Two-Password Shares and Password Caching

 Last reviewed: January 15, 1996
Article ID: Q90284
The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Windows for Workgroups versions 3.1, 3.11

SUMMARY

Windows for Workgroups permits two levels of access to a shared directory or ClipBook page:

  • Read-Only Access
  • Full Access

Each type of access may have a password associated with it, and the type of access granted to a client depends on which password he/she provides. This article discusses how Windows for Workgroups handles the password caching for dual-password shares.

MORE INFORMATION

Password caching is implemented differently for two-password shares. If the password typed for a two-password share was cached and retrieved the same way as other passwords, a client who knows both passwords would be confined to a single type of access because the password cache would prevent any further password prompts and therefore any chance of typing the other password.

When Windows for Workgroups restores a persistent connection to a two-password share, it is assumed that the last type of access used is the one desired. If a password for the resource is present in the cache, Windows for Workgroups uses it and does not prompt you for input.

If you make an explicit connection (made from the Connect Network Drive dialog box) to a two-password share, Windows for Workgroups gives you the option of typing the other password for the resource. If a password was found in the password cache, it is filled in as a suggested password to use (it is displayed as asterisks). You can accept that password or type a different one.

If one of the passwords is blank, Windows for Workgroups still prompts you for a password. This gives you the opportunity to type the nonblank password. If you type nothing, Windows for Workgroups connects you to the share with the blank password.

NOTE: To disable password caching and prevent your PWL file from being accessed, add the following line to the [NETWORK] section of the System.ini file: 

   PasswordCaching=no

KBCategory: kbnetwork kbusage kbother
KBSubcategory: wfw wfwg
Additional reference words: 3.10 3.11

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Last reviewed: January 15, 1996
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