Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
AutoClient Configuration
An
AutoClient
is similar to a diskless client, except that it has a limited
amount of local storage space (must have at least 100MB) that is used for a
specific purpose. Like the diskless client, the AutoClient must remotely
access its root (
/
) and
/usr
file systems from an OS server configured as an
AutoClient server. Unlike the diskless client, the AutoClient uses local disk
space to store or cache the root (
/
) and
/usr
file systems.
In addition, the local hard disk is used for swap space. Like the diskless con-
figuration, the OS server provides hard disk space for the
/home
and
/var
file
systems that are unique to each diskless client.
Compared to the diskless configuration, the AutoClient configuration is
somewhat more expensive because its client requires a hard disk, but the hard
disk is small. Like the diskless configuration, only one copy of common files
is required, and this is shared among the clients. In addition, all data unique
to each client is stored on an OS server, simplifying backup and restore pro-
cedures. Thus, in terms of client hardware, AutoClients, like diskless clients,
can be replaced or upgraded easily.
The disadvantages of the diskless configuration are reduced and in some
cases eliminated by the AutoClient configuration. After the AutoClient has
cached the operating system, it no longer requires access to the OS server for
those files. In addition, the local swap space eliminates a significant portion
of the network load.
Comparison of Configurations
Table 10.7 lists the significant differences among the various system config-
urations supported in the Solaris 9 network environment.
Table 10.7 A Comparison of System Configurations
System Type
Local Swap
Local File Systems
Remote File Systems
Standalone
Yes
root, /usr, /var, None
/export/home
Diskless client
No
None
root, /usr,/var, /home
AutoClient
Yes
root, /usr
/var, /home
Standalone systems that function as servers typically provide file systems—
such as
/export/root
,
/export/home
, and
/export/swap
—that are used to
store the files that are remotely accessed by diskless clients and AutoClients.
In addition, servers and standalone systems provide the
/opt
file system for
storing application software.
