Creating the Shared Folder

Shared Installation Folder

The SteelPLUS program files should be installed into a shared network folder that is accessible from every workstation that will run the software.

Using a shared installation provides several benefits:

  • A single installation to maintain
  • Easier software updates
  • Consistent program files for all users
  • Simplified network administration

Choosing a Shared Folder

Select a location on your file server that is intended for shared applications. Avoid using personal user folders or desktop locations.

Examples:

UNC Path (Recommended)

\\ServerName\Programs\SteelPLUS\VR2027\

Mapped Network Drive

K:\Programs\SteelPLUS\VR2027\

Folder Permissions

Configure the shared folder so that:

  • Administrators have Full Control.
  • SteelPLUS users have Read & Write permissions.
  • Only administrators should be allowed to modify or update the installation.

Verify Network Access

Before configuring any workstations, verify that users can:

  • Browse to the shared SteelPLUS folder.
  • Open the folder without errors.
  • Read & write to the files contained within the folder.

If a workstation cannot access the shared folder, SteelPLUS will not be able to load the toolbars and software correctly.

Best Practice

Whenever possible, use a UNC path (for example, \\ServerName\Programs\SteelPLUS\VR2027\) instead of a mapped drive letter. UNC paths are more reliable because they do not depend on every workstation using the same drive letter mapping.

Why This Matters

Every workstation loads the SteelPLUS program files from this shared folder. If the folder is moved, renamed, or users lose access to it, SteelPLUS will not load until the workstation configuration is updated.

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