Manage my Windows Profile

What is a Windows Profile?

Basically, a roaming profile consists of customized settings for an individual user:

• background colors
• screen saver
• desktop shortcuts
• recently used document links
• software settings (Internet Explorer, MS Office, etc.)
• Start menu locations

Types of Profiles

There are two types of Windows profiles- Local and Roaming. Local profiles are only available on the workstation you are currently logged in to. Roaming profiles are available to you anywhere on the Haas domain and are stored on a server. HCS recommends that Faculty and Staff who normally log into only one workstation use a local profile so that their login will be faster. You can change your profile type by following the instructions for one of the listed platform choices:

Corrupt Roaming Profiles

Your roaming profile may become corrupt if the workstation you are logged into cannot successfully upload the cached profile to the Profile server when you logout. Further attempts to log into the Domain will not load the corrupt profile. If you find that your Roaming Profile might be corrupt, please contact the Haas helpdesk for further assistance.

Profile Tips:

• Avoid creating files or directories on the desktop, these files will be saved in your roaming profile. Store these files in your home directory (H:).
• Monitor your profile quota to insure you will not be over and possibly create further problems with your roaming profile.
• Be sure to log out each day, this will keep your profile up to date.
• Never save data to your profile. Some programs will prompt you to save files in the Windows "Personal" folder, this folder is located in your profile directory. Always save to your local workstation or home directory on the data server (H:).
• Be sure to periodically clear your "Recent Documents" list.

Managing Profile Size:

Using Windows Explorer monitor your Windows Profile Size:

• Use Windows Explorer to manage your Windows Profile

Profile Size How Do I?s:

Windows Profiles Frequently Asked Questions (How Do I?'s)

Questions or problems regarding this web site should be directed to the HCS Helpdesk.
Last modified: July 2003
Last modified by: R. Lozano