process takes a long time, interruptions due to session timeouts, system reboots, or network issues can occur. Using a tool that natively supports resume functionality is key.
2. Efficient Application of Permissions:
   Breaking inheritance, applying permissions, and restoring inheritance for key folders is one way to minimize the spread. However, let’s discuss streamlined solutions, tools, and techniques you can use.

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Recommended Tools and Approaches​

1. ICACLS (Built-In Command Line Tool)​

The ICACLS command is a powerful way to manage NTFS permissions programmatically and can resume operations. With the /T parameter, permissions are updated recursively:
icacls "\\server\share\folder" /grant "username:(OI)(CI)F" /T /C /Q

• /T: Recursively applies permissions.
• /C: Ignores errors and continues.
• /Q: Runs quietly without verbose output.
  However, ICACLS doesn’t natively support pause/resume functionality.

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2. Robocopy for ACL Copying​

Robocopy is commonly known for file copying, but it can also manage NTFS security:
robocopy "\\server\share\source" "\\server\share\target" /SEC
Using /SEC, you can mirror file permissions between source and destination folders without introducing manual errors.

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3. SetACL​

SetACL is a third-party program that is highly customizable and supports exporting/importing permissions. You can save current permissions or log progress to continue from a specific point later:
setacl -on "\\server\share\folder" -ot file -actn ace -ace "n:username;p:full"
Benefits:

• Resume functionality.
• GUI option available with detailed progress.

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4. Applications with State Awareness​

Tools like TreeSize Professional or NTFS Permissions Reporter have advanced options for managing permissions, auditing them, and exporting/importing changes. These tools include better error handling and visualization to ensure you don’t inadvertently disrupt the folder structure.

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Advanced Tips​

Break Folder Application into Smaller Chunks​

Instead of targeting the entire parent folder, break the process into segments:

• Start applying permissions to immediate subfolders.
• Gradually cascade down the hierarchy.

Leverage PowerShell Scripts​

PowerShell’s granular control can minimize complexity. For example:
PowerShell scripts are highly customizable and can log progress for manual debugging.

Modify Advanced Timeout Settings​

If using network-based appliances, consider increasing timeout durations for UNC paths using Windows Group Policy or registry keys.

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Final Recommendations​

If you don’t wish to restructure permissions manually, a combination of SetACL (for progress-save functionality) and ICACLS (for integrated support) is likely your best choice. For comprehensive management with fewer headaches, GUI tools like TreeSize are excellent but come with licensing costs.
Feel free to share more details about your folder structures or specific constraints—happy to fine-tune these suggestions further!