Re: Debian workstations in a school environment

[Chris Lale <chrislale@untrammelled.co.uk>]

Philippe De Ryck wrote:

> Hello,
>
> I'm a network administrator in a highschool in Belgium. Right now all
> our workstations run Windows. There is however a possibility for me to
> convert some old machines that have quite some trouble running XP
> smoothly to linux. The problem is however that I'm not that experienced
> managing linux workstations.
>
> I've been a linux user for quite some time now (about 3 years) and I
> like debian (and ubuntu). There's however a big difference between my
> computer and public computers at school. I want things as secure as
> possible, and lockdown as tight as possible.
>
> I was wondering if there are any documents (there must be!) available on
> these issues. I know it is possible, I've seen machines that disallow
> console login (only X was allowed) and a whole lot else. I can't seem to
> get much useful out of google ...
>
>
> Hope anyone can help me
>
> Kind regards
>
> Philippe De Ryck
>
>
>  
If you want to run a Debian network, have a look at scolelinux 
http://www.skolelinux.org/portal/product/ . Its Debian-based (though 
using and old kernel IIRC). The installation CD can install a server, a 
client (including thin client), or be used by pupils to install the 
system on their home PC.

If you want to run a network with mixed Linux and Windows clients (using 
Samba), have a look at the ebox plaform http://ebox-platform.com/ . It 
runs on Debian Sarge. Security looks good and everything is managed from 
a simple admin screen. This may suit you better.

I expect that you will want to put a Debian server on your network for 
the Linux clients. This may lead you eventually to replace your Windows 
file servers completely, thus saving money for further investment in Linux!

Good luck.
Chris.