WAN Server File Replication (Urgent)

[aldrag]

Scenario...

1 Windows Server 2003 R2 in the United Kingdom.

1 Windows Server 2003 R2 in the United States.

Connected via VPN.

We wanted to basically (Constantly update, or copy) file changes in two specific folders between these two servers.

So if a user in the UK adds a file called help.doc into a shared folder called "Company", then this file would be copied to a folder called "Company" on the US server.

We "thought" DFS would be able to accomplish this, but now it seems our understanding of the service isnt as we had expected.

We basically have a SQL Database, and this database is used for data which is updated from one of these folders. We wanted to replicate both the SQL Database (Possible) and the files and file structures to the hard drive in the US.

Basically we want the server to Mirror each other like a mirrored drive would do, only we just want to mirror two folders and a database.

But its becoming a big fear that this isnt going to happen, as DFS doesnt sound like its up to the job, and I dont really even understand what the heck it does, plus the fact that it said that its replication can be inconsistent and isnt recommended for long connections.

We have an office in the US going live in less than a week and this server needs to be ready to go by this weekend, otherwise we are completely stuffed. If this replication process isnt possible then there is absolutely no way we can actually accomplish having an extension of our company outside of our building.

Please if anyone has any information in this area let me know.

Thanks

Jeremy

[fizban2]

what kind of WAN link do you have between the 2 offices?

[aldrag]

We assumed it would be VPN, we have both machines here in one building at the moment for testing purposes. We also have two broadband lines to carry out the testing.

But to be honest what ever can make it possible im all for at the moment.

Edited October 24, 2007 by aldrag

[cluberti]

Technically, DFS should be able to do this for you if both servers are on the same domain structure - the article linked below is specific to RIS, but it can be generalized for any and all DFS replication schemes. I'm not sure what you mean by DFS not meeting your needs, as what you specify (folder replication between hosts) is exacly what DFS is for. Perhaps I'm missing some tidbit of info about what you're replicating (I'm assuming you aren't going to be using DFS to replicate the SQL database, but only files in folders):

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/273594

[fizban2]

if possible look into Updating the boxes to 2003 R2, And use the New DFS Replication.

http://www.windowsnetworking.com/articles_...eplication.html