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Sharing files and distributing applications
Shared folder
Any server sharing folders becomes a file server. In small networks this could be the Domain Controller, In larger networks this would be a seperate NAS Server (Network Address Sever)
Typical reasons for shared folders would be
- Shared storage locations
- Users' home folders
- Applications awaiting distribution with a GPO
- Read only policies and company documents
Use the wizard to create a new share
Choose the appropriate security level
Store the MSI packages you intend to deploy
Software Deployment
To deploy software using group policy in Windows the installer must be packaged as an MSI file.
These MSI packages are configured for unattended installation, i.e. all dialogue boxes are scripted with product keys, default installation directory, custom install options. This enables the application to install silently through a GPO
MSI's are created with special tools like WISE
Some Open Source applications are available for download already packaged as MSI files Firefox MSI - Group Policy deployed These packages are made for Windows 2000 with SP3 and Windows 20003
Select the OU or Domain you wish to deploy the application to and create a new GPO
You can install to a computer (Assign) or a user (Publish or Assign)
Publish - This means the application appears in the Add/Remove dialogue and can be installed by the user when they choose
Assign - This means the application will be installed when the workstation next connects to the domain
Further Reading
Setting a users home folder for a domain userWindows-XP-Group-Policy-Windows-2000-Domain-Part1