How to setup a Windows File Server Share with Security Permissions

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of setting up a Windows File Server Share with security permissions. You'll learn how to create a shared folder, manage user permissions using Active Directory (AD) security groups, and map the shared folder using Group Policy. This setup is crucial for organizations looking to manage file access securely and efficiently.

Step 1: Create a Shared Folder

• Access the Server: Log into your Windows Server where you want to create the shared folder.
• Create a New Folder:
  • Navigate to the location where you want to make the folder (e.g., D:\Shares).
  • Right-click in the directory and select New > Folder.
  • Name the folder (e.g., "SharedFiles").
• Set Up Sharing:
  • Right-click the new folder and select Properties.
  • Go to the Sharing tab.
  • Click on Advanced Sharing.
  • Check the box for Share this folder.
  • Optionally, set a share name (e.g., "SharedFiles").

Step 2: Configure Security Permissions

• Set Permissions:
  • In the Advanced Sharing window, click on Permissions.
  • To allow access to everyone, add Everyone and set appropriate permissions (e.g., Read, Change).
  • Click OK to save the settings.
• Configure NTFS Permissions:
  • Go to the Security tab in the folder properties.
  • Click Edit to modify permissions.
  • Add users or groups from Active Directory and set their permissions (e.g., Full Control, Modify).
  • Use Allow or Deny as necessary to manage access.

Step 3: Create Active Directory Security Groups

• Open Active Directory Users and Computers:
  • Navigate to Start > Administrative Tools > Active Directory Users and Computers.
• Create a New Group:
  • Right-click on the desired Organizational Unit (OU) and select New > Group.
  • Name the group (e.g., "FileShareUsers").
  • Set the group scope (usually Global) and group type (typically Security).
  • Click OK to create the group.
• Add Users to the Group:
  • Right-click the newly created group and select Properties.
  • Go to the Members tab and click Add to include users.

Step 4: Map the Shared Folder Using Group Policy

• Open Group Policy Management:
  • Navigate to Start > Administrative Tools > Group Policy Management.
• Create a New Group Policy Object:
  • Right-click the target OU and select Create a GPO in this domain, and Link it here.
  • Name the GPO (e.g., "Map Shared Folder").
• Edit the GPO:
  • Right-click the new GPO and select Edit.
  • Navigate to User Configuration > Preferences > Windows Settings > Drive Maps.
  • Right-click and select New > Mapped Drive.
  • Configure the settings:
    • Action: Create
    • Location: \\ServerName\SharedFiles
    • Label as desired (e.g., "Shared Files")
    • Select the appropriate drive letter (e.g., Z:).
• Apply the Policy:
  • Close the Group Policy Editor. The policy will apply to users in the specified OU at the next logon.

Conclusion

You have successfully set up a Windows File Server Share with security permissions. Key steps included creating a shared folder, configuring permissions, setting up Active Directory security groups, and mapping the shared folder through Group Policy. For further enhancements, consider exploring DFS Namespaces and DFS Replication for more advanced file sharing solutions.