Computer lab

[u2duttydread]

Hi All,

I am trying to set up a computer lab. The company already have a domain, but I would like to separate the computers in the lab from the others to better manage them. I would also like a software similar to what is use in some internet cafe where when they log of the computer return to its original state. What do you suggest.

Also which is the best network monitoring tool.



Thanks

[RZA]

1. If ur using Windows O/S on the client systems then what you want to return the computer to a previous state when the user logs off is "Windows Steady State"
2. Monitoring Tools are in abundance you just have to see what works for you but you can start with SpiceWorks or OpManage
3. If you wanna separate the networks then what u need are VLANs but u'll need a switch or router with the capability

[lovepython]

I used steady state back iin 08 but i didn't like it. The issue i had with it was that once an update was downloaded and installed it forced a restart without any warnings. So in a middle of a class the machines would just restart. I'm not sure if they have corrected that issue or given an option to control updates. I guess you could always do a full update and then turn auto update off.

A simple way to isolate the 2 networks apart from vlans is to install a router like smoothwall and then put the labs on a different subnet from the main network

[u2duttydread]

thank for the guidance. I will explore those options.