Re: Log Off VS Restart

Tech-Archive recommends: Repair Windows Errors & Optimize Windows Performance

A few things. First, why would one want to RESTART at the end of the day? I
am going to assume the question would be "Should I log off or SHUTDOWN at
the end of the day". Just guessing.

In any case, logging off (in it's simplicity) closes network connections,
updates the registry hive HKCU, closes open programs etc. In addition, NTLSA
(NT Local Security Authenticator) causes the Kernel to wait for the
CTRL-ALT-DEL combination to allow someone to Log on and be authenticated. In
addition to starting services and system apps.

Shutting down (or restarting) essentially does the same thing, in addition
to starting an entire new Windows Environment. However, certain events will
not occur, such as starting user sessions for things like Anti-viral (spam
etc) applicaitons, Office type startup apps (such as Fast Finders etc).

When a user is logged off, the system is still "Seeable" on the network. As
such, a would be hacker could use tools to probe the machine (such as
netstat, nbtstat etc). These type tools can reveal much about the system for
example, the Domain/Workgroup, what ports are open on the system, user
credentials etc. Having that said, when a user is logged on, the same
information can be probed anyway.

I think one of the answers would be "What is the companies security
requirements?". If security is (and it should be) an issue, then Shutting
Down would be the better option. This would be (from a security concern) the
same as "Unplugging from the network". Albiet this is a lame and simple
analogy, but I think the point is made.

I realize that this is rather vague, but there are many other types of
issues that could be dicussed and then we would have to start writing
novells.

Cheers,

Wiley.

"xrees" <lkandia@xxxxxxxxx> wrote in message
news:1152630992.271894.4270@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
A simple question. Varied answers I'm sure.
A client recently asked

Should we "Log Off" or "Restart" at the end of the day.

Which is better?
And why?

Log Off
1. Gets you out of all the programs you were working in, shutting down
any data access to email, documents etc. so that backups can perform
without running into "open files".
2. Shuts down any applications that were run on LOGIN.

Restart
1. Same as Log Off PLUS
2. Clears the Page File?
3. Clears RAM

What about electrical surges? Does a restart actually cut power
temporarily to hard drives, MB, etc. ? Ie is there more wear and tear
on a workstation performing daily RESTARTS as opposed to daily LOGINS
and LOGOFFS?

TIA
Luke



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