Article ID: 938112 - Last Review: June 25, 2007 - Revision: 1.2

When you try to connect to a DFS root shared folder from a client computer that is running Windows XP, the client computer cannot recognize a DFS link

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Important This article contains information about how to modify the registry. Make sure that you back up the registry before you modify it. Make sure that you know how to restore the registry if a problem occurs. For more information about how to back up, restore, and modify the registry, click the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:
256986  (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/256986/ ) Description of the Microsoft Windows registry
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SYMPTOMS

Consider the following scenario:
  • On a Microsoft Windows XP-based client computer, you map a drive to a shared folder on a server.
  • You configure the mapped drive to use the Reconnect at logon option.
  • You delete the shared folder on the server.
  • You create a stand-alone Distributed File System (DFS) root on the server. The DFS root has the same name as the shared folder that you delete.
  • You map the drive to the DFS root on the client computer.
  • You create a DFS link in the DFS root.
In this scenario, when you try to connect to the DSF root, the client computer cannot recognize the DFS link. Additionally, the DFS tab is missing from the Properties dialog box of the DSF root shared folder.
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CAUSE

This problem occurs because the value of the ProviderFlags registry entry is not updated when you perform the following operations:
  • You delete the shared folder.
  • You create a stand-alone DFS root that has the same name as the shared folder that you delete.
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RESOLUTION

Warning Serious problems might occur if you modify the registry incorrectly by using Registry Editor or by using another method. These problems might require that you reinstall the operating system. Microsoft cannot guarantee that these problems can be solved. Modify the registry at your own risk.

To resolve this problem, use one of the following methods.

Method 1

Disconnect the mapped drive, and then reconnect the mapped drive.

Method 2

Update the value of the ProviderFlags registry entry. To do this, follow these steps:
  1. Click Start, click Run, type regedit, and then click OK.
  2. Locate the following registry subkey:
    HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Network\<Mapped drive letter>
    Note The <Mapped drive letter> placeholder represents the mapped drive.
  3. In the details pane, right-click ProviderFlags, and then click Modify.
  4. In the Value data box, type 1, and then click OK.
  5. Exit Registry Editor.
  6. Log off the computer, and then log on to the computer.
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APPLIES TO
  • Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
  • Microsoft Windows XP Professional
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Keywords: 
kbexpertiseinter kbtshoot kbprb KB938112
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