When deploying Access databases, it’s essential to enforce best practices for both security and performance. One key strategy I follow is ensuring users only run the program from a local location, such as their personal PC or the My Documents folder, rather than directly from a shared server. The program is linked to either a shared database location or an SQL table.
If InStr(1, Application.CurrentProject.Path, "Unique_String_OnYourServerLocation", vbTextCompare) > 0 Then
DoEvents
Me.Repaint
DoCmd.OpenForm "frmCheck", , , , , acDialog
End If
The starting for will check the location where the database has started and if it contains the path to your server folder it will display the frmCheck which will automatically close the database after 20 seconds as shown below.
Deploying Access Databases
- Location Check at Startup
- When the database starts, I implement a check to determine the file’s location.
- If the database is being run from a server location, the program displays a notification to the user explaining why the database cannot open in this environment.
- User Notification Form
- The notification form clearly outlines the reasons for this restriction, such as:
- Preventing multiple users from accessing the database simultaneously, which can lead to corruption.
- Improving performance by avoiding network latency issues.
- This form ensures users understand the importance of running the database locally.
- The notification form clearly outlines the reasons for this restriction, such as:
- Auto-Close Feature
- To enforce this rule, the form is programmed to close the application automatically after 60 seconds if no action is taken. This prevents users from bypassing the restriction.
- To enforce this rule, the form is programmed to close the application automatically after 60 seconds if no action is taken. This prevents users from bypassing the restriction.
Why This Approach Matters
- Improved Stability: Running Access databases locally reduces the risk of file corruption caused by shared network usage.
- Better User Experience: Local execution ensures faster performance, avoiding lags caused by server access.
- Simplified Maintenance: This practice minimizes support issues related to multi-user conflicts or network errors.
By enforcing localized usage and providing clear guidance, this deployment method ensures a smoother, more secure experience for Access database users.