This post is really for my own reference, I might add links later.
On a "managed" Windows network, little effort is required to perform routine administrative tasks. Some tasks are automated. Software installers are preconfigured. Here are some thoughts I have about what helps make a good small office network.
Windows 2000+ domain controller
- Really only needed in an office with 10+ users.
- A domain controller means user accounts are centrally managed.
- Settings on client computers can also be managed via Group Policy, which is another big time saver.
- Some software can be automatically installed using Group Policy.
Roaming profiles
- Maintaining a standard profile saves time setting up a new user because many settings are already configured when the user logs in.
- Allows a user to sit down at any computer and log in to her desktop environment. That means desktop, My Documents, desktop background and other settings.
- If Outlook is being used for email, the .pst file can be redirected to a file share, so a user's email is also available at any station.
- Effectively backs up the user's profile each time they log off.
- If users actually "roam", then a standard desktop OS is best. Users can roam between Windows 2000 and Windows XP without too much difficulty.
Home directory
- The user's "home" on the file server. A personal folder where the user can keep files secure in the knowledge that they will be backed up at night.
- "My Documents" and other folders can be redirected to this or another location with Group Policy, providing some of the utility of Roaming Profiles.
Software Update Services (SUS)
- Deploys Windows updates to clients on the network, but only those updates you approve.
- Free download from Microsoft.
- Soon to be replaced by Windows Update Services, which can also deploy Office Updates.
Microsoft Office Administrative Installation Point
- Allows Office updates to be automatically deployed to multiple workstations.
- Configuration of Office can be centrally managed, including settings and components installed.
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