Since it is Novell 5.1, if they are using Veritas 8.6 BackupExec there is a fairly reliable 'open file option' that will backup files on the server that are open. It is important that the Novell server have the latest support packs installed for both the OS and Veritas (they both typically post them at that same time for convenience for their users). Of course when the server comes out with a support pack that breaks the backup software (this can happen but not typical) then it is a 'call' as to what is more important: reaping the benefits of the OS support pack what network reasons or having a reliable backup (or switching to a working backup by alternate mode until Veritas releases a patch). Anyway, if they have selected this open file option, then having the system administrators not disconnect you would be the better choice because your file would not be corrupted and it would be backed up. Of course any pending changes would not be backed up, but the last saved copy would be though. I have not seen data corruption with this but I'm sure nothing is 100% and it can happen. ARCSERVER is not as reliable as far as open files go (at least not in my experience) but I have not used their products in the last year and a half so it could have improved markably. Personally, I always preferred Palindrome (with so many servers we were running 24/7 it was THE most reliable in my experience) but of course as you know it was purchased by Seagate and then Vertias bought Seagate's backup products and Palindrome was discontinued because it was a competitive product. I realize that this is outside of your control, but if you know what backup means they are using it would help in determing which is your better option. I'll see what I can find tonight in my documentation.

>>Hi Cindy,
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>>UPDATE: I neglected to mention that this really depends also on the server os.
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>I should have mentioned that it's Novell 5.1. As I recall you've worked with Novell servers.
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>on the server to do this also.
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>>ORIGINAL MESSAGE:
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>>When I worked for the government we had basically the same situation as you describe occuring early on. I was fortunate though in that I was also the network manger at the time and could see it from both viewpoints and attempt to resolve the situation (instead of having someone just tell that 'this is the way it is, period.'-I HATE that)
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>Well, they gave me a choice - they would not disconnect me (but open files might not be backed up) or they would disconnect me (but files might be corrupted).
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>>I have documentation (hard) on backing up open files and disconnecting while files are open, but I believe that some of the information is also available on websites. Also, new technology can change things and I am not as up-to-date on it all as I once was. However, when I get home, I will check my documentation and see if it can be located from their website as well so you can get the information in writing or least get someplace to start.
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>That would be great. Thanks.