I have a feeling we will shortly be deploying many Linux servers to perform certain actions. Maybe we will implement Asterisk to be used as a VoIP interchange between locations, maybe the backup servers will be Linux based, maybe the BDCs.
One thing that could speed up implementation at remote sites is to build live cds for certain purposes. For instance, on the file server in PDX to keep updated live cds for certain projects. Like, a BDC live cd or a backup live cd. Already setup with the most current packages (or scripts to fetch+install them). So when we get to the site we just put the CD in, click or type “load” and poof, the server is installed and configured.
These links (haven’t read all of the process) may be helpful:
http://www.linuxjournal.com/article/7233
http://gentoo-wiki.com/HOWTO_build_a_LiveCD_from_scratch
January 26th, 2006 at 8:23 am
Hmm, so are you saying this is useful as a tool for loading new servers, or as a kind of recovery tool?
I’m not sure how many linux servers we will be loading, but I guess it might be useful for when we go to China or Malaysia and install boxes there. You wouldn’t want to pull down an ISO over the wire from there probably ;P
January 26th, 2006 at 8:49 am
Yea, China and Malaysia were my primary thoughts. So instead of having to bring several distros, install htem, download and install and configure packages, fine tune apps, then troubleshoot, you can just bring a live CD, install it, and go have a drink. Also, good way to make sure the machines are setup exactly the same. Just a thought.
January 26th, 2006 at 1:27 pm
No, that totally makes sense. It sounds like a good way to save a lot of time.
January 27th, 2006 at 4:11 am
When’s the trip to China?
January 27th, 2006 at 10:57 am
Well, Kelvin will be in Taiwan by the end of February, and then I will probably be out in Asia in June…so, I’m sure one of us will be making the trip out to the offices out there.