11.1 Chapter Objectives

• Create organized login procedures

• Minimize login time

• Develop a simple menu system

11.2 Introduction

Login command procedures (or scripts) are files consisting of DCL commands that are executed during the login process. The purpose of these procedures is to customize a user s environment to facilitate a simpler user interface. Not all users have the same requirements, so you may need to establish several levels of login procedures. For example, you may need to establish a systemwide login procedure that everyone executes, a group login procedure for each major user group, and a user login procedure for each user. If you maintain an OpenVMS cluster, you may need to establish system login procedures for each cluster member.

Normally, after login procedures execute, users receive the DCL prompt and can enter DCL commands until they log out. If you have users who are unfamiliar with DCL, you can establish a login procedure that provides a menu interface with DCL. You may want to restrict access to DCL altogether by creating a captive login procedure.

Login procedures usually define symbols, logical names, and keys strokes that allow users to access their applications easily. When login procedures fail, users may not be able to access their applications. Therefore, you must be extremely careful to test changes whenever you modify login procedures.

11.3 Login Sequence

Login procedures are executed immediately after a user enters a valid username and password combination. The following steps are followed for each interactive login:

1. The...