How to connect a second computer to Dealer Garage with Pro

Before you start

You need the Pro plan ($149 once). Choose a main computer that stays on during opening hours, ideally on a wired network, and back it up.

All computers must be on the same office network.

Steps

1. Install Dealer Garage on the main computer and activate Pro.
2. Create a seat key for each extra machine and note which person gets which key.
3. Install Dealer Garage on each staff computer.
4. Enter the seat key on each; the app connects to the main computer.
5. Create named logins and roles for staff so each person has the right access.
6. Test by changing a vehicle on one computer and checking that it shows on another.

Check that it worked

Two people should be able to work at once without overwriting each other.

If something goes wrong

• A computer cannot connect. Check both are on the same network, the main computer is on and Dealer Garage is running.
• Wrong key. Re-enter the seat key.
• Slow performance. Use a wired connection for the main computer.

What to do next

Read multi-computer Pro and staff roles and logins.

Planning the office network

• Put the main computer on a wired connection if you can.
• Give it a fixed address on your network so staff machines can always find it.
• Keep it on during opening hours and set it not to sleep.
• Back it up daily, since all shared data lives there.
• Keep seat keys with the people who use them.

Roles for staff

Give each person the lowest role that does the job. Admin can do everything, including settings. Sales manager and Salesperson can edit inventory and leads. Reception can view inventory, leads and the calendar. The server enforces these rules, so a reception login cannot change prices even by accident.