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A duplicate name exists on the network

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2011 8:46 am
by calvinhunt
Each time I turn on the ward computer this message appears:
Windows - System Error
A duplicate name exists on the network

There is a red button and an OK button. When I click on either the message just goes away. It doesn't tell me which name nor does it take me to a place where I can correct the problem. I have searched for a duplicate name in the list of ward members and can't find one. I went to the "Membership Record Validation Report" and didn't find it there. I have checked with the other ward clerks in the building and the stake clerk. They haven't seen it before. I'm not sure there really is a duplicate name on the network. Any help would be appreciated.

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2011 8:51 am
by johnshaw
That is most likely the name of your computer. In Windows XP you can find this by opening a command prompt and typing

hostname

Do that on all the computers in the building and see if there is one with the same name.

When implementing a new MLS computer the instructions say to rename the computer, this step may not have been completed.

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2011 11:36 am
by russellhltn
Note that the setup instructions found at mls.lds.org are quite specific about how an admin computer should be named. It should contain your unit number. As such, there really shouldn't be another computer anywhere with that name.

Posted: Thu Aug 18, 2011 7:48 am
by calvinhunt
Thanks! I was just recently released after serving 5 years as the 1st counselor in a bishopric. I was immediately called to be the ward clerk. Therefore, I know first hand the need to have the membership records current and accurate. I carefully went through the on-line training for ward clerks. Being older at 66 I don't possess the computer skills of those younger (as is indicated by my question). I thought the duplicate name message referred to the names of ward members on the computer. Your responses makes sense and bring me relief. I'll share your info with the stake computer specialist. I believe this issue belongs to him more than it does to me. Again, thanks so much.