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Introduction

Microsoft has traditionally geared its development of Microsoft BackOffice applications toward providing network administrators with tools that can facilitate the functionality and management of their Microsoft Windows networks. For example, applications such as Microsoft Exchange 2003 and Microsoft SQL Server 2000 provide exceptional mail and database support through centralized management. Microsoft Systems Management Server (SMS) 2003 is just such a product. In this new release you have a superior product that provides centralized management and support for your install base of computers. Those of you who have grown up with SMS will be particularly impressed with the improvements made in this version that enhance the functionality and scalability within large enterprise networks of its predecessor, SMS 2.0.

This book is designed to provide you with both a learning and practical guide to the administrative tasks you’ll be performing with SMS 2003. You’ll find “Real World” examples that illustrate how to apply a concept in a realistic scenario, “Tips,” “Cautions,” and resource suggestions for obtaining more information about a topic. Where appropriate, as SMS 2003 performs a specific function or process, the process flow and its components are outlined, monitoring techniques are suggested, and troubleshooting considerations are highlighted. Many chapters include a “Checkpoints” section, in which potential problem areas are reviewed and new troubleshooting tips are presented.

Part I: Installation, Planning, and Management

Part I introduces the reader to SMS 2003, outlining its features and functionality and comparing and contrasting it to the previous version, SMS 2.0. This part also covers a wide range of topics specific to the installation and planning of an SMS site. Chapter 1, “Overview,” presents an overview of SMS 2003. Chapter 2, “Primary Site Installation,” provides a detailed discussion of the installation process for an SMS primary site, including preinstallation requirements as well as postinstallation system modifications. You’ll also learn how to navigate administrative functions using the SMS Administrator console, which uses the Microsoft Management Console (MMC) format. In Chapter 3, “Configuring Site Server Properties and Site Systems,” you’ll learn how to define and configure the SMS site and site systems. Chapter 4, “Multiple-Site Structures,” suggests planning considerations for a multiple-site structure, including developing parent-child relationships among primary sites, creating secondary sites, and establishing SMS 2003 communication mechanisms between sites. Chapter 5, “Analysis and Troubleshooting Tools,” and Chapter 6, “System Performance and Network Analysis,” introduce the reader to the various tools available in SMS 2003 that enable the administrator to monitor activity in the SMS site, track the flow of information, and analyze network and server performance. These tools will be examined in more detail in subsequent chapters.



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