Client /server alternatives

[caroundw5h]

Hope this isn't a stupid queston.

I'm coding a program that will allow users to modify the contents of a file on a LAN. I'm wondering if i have to use a client/server architecture in order to allow simultaneous access to the file ex: like a sql database. Or is there another way that i don't know about.

I ideally just want to wirte the code using AINSI C with the only external piece being the file itself that the users modify. is this doable with more than 2 ppl trying to access it on the same LAN.

[ober]

It's doable, but why re-invent the wheel?

If you want to allow multiple people to work on the same document, it's not going to work. File permissions will not allow it. You're better off writing to a database and then writing the file out from multiple records.

[caroundw5h]

thanks ober. I guess for the sake of convenience i'll just use the database approach. From a pedantic POV though.
What is the basic idea behind doing it the other way? or will the nature of files just not accept it?
Thanks