What Is File Replication Service (FRS)?
When you've got a system that works, it's tempting to keep it around. If your system isn't working, it's time to try something new. That's why Distributed File System Replication Service (DFSR) has replaced File Replication Service (FRS) in Windows Server environments. What is FRS? Microsoft Windows Server's feature allows you to replicate your SYSVOL directory from one server to another. It was designed for use in networks with a small number of servers and users. Still, it needs to be better-suited for enterprise-level networks where many clients connect and access the information on a single server. FRS has been around for almost 20 years since Windows NT Server 4.0, so why is DFSR being used instead? The answer is simple: speed! DFSR allows you to configure replication schedules that are more appropriate for today's networked environment, as well as allowing you to control which files get replicated and how frequently they're updated. The FRS service is the Group Policy and logon script sharing service. It's a good thing, too, because if you had to share those files alone, you'd be disbursing much time in the car. With FRS, you can simultaneously push out changes to your Group Policies and logon scripts to all your domain controllers with a straightforward command. Then if you decide it's time to update them again… well, who needs sleep? Just run your script once more, and you're done! With FRS, it doesn't matter how many domain controllers you have. You can keep them synchronized so everyone can access the latest file version. Have more than one office? No problem! Just set up another FRS server in each location and let them do the heavy lifting while you sit back and relax (or maybe go ahead and take that nap).
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