Fast Logon Optimization

Applies To: Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2003 R2, Windows Server 2003 with SP1, Windows Server 2003 with SP2

Fast Logon Optimization

The Fast Logon Optimization feature is set by default for both domain and workgroup members. This results in the asynchronous application of policy when the computer starts up and when the user logs on. This application of policy is similar to a background refresh. It can reduce the length of time it takes for the logon dialog box to appear and the length of time it takes for the desktop to become available to the user.

You can change the default setting by using the Group Policy MMC snap-in. This feature is enabled by default, but you can disable it by using the following policy: Administrative Templates\System\Logon\Always wait for the network at computer startup and logon.

Policies are processed according to the criteria listed in the following table.

Default policy process for clients	At startup	At logon	At policy refresh
Windows 2000	Sync	Sync	Async
Windows Server 2003 family	Sync	Sync	Async
Windows XP Professional and Windows XP 64-bit Edition (Itanium)	Async	Async	Async

Notes

• Logon Optimization will not be enabled and policies will be processed synchronously when a user is logging on for the first time, the user has a roaming profile, the user has a HomeDir, and the user has a logon script specified in the User object. Folder Redirection and Group Policy Software Installation require a synchronous application of policy. Under these conditions, computer startup can still be asynchronous. However, since logon is synchronous, logon does not exhibit optimization.

• Client computers running Windows XP Professional, Windows XP 64-bit Edition (Itanium), and Windows Server 2003 operating systems support Fast Logon Optimization in any domain environment.