File sharing service fails to start without a user login.

Using a Mac mini as a basic file & print server which is accessed by a variety of other platforms; primarily Windows XP.

Recently, however, the file sharing has stopped running automatically despite the settings all being 'present & correct'.

Platform is run as follows:

- 10.5.8 Leopard (the client and NOT the server version)

- 'headless' i.e. no keyboard, mouse or monitor

- has two active admin accounts (one is root) and a single user account.

- Login is via the welcome screen i.e. no default user/automatic login takes place.

Interestingly, when a default login account is enabled, the file sharing service works fine. However, this is a work around and not a fix so I am really looking to get the file sharing working without having to 'fudge' it this way; please bear in mind when replying.

To add to the frustration, although the file sharing has worked in the past without a hitch in this configuration, I cannot think of any changes made that would hinder this function. Additionally, the print service also runs without a problem without the need to login otherwise.

All help gratefully appreciated.