If you'd like to redirect folders like "My Documents" through local Windows Group Policies, you undoubtedly know that you can't do it. As it says in TID #10078467 "Microsoft has moved "Custom Folders" from Extensible Policies (in Windows 9x and NT 4.0) to "Folder Redirection" in AD Domain Group Policies. ZENworks for Desktops manages local Windows Group Policies, not Active Directory Group Policies."

Here's what Microsoft says about it: "Local Group Policy objects do not support Folder Redirection or Software Installation"

Solution

I have created an ADM template which can be used to enable folder redirection through local Group Policy, as used by ZfD. I have tested this with a customer running ZfD3.2, who uses it to re-direct 'My Documents' (Personal) and Templates.

Here is a quick why and how, and a zip containing the ADM template as well as a REG file that can be used to reset the 'HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\User Shell Folders' to the default (i.e. %USERPROFILE%\....) - useful for administrators who inadvertently change their own settings whilst using the group policy editor!

This policy template allows folder redirection through a local Group Policy, using an administrative template.This can be added to the Group Policy by selecting User Configuration->Administrative Templates; Action->Add/Remove Templates.Add, then specify the path to the HKCUUserShellFolders.adm file (in zip file below).

Important: You need to uncheck "Show Policies Only" (MMC with GP->Local Computer Policy->User Configuration->Administrative Templates->View) to get the options to display N.B. AS THESE DO NOT EXIST UNDER EITHER THE Software\Policies OR Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies REGISTRY SUBKEYS. THEY ARE NOT "True policies" and hence are persistent - take care, especially when editing!!

I have attached a registry file that contains the defaultsettings, so this can be merged once you have edited the settings to getyour own profile back in shape!

The author of this tool takes no responsibility whatsoever for the performance or effects of this tool. Proceed at your own risk.

hkcu_user_shell_folders_default.reg included within the ZIP file.