Chapter 13. Multi-User Files on a Network

Although many people create single-user databases for their own purposes, in general databases are maintained and used by more than one person. Frequently, that means that several users will have an urgent need to use this information at exactly the same time. If you have networked computers no one has to wait in line. One of FileMaker Pro's strengths is its ability to allow file sharing on a network by both Windows and Macintosh users simultaneously. While one person is entering new data, another can be printing reports while a third person is searching for particular records. This basic capability is enhanced and turbo-charged with FileMaker Server, which eliminates the major limitations placed on the standard version and supports more extensive LAN and Internet access. FileMaker Server is covered in the next chapter.