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<< Click to Display Table of Contents >> Navigation: MLS 2026 Installation and System Setup > Installation - Server and Clients |
MLS 2026 is normally installed in a multi-computer environment. Most businesses use several workstations for different tasks, such as service writing, inventory, accounting, scheduling, and management.
One computer must hold the main data files. This computer is known as the:
👉 Server
The other computers run the working program used by employees. These computers are known as:
👉 Clients or Workstations
The server must be installed first.
MLS 2026 uses two separate installation files.
The server installation file is:
MLS2026s.exe
This installs the server-side files into:
MLS2026s
The server folder contains:
•the main program data structure
•the Data subfolder
•support folders
•shared system files
•server utilities
•the automatic updater service
The automatic updater is installed as a Windows system service and handles background processing, updates, and other automated tasks.
The client installation file is:
MLS2026c.exe
This is installed on each workstation and creates the local client folder:
MLS2026c
The client software is used for:
•data entry
•workorder processing
•reports
•accounting access
•inventory activity
•client and service unit management
•daily program operation
Each workstation that uses MLS 2026 should have the client software installed.
Some existing installations may still use older folder names, such as:
MLS12s
MLS12c
These installations may continue to work properly when the correct MLS 2026 executables and related files are installed within the existing structure.
This allows legacy systems to be updated without requiring unnecessary restructuring of working installations.
The server stores the primary MLS 2026 data files.
It may also contain:
•setup utilities
•update services
•shared documentation
•system maintenance tools
•data management utilities
In smaller shops, the server may also be used as a workstation. However, for best reliability, the server should have light daily use and should not be used for unrelated activity.
The client workstations are used for normal daily work.
This includes:
•creating workorders
•entering clients and service units
•posting inventory
•running reports
•processing accounting
•scheduling appointments
•accessing utilities
The workstation software connects to the server data location through the local network.
The standard installation operates in Local Server mode.
In this configuration:
•data files are stored on the server
•workstations access the data across the network
•Windows file sharing is used
•processing is handled through the workstation and network connection
This works well for many small shop environments.
Local Server mode is generally best suited for smaller workgroups with a limited number of workstations.
A Client Server configuration uses dedicated database server software to process data requests directly on the server.
This type of system can provide:
•improved performance
•stronger multi-user reliability
•reduced workstation workload
•better data handling in larger installations
Earlier versions of MLS supported the Advantage Database Server. However, that product has been discontinued by its publisher and is no longer sold for new installations.
MasterLink Software continues to evaluate replacement client-server options for future development.
The server installation includes the MLS 2026 Data Manager.
Data Manager is used for:
•initial file creation
•file maintenance
•authorization updates
•indexing
•setup defaults
•direct file utilities
•downloading approved updates
•system maintenance tasks
Most users will not use Data Manager every day, but it is an important administrative tool for installation, maintenance, and support.
MasterLink Software can perform the full installation online as part of your subscription service.
This is often the best option because installation involves:
•server setup
•workstation setup
•shared folder configuration
•path assignment
•update service installation
•permissions review
•initial testing
Step-by-step installation procedures are provided in the following pages of this manual.
The server must be installed before any client workstations are configured.
Recommended order:
1.Install the MLS 2026 server software
2.Confirm the server folder and data folders are present
3.Configure sharing and permissions
4.Install the MLS 2026 client software on each workstation
5.Point each workstation to the server data location
6.Test access from each workstation
7.Confirm the automatic updater service is running
Following this order will prevent most installation problems.