How best to automate client installs on Winnt workstations

[tss1]

I have 100 engineering workstations that I need to convert from Arcserve to TSM. What is the best method for getting the 4.2 client running on these machines? I have seen several posts related to using .bat files with the dsmcutil and others about msiexec, but I am confused on the difference between these methods. I would like to have a "one button push" for these engineers to use. One option I have here is using Netware Application Launcher, but the paperwork involved in getting the software into it is somewhat daunting. Regardless of the method, how do I dynamically get the node/pwd into each setup (we will use the machine name for both)? Thanks.

 

[tsmerian]

TSS,



I think using a .bat file (or .cmd) is the way to go. But you have to use both the Microsoft Installer (msiexec) and dsmcutil to accomplish a complete install. The Microsoft Installer actually installs the program code onto the machine, but it does not install any services. Dsmcutil will take care of installing those for you. So really, the batch file contains the execution of both the Microsoft Installer and dsmcutil.



Hope this helps clear some things up,



Theo Merian

COUNTRY Insurance & Financial Services

 

[jwsnlutz]

you could setup all your nodes in TSM first then there passwords would already be set.

You could use bat files to run the silent installations of the clients onto each workstation that would work as a 'one button' approach with no user interference.



You could also use 3rd party tools , such as wininstall,etc.

If you use an intranet in your office, you could setup an install from a web page!

just some ideas, let me know how you tackle this one, I have done many of these and there are just different methods each time, due to different environments.

 

[iyer_sab]

We use a script to do remote install of TSM clients in our NT/W2K enviroment with almost 300+ servers. I see you had posted this one around 09/17 and not sure if your task is accomplished. However, if you need help with this item, I can share the script.



Thanks.

AJ[email protected]