Does my computer need to be on the MSE domain?

Andrew Marx — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 01:14:00 GMT

Any time someone gets a new computer, people always ask: does it need to be on the domain? What are the advantages and disadvantages of putting it on the domain? If you're unfamiliar with the concept of a domain, I would direct you towards Wikipedia's entry on Active Directory.

Advantages of being on the MSE domain

Caching of your user name and password for accessing network resources
Automatic mapping of your personal file folder and group folder

If your computer isn't on the domain...

You can access your file share at \\mse-files\files\{username}

e.g. \\mse-files\files\jdoe

You can access your group folder at \\mse-files\groups\{group name}

e.g. \\mse-files\groups\pmg

I only add department-owned desktops to the domain--since laptops are mobile, they won't always be on Drexel's network, which can cause problems if you're out of sight of the domain controller for too long.

If you have questions regarding this policy, or if you'd like your desktop added to the domain, feel free to contact me.

MSE Tech : mse

Does my computer need to be on the MSE domain?