Xserve G5 with Mac OS X Server includes Workgroup Manager, a suite of powerful tools for directory-based management of users, computers and groups in your organization. Easy-to-use desktop management capabilities allow you to manage Mac systems from anywhere on the network. You can create standardized desktop configurations; set system preferences; establish password policies; automount home directories and group folders; and control access to hardware, software and network resources.
Because Apple’s directory service architecture uses the open LDAP standard, it offers no-hassle interoperability with your existing database infrastructure. That means you can use the built-in desktop management applications with any LDAP-compatible directory server. They even work with Apple’s legacy NetInfo and other directory technologies, such as Microsoft’s Active Directory.
LDAP provides a common, platform-independent protocol for directory access, enabling you to consolidate information from different platforms and define a single name space for all network resources. By using the same directory for all your network services, you dramatically simplify administration, improve security and reduce troubleshooting and support issues that stem from maintaining disparate directories. You also make it easier on your users, because they don’t have to keep track of multiple usernames and passwords to log in to different systems.
| Desktop Management Features | |
|---|---|
| LDAPv3 directory services architecture | Provides compatibility with any directory server or network services that utilize the open LDAPv3 standard, protecting your investment in standards-based network infrastructure. |
| Open Directory server - Single | Offers a robust, easy-to-configure LDAPv3 solution for organizations that don’t yet have a directory server.
|
| Secure single sign-on | Allows users to log in once, with a single user name and password, and gain authenticated access to all authorized network resources. Single sign on uses the integrated Kerberos authentication authority in Open Directory. |
| Workgroup Manager | Centralizes
management of users, groups and computers on your network, allowing you
to create standardized desktop configurations, set system preferences,
establish password policies and control access to hardware, software
and network resources.
|
| NetBoot | Simplifies
network administration and standardizes desktop configuration by
booting multiple Mac systems from a server-based disk image. You can
update the disk image and deploy it across an entire workgroup in
minutes.
|
| Network Install | Performs
automated software installations across your network — saving time and
eliminating the expense of distributing software on CD.
|
| Network-based home directories | Allow users to log in to any Mac OS X computer on the network and instantly access their own documents, applications, individual settings and complete desktop environment. |
| Macintosh Manager | Provides centralized management capabilities for Mac OS 9 systems on your network. |
