can 2 filemaker client access a single database at the same time using muli-user, i mean. w/o the server?

sorry, just my second week.

thanks,

louie

Yes. The files should reside on the same computer that one of the client copies of FM is on. That copy must open the files first. The second client must open the files using the "hosts" option or the "open remote.." menu item. File sharing should be turned off for the folder where the files are stored in order to prevent the remote client from accessing them directly (which would cause major file corruption).

Also make sure that no copies of the files exist on the second client. If they exist you should either delete or rename them.

Otherwise the second client might open those copies in stead of those served over the network.

FM Server is optimised for hosting the files for imporved performance. However its real bonus is automated backup without needing to down the server or close the hosted files first.