Chapter 7. Managing Desktops

In this Chapter

Automating Backup of Desktop Data

Accelerating Deployments with Workstation Images

Creating Windows XP Images

Automating Software Installation

Slow Link Detection

Ensuring a Secured Managed Configuration

Managing Systems and Configurations

Leveraging Useful Tools for Managing Desktops

BEST PRACTICES

Answer Files

Managing an Administrator Workstation

Managing desktops can be simplified using some of the tools and services available in Windows Server 2003 and XP Workstation Professional. However, desktop administrators still need to understand the different aspects of desktop administration, including maintenance tasks and administrative functions. Windows Server 2003 provides administrators the capability to select the appropriate method of administration to reduce or automate repetitive tasks and to provide task scalability to reduce the overall number of workstation visits or issues.

This chapter covers administrative tools and concepts that can be used to ensure data redundancy and facilitate the data restore process. Different scenarios to deploy images of and manage Microsoft Windows XP Professional desktops are discussed. Securing the desktop and deploying security patches are discussed as well. Also, remote administration and remote application installation are detailed in this chapter.