Designing and Planning Platform Integration


Many of today's applications require a platform decision. With more and more lines of business applications written for the Windows platform, Unix platforms need to be able to access those applications. Creating a directory structure, sign-in process, and file sharing services are critical.

Creating a single-sign-on environment is the panacea that most if not all administrators of Unix/Windows environments strive for. With vendors having different versions of LDAP and various levels of RFC compliance, this can be pretty difficult. Synchronizing different versions of LDAP and Active Directory requires some in-depth analysis and planning.

A truly integrated environment is possible with today's tools. By putting aside any preconceptions about the other platform, whether Unix or Windows, administrators and network architects can make the two platforms work together in harmony.

Taking Inventory

One key factor in making the Windows and Unix environments work together is finding out which versions of LDAP, Kerberos, NIS and other components they have in common. Different platform vendors have chosen to adopt at different levels and versions of these Internet standards.

Knowing the location of each of the services and how they interact is crucial to determining the placement of common servers and services.

Client operating systems and versions also play an important role in determining the required services.

Creating an Integration/Migration Plan

Microsoft uses a pretty well thought out and tested methodology for projects called Microsoft Solutions Framework (MSF). A complex undertaking like integrating disparate platforms requires a well thought out road map. The following list describes the high-level steps in an undertaking such as integrating Windows with other LDAP based systems:

  • Evaluate the current state of the company's directory structures.

  • Plan what the new directory structure will provide.

  • Build the lab and test account creation and user authentication.

  • Deploy the directory solution into the production environment.

  • Operate and manage the new directory solution. This step also provides feedback in evaluating future solutions.

Defining the company's business requirements should be part of an initial study. Administrative resources should always be considered . Your company might have to invest in either twice the number of administrators or administrators with twice the knowledge.



Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Insider Solutions
Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Insider Solutions
ISBN: 0672326094
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2003
Pages: 325

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