Working with shared files as a client

As a client, you work with FileMaker Pro files in much the same way that you would as a single user, with these exceptions:

  • When you open a file, you see the layout, found set, and sort order from the last time the host closed the file. (You can define a script to switch to your preferred layout and settings. Since all users' scripts are saved to the shared file, personalize the script name so you know it's yours.)

  • If your account's privilege set prevents access to certain layouts or fields, you either can't view those layouts or you will see <No Access> for each field instead of the field data.

  • Because you are working on a network with other users, access to records and layouts may be delayed occasionally as other users work with the file.

  • Changes you make to records and layouts are saved in the shared file.

  • When you close a shared file as a client, you only close your connection to that file—it remains open on the host's computer.

To enhance your computer's performance, always close shared files you're not actively using. If you see a dialog box requesting that you close the FileMaker Pro file you're accessing as a client, comply immediately. The host may be trying to perform important maintenance.