The Managed Network

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.