TABLE OF CONTENTS Now that we have a basis to assist in selecting our hardware, we will turn our attention to select the appropriate method to deploy the hardware and the operating system to support our Citrix MetaFrame Presentation Server 3.0. Platform deployment options include manual installation, unattended or scripted installs, server cloning, and a newer approach called server provisioning. Finally, we will discuss a mixed or hybrid approach that uses the best pieces of these various solutions. Selecting the best platform deployment option for your environment involves a detailed review of the requirements for each with special emphasis on the additional software and engineer expertise required. Most environments may lean heavily on one of the following solutions, but may ultimately be categorized as a hybrid due to the nuances required to integrate into the existing networking environment.
The manual installation method of platform deployment has been around as long as server deployments. It is the tried and true method that we have all used from time to time to build or rebuild servers insert CD, follow on-screen instructions. While this option is the method we are most familiar with, there are certain advantages and disadvantages to using this for platform deployment.
Advantages:
No additional upfront investment in software or hardware
Little additional training required
Allows complete configuration of server hardware and operating system
Disadvantages:
Requires manual configuration All configuration and information is entered by hand, leaving room for human error.
Time consuming This method requires the...
