Apple Mac OS X Server (Administrator’s Guide) - Manual (Page 53)

Administering Your Server 53
NetBoot can simplify the administration and reduce the support normally associated with
large-scale deployments of network-based Macintosh systems. NetBoot is ideal for an
organization with a number of client computers that need to be identically configured. For
example, NetBoot can be a powerful solution for a data center that needs multiple identically
configured Web and application servers.
NetBoot allows administrators to configure and update client computers instantly by simply
updating a boot image stored on the server. Each image contains the operating system and
application folders for all clients on the server. Any changes made on the server are
automatically reflected on the clients when they reboot. Systems that are compromised or
otherwise altered can be instantly restored simply by rebooting.
See Chapter 12, “NetBoot,” for information about setting up and managing NetBoot.
Network Install
Network Install is a centrally managed installation service that allows administrators to
selectively install, restore, or upgrade client computers. Installation images can contain the
latest release of Mac OS X, a software update, site-licensed or custom applications, even
configuration scripts:
m Network Install is an excellent solution for operating system migrations, installing
software updates and custom software packages, restoring computer classrooms and labs,
and reimaging desktop and portable computers.
m You can define custom installation images for various departments in an organization,
such as marketing, engineering, and sales.
With Network Install you don’t need to insert multiple CDs to configure a system. All the
installation files and packages reside on the server and are installed onto the client computer
at one time. Network Install also includes pre- and post-installation scripts you can use to
invoke actions prior to or after the installation of a software package or system image.
See Chapter 13, “Network Install,” for more information about Network Install.
Network Services
Mac OS X Server includes these network services for helping you manage Internet
communications on your TCP/IP network:
m Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)
m Domain Name System (DNS)
m IP firewall
m Service Location Protocol Directory Agent (SLP DA)