Verifying Computer Settings for Troubleshooting Access Control
Applies To: Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2003 R2, Windows Server 2003 with SP1, Windows Server 2003 with SP2
Before you begin troubleshooting, verify that your computer is configured properly and that access control is set up properly.
Settings to Verify Before You Troubleshoot
Verify all of the following items:
Determine what type of file system you are using
Make sure you have administrative rights on the computer you are troubleshooting
Install all critical updates and security updates for your system (Windows Server 2003 or Windows 2000 Server)
Update all of your software, including non-Microsoft software
Determine what type of file system you are using.
Windows Server 2003 and Windows 2000 Server support the FAT16, FAT32, and NTFS file systems. Because NTFS is required for many advanced, specific security options, it is strongly recommended that you use NTFS. Perform the following procedure to determine what file system is present on your computer.
To determine your computer's file system
Open the Computer Management snap-in. Click Start, click Control Panel, double-click Administrative Tools, and then double-click Computer Management.
In the console tree, expand Storage, and then click Disk Management.
In the details pane, note the file system listed under the File System column.
Make sure you have administrative rights on the computer you are troubleshooting.
You cannot modify access control settings unless you are a member of the Administrators group on the computer that you are administering.
To verify that you are a member of the Administrators group
Open the Computer Management snap-in. Click Start, click Control Panel, double-click Administrative Tools, and then double-click Computer Management.
In the console tree, double-click Local Users and Groups, and then click Groups.
In the details pane, double-click Administrators and verify that your account name or a group to which your account is a member appears in the Members list.
You can also tell if you have the appropriate administrative rights to configure access control by opening Local Security Policy in Control Panel under Administrative Tools. If you do not have administrative rights, all of the controls in the Local Security Policy user interface (UI) will appear dimmed and a warning will appear telling you that you need to be a computer administrator to change any settings.
Install all critical updates and security updates for your system (Windows Server 2003 or Windows 2000 Server).
Some updates might be required for the Windows access control system to function properly.
To verify that you have all critical updates and security patches
- Click Start, click Help and Support, click Windows Update, and then follow the instructions that appear on your screen.
If you are using Windows Update Services, check that all updates have been approved and applied to your computer.
Update all of your software, including non-Microsoft software.
The Windows access control system might not function properly with some programs unless you update the programs with the most recent service pack or software update. Newer versions of many applications, such as antivirus programs, will automatically configure access control and might resolve any problems you have.
You should also work with any vendors to ensure that all custom applications are up to date.