Session Description

In this WebCast, you will learn how you can better manage your network of Mac OS X systems with Network Install. This Mac OS X Server technology is designed for system administrators who manage operating system installations and software updates for their organization.

Eric will discuss Network Install. Network Install enables client systems on your network to automatically discover a server-based disk image and install its contents on their hard drive. Network Install can run completely unattended, providing a streamlined installation and upgrade experience for your users. You can also use scripts to invoke specified actions before or after the installation of a software package or system image, such as the installation and configuration of additional software. Network Install is the perfect tool for operating system upgrades, giving you a standardized method for upgrading all your Mac clients to Mac OS X version 10.2, whether from Mac OS 9 or an earlier version of Mac OS X.

Mike will discuss NetRestore. Built on top of the Mac OS X-native, command-line version of Apple Software Restore, NetRestore delivers a fast, easy to use initial deployment solution that can be used in a variety of environments. NetRestore can be used to restore a master disk image to a computer's hard disk while that disk image is hosted locally, on a network via AFP, or on the internet via HTTP.

NetRestore can also be used in conjunction with NetInstall technology to fully automate the deployment of a lab full of machines. The boot process of a NetInstall disk image contains features that are key to the successful deployment of software using Apple Software Restore. By replacing the Installer application that launches during a NetInstall startup with NetRestore, you can experience the speed of block-level restores of a customized disk image to your lab machines.

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