Chapter 10 -- Remote Control of Client Systems

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Chapter 10

As most of us know from experience, many computer-related problems can be solved only through a hands-on approach. We have to see the error message displayed, or re-create the scenario that caused a crash, or watch the user perform a task. So it is no surprise that being able to remotely control client systems appeals to the typical administrator. Tools that provide remote access and diagnostic abilities have actually been around for a while. Some are built into existing tools, such as User Manager For Domains in Microsoft Windows NT, which allows the administrator to connect to a different domain for which permission has been granted to administer accounts. Some tools are separate applications that provide a broader scope of functionality.

Remote control has long been a key feature of Microsoft Systems Management Server (SMS) and has been enhanced in SMS 2.0 with Service Pack 1 applied. With SMS 2.0's Remote Tools, the SMS administrator can remotely diagnose a client, start and stop services, view the user's desktop, run programs, transfer files, and specify how much control to allow the user over the session. The user also can be given the ability to determine who can access the client and what remote functions are made available.

In this chapter, you'll learn about the remote control tools available with SMS 2.0 and how to use them. We'll look at the configuration of remote control for the client, including system requirements, protocol considerations, and configuring the remote options at the client system. Then we'll take a look at the Remote Tools installation process itself and how to monitor status of the remote client and network performance. Last, we'll explore several Microsoft BackOffice 4.5 Resource Kit utilities and look at some troubleshooting issues.