|
LISA 2000 Abstract
Automating Request-based Software Distribution
Christopher Hemmerich, Indiana University
Abstract
Request-based distribution of software applications over a network
is a difficult problem that many organizations face. While several
programs address this issue, many lack features required for more
sophisticated exports, and more complex solutions usually have a very
limited scope. Managing these exports by hand is usually a time
consuming and error-prone task. We were in such a situation when we
developed the Automated Netdist program a year ago.
Automated Netdist provides an automated mechanism for system
administrators to request and receive software exports with an
immediate turnaround. The system provides a simple user interface,
secure authentication, and both user and machine based authentication.
Each of these is configurable on a package-by-package basis for
flexibility.
Netdist is a modular service. The user interface, authentication
and authorization are independent of the export protocol. We are
currently distributing via NFS, but adding an additional protocol is
as simple as writing a script to perform the export and plugging it
into Netdist.
|
Need help? Use our Contacts page.
