Reconnecting the Network

Question

Hi All,
First off, I'm new to OS X Server. That being said, I've been put in charge of maintaining a web server running OS X 10.3 for a small academic organization. Setting up basic services like SFTP/SSH/Web have been pretty straight-forward.
I'd like to use the server for more than just a web server. The organization has about 6 Macs that are not connected to the server in any meaningful way. Each is a stand alone iMac with its own set of users and logins and no network file sharing. Also, there is no internal network cabling structure for the server, all computers access the internet via the University in a similar manner.
My first question: What services would I need to set up for a centralized user account system and how do I configure workstations to require this authentication to login? For example, lets say I create an account John on the server. Once created, the user would then be able to login to any of the workstations with the same login and password. Moreover, John's personal documents and files would be available regardless of which computer he logged into.
Second question: Could this be accomplished without rewiring the cables? Do the computers need to be a on tight network, or one in which internet is provided by the main server, in order for this to work properly?

Answer 1

Hi All,
First off, I'm new to OS X Server. That being said,
I've been put in charge of maintaining a web server
running OS X 10.3 for a small academic organization.
Setting up basic services like SFTP/SSH/Web have
been pretty straight-forward.
I'd like to use the server for more than just a web
server. The organization has about 6 Macs that are
not connected to the server in any meaningful way.
Each is a stand alone iMac with its own set of users
and logins and no network file sharing. Also, there
is no internal network cabling structure for the
server, all computers access the internet via the
University in a similar manner.
My first question: What services would I need to set
up for a centralized user account system and how do I
configure workstations to require this authentication
to login?
you need to set the server as a directory master, via Server Admin, Open Directory. Then use WorkGroup Manager to add users, groups and computers. To connect the client use Directory Access and the ldap plugin to bind to the server.
Then use the standard login.
For example, lets say I create an account
John on the server. Once created, the user would
then be able to login to any of the workstations with
the same login and password. Moreover, John's
personal documents and files would be available
regardless of which computer he logged into.
The home areas will then need to be setup as network folders on an afp server.
Second question: Could this be accomplished without
rewiring the cables? Do the computers need to be a
on tight network, or one in which internet is
provided by the main server, in order for this to
work properly?
Shouldnt need any rewiring.
Read the manuals