sharing outlook on server

[binks120]

is it posible to set up a server at home so my home network all use the same outlook ie i can access the calender and contacts from any pc as they would be run from the server
sorry if thats vauge but ive no idea but learn very fast

[SquirrelDip]

Yes - Although Microsoft doesn't recommend it here's what I've done (and have had no problems):

1. Set up a share directory on your server. I call mine "MailShare"

2. Locate the folder on your local disk that contains the Outlook.pst. If you're using XP/2000 you should find it in C:\Documents and Settings\<user>\Application Data\Microsoft\Outlook

Make sure you have the viewing of hidden files turned on as this folder is hidden by default.

3. Copy all the files to your shared directory on the server. Delete the files on your local disk (I'd recommend moving them first - make a temp folder under their current location and move them there, once all is working you can then delete the files). Oh, Outlook must not be running while you do this...

4. Start up Outlook and it will display a message stating it can't find the .pst files - browse to the new location.

5. Your Outlook should be running as before.

6. On new set-ups simply delete the files in the Outlook.pst folder and browse to the server. You'll have to re-setup your e-mail accounts but you will be using the same storage area with all the contacts etc...

Note: Only downside that I've had is that only one computer can be running Outlook at a time.


Hope this helps...