Question

How do I track and log file access? Preferably in the Windows event viewer.

Asked by: AshlandSG

We have a windows 2003 server providing access to files and folder shares, but is not a true "file server." One of our biggest clients expects us to provide logs showing when a file was opened, and or modified. No more than 10 files will be accessed in a month, somewhare around 50 file stored.

These logs need to be available to the client for at least 6, months preferably a year. I don't care if it's done via the event viewer or what, but the more autmated, of course the better. This will be one folder within a share with several other folders that do not need to be monitored.

Thanks! Brian

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Answers

 

by: 2PiFLPosted on 2008-02-07 at 17:13:46ID: 20847027

 

by: toniurPosted on 2008-02-09 at 05:26:55ID: 20857163

Hi!

This is step by step guide how to configure object access auditing, it is written for XP, but will work on Windows 2003 Server also. If your server is part of domain, ti would be better to use Group Policy instead of Local policy.

"How to audit user access of files, folders, and printers in Windows XP"
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/310399

HTH

Toni

 

by: whitefoxdennetPosted on 2008-04-01 at 14:18:10ID: 21258178

toniur's comment worked perfect for me.  Now I can track all use of files and folders on the shares of my server.

 

by: lulee5555Posted on 2008-10-14 at 14:38:04ID: 22716260

FileSure by www.bystorm.com works well for me. It's out of the box and no database to worry about. They have a full 15-day trial.

20120131-EE-VQP-002

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