BCX Network Management Tools Components Overview

Server

The server service is a process that runs on a Windows Server. It provides shortcuts, packages, printers and wallpapers to end-users on workstations or Remote Desktop Services servers. It is configured using the manager to create deployments of each type based on a user and/or station assignment. The server service will also synchronise its own copy of Active Directory to match users and computers. To keep this process quick and clean it requires a top level Organisational Unit for users and stations independently. These details are stored within a Microsoft SQL database. When a user logs on to a client machine with the client service installed, it will negotiate with the server which will query the database to find the appropriate resources to distribute.

Manager

The manager is used to configure the resources that are distributed by the server to the client. It can also be used to manage the stations and users in several ways similar to Active Directory Users and Computers but with many more features. The manager can be ran on any domain joined workstation or server, with or without the client service installed.

Client

Resources can be deployed to users and workstations on an OU, security group or individual object basis to give fully granular targeting.

Shortcuts

Shortcuts are deployed on a user and station basis from the server. They are usually written directly to the C:\Users\User\Desktop folder and write access is removed for the user. Redirected folders are supported, but the user retains access to write to the folder which is useful for staff stations. An additional GPO is required to hide the common programs on the station to allow for a consistent user experience.

Packages

Packages are deployed on a station only basis from the server. They are installed using the local SYSTEM account for the station. This means that a central packages location is used with security permissions added for Domain Computer accounts to facilitate this. Packages can range from a simple MSI to a fully scripted install of more complex software that requires prerequisites.

Printers

Printers are deployed on a user and station basis from the server. Any printer that you can add through a windows share using the Add Printer wizard or Group Policy can be deployed using Burconix Management Tools. Printers that are listed in directory can be deployed via the Management Tools with simply a couple of clicks.

Wallpaper

Wallpapers are deployed on a user and station basis from the server. Each wallpaper is generated dynamically to include text or image overlays. Wallpapers are stored in the SQL database in binary format so no special file access requirements are needed.

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