Move existing local install to a network

There are several things to note when moving to a network with multiple client computers:

  • Set up a common location to hold the program data. Configure this as a mapped network drive rather than a UNC path (i.e. "P:\payroll" as opposed to"\\serversbs\payroll\payroll"). You must configure this mapped network drive exactly the same on all PCs you wish to run IRIS Earnie. Do not run data from the root of the drive, create a subfolder on the mapped drive.

    • The mapped drive must also be viewable using net use via the Command Prompt.

Do not install via a UNC path. If you are not sure, contact your IT department or supplier.

  • All users must have full access rights to the install folder.

Depending on your security and antivirus software, you may also need to configure exceptions and exclusions to the data location on both the local computers and the server. Refer to your system administrator for configuring permissions and security software.

Once you have set up your shared location, copy the local program folder onto the mapped network drive. In IRIS Earnie, to find the location of your program folder, check Help > About...

  1. Copy and paste this folder onto your mapped drive.

  2. Uninstall the local copy of IRIS Earnie. Don't worry this will not remove any payroll data files.

  3. Once the local copy is uninstalled, we need to re-install it for network use. Work through the installation wizard, and when asked where you want to install, browse to the folder on your mapped network drive (the one you just copied over).

  4. Complete the rest of the wizard to finish the setup.

  5. Work through the same process on each remaining PC from which you wish to access payroll.

    Do not attempt to run a network installation with ANY user logged into payroll.

  6. Start payroll - if your licence details are requested, you have made a mistake in the steps above. Uninstall and run set up again, ensuring you browse to the same folder you copied onto the mapped drive.

“Data Files Cannot be Found at…”

Because the file path has changed between the old and new installation, you will need to point the software to the data file when you first open each company.

If you see the message Data Files Cannot be Found at…

Select Yes. In the list, find the file xxxxDATA.MDB (xxxx is the company number, for instance No.1 = 0001DATA.MDB), choose this and select Open.

The system will only show the correct data file for each company and will set the new data location.