How to check who has file open using client computer.

[nerd2018]

We have a network shared folder to store pdf files. There are several viewer softwares being used. The problem is when someone has a pdf open, others cannot manipulate it. All it says is someone has it open. It does not tell us who. We send a nroadcast email to close the file. It happens too often to call i.t. every time. Is there a utility that can be installed as a service on the server and client, to allow clients to see who has files open on the shared folder?

 

[shmoochie]

Yes. Here's one way to tell:
1. type "computer management" into the windows search bar and open it.
2. click "shared folders"
3. click "open files"

That should show you who has it open and you can force close the document. You'll probably have to have admin access though.

 

[nerd2018]

Yes. Here's one way to tell:
1. type "computer management" into the windows search bar and open it.
2. click "shared folders"
3. click "open files"

That should show you who has it open and you can force close the document. You'll probably have to have admin access though.

I am aware of this one, but the files are on a network share. Only the i.t. have admin on the server. How can this be done on the client?

 

[shmoochie]

Not that I know of. You really need to have someone designated to do what you are suggesting because there can be an incredible amount of fallout from force closing someone else's documents. I can assure you IT would rather handle it than give that permission to random people because those admin permissions grant access to a lot of sensitive material. Also, the ability to see who is working on what file is a privacy issue. I don't care if you work at law firm or a baskin robbins. Honestly, a manager should deal with this issue via a training/meeting if it is as pervasive as you say.

I'm sorry if that is not the solution you are working for. There may be one out there, but as someone who has worked worked in IT and management, this sounds like nightmare fuel.

 

[bill001g]

If you are in a small office you just yell out and ask who has it. Normal file shares should not really be used for files that multiple people can work on. You get all kinds of issue where people make copies of the file make updates and the over write each other not knowing the other person is using the same file. There are many specialized software packages to do this, some are rather inexpensive and other used for example to manage software that is in development can be outrageously expensive.

 

[nerd2018]

If you are in a small office you just yell out and ask who has it. Normal file shares should not really be used for files that multiple people can work on. You get all kinds of issue where people make copies of the file make updates and the over write each other not knowing the other person is using the same file. There are many specialized software packages to do this, some are rather inexpensive and other used for example to manage software that is in development can be outrageously expensive.

It is weird. My small department has full access to manage the files. Everyone else is supposed to have read only. But, even though they have read only, it locks the file when they open it. So we cannot save the file. We are a small company, but too large to yell. We send an email company wide for people to close the file.