[ILUG] Linux@Work - kickstart

[kevin.lyda at itg.ie]

for various reasons we need to set up end user linux boxes in bulk.
essentially they need access to the web based management servers
and to email, so linux is a perfect fit.  no virus worries, no
crash worries (c'mon mozilla), no "i deleted c:/windows" worries.

i'm learning about kickstart to automate installation of helpdesk
workstations (as well as our various servers).  i've used solaris's
jumpstart in the past and found it wonderful.  while i won't be offering
a tutorial here, i will point you to an article that i think (though
practice will tell) answers all your kickstart questions and more:

http://www.linuxworld.com/linuxworld/lw-1999-11/lw-11-kickstart.html

the idea is that a single floppy and a server with the redhat cd
(or iso image) plus extra stuff you want is all it takes to install
a system.  no clicks or keystrokes, just slap in the disk and press
power on.

so when you're all done debating what to call it, this might save some
time in actually installing it...

kevin, working towards world domination

ps  want to take part in the linux revolution?  please send email to
    kevin.lyda at itg.ie or cmac at clubi.ie to discuss development (perl,
    MySQL, C, shell, linux) or sysadmin (linux, various UNIX, and one
    or two NT boxes despised with a passion) positions today.