Microsoft Windows NT Server White Paper 3
Key Terminology
Directory Replication
The copying of a master set of directories from a server (called the
export server) to specified servers or workstations (called import com-
puters) in the same or other domains. Replication simplifies the task
of maintaining identical sets of directories and files on multiple com-
puters, because only a single master copy of the data is maintained.
Files are replicated when they are added to an export directory and
each time a change is saved to one of the exported files.
Domain Structure
In Windows NT, a domain is a collection of computers defined by the
administrator of a Windows NT Server network that share a common
directory database. A domain provides access to the centralized user
accounts and group accounts maintained by the domain administra-
tor. Each domain has a unique name.
Home Directory
A home directory is a directory that is accessible to the user and con-
tains files and programs for that user. A home directory can be
assigned to a single user or to a group of users.
Local Profile
A local profile is specific to a computer. A user who has a local profile
on a particular computer can gain access to that profile only while
logged on to that computer.
Mandatory Profile
A mandatory profile is a preconfigured roaming profile that the user
cannot change. In most cases, these are assigned to a person or a
group of people for whom a common interface and standard configu-
ration is required.
NetLogon Service
For Windows NT Server, the NetLogon service authenticates domain
logons and keeps the domain’s directory database synchronized be-
tween the primary domain controller (PDC) and the backup domain
controllers (BDCs).
Regedt32.exe
The 32-bit version of the Registry Editor.
Registry
The registry is a database where Windows NT internal configuration
information and machine- and user-specific settings are stored.
Registry Hive
A hive is a section of the registry that is saved as a file. The registry
subtree is divided into hives (named for their resemblance to the cel-
lular structure of a beehive). A hive is a discrete body of keys,
subkeys, and values.
Roaming Profile
A roaming profile is stored on a network share and can be accessed