At present, Windows does not have a hierarchical file system like UNIX. There is also no way to create soft links. As a result, the file systems on Windows hosts cannot be included in the local directory tree, or vice versa.

To enable both systems to access the file systems, you need to install additional software.

This software must meet the following requirements:

• Distinguish between uppercase and lowercase within file names, since file names are case-sensitive under UNIX

• Authentication on the respective system with the LanManager API

• Display contents of directories, independent of how these directories are accessed or referenced

Since the LanManager has a large share of the PC network market, software was developed for UNIX systems to enable them to access LanManager networks. There is now appropriate server software for almost all UNIX dialects. This software allows the UNIX system to appear as the LanManager to the PC.

Many hardware manufacturers offer this type of LanManager software. However, SAP cannot recommend which software you should use. When deciding on a product, make sure that the three requirements listed above are met.

SAP uses the LanManager server SAMBA from Andrew Tridgell, which you can obtain free of charge from the Internet.

The LanManager SAMBA provides the following functions:

• File services are made available. You can access Windows files in exactly the same way as from a UNIX shell.

• Uppercase and lowercase are distinguished within file names.

• You can configure the SAMBA server so that it relies on the authentication of a Windows server at logon.