Introduction
to SolarisTM Web Start Flash
John S. Howard
The Solaris 8 Operating Environment (OE) 4/01 release introduced
the Solaris Web Start Flash extensions to the JumpStart framework.
Web Start Flash extends the JumpStart framework by adding the mechanism
to create a Flash archive, a system snapshot of the Solaris OE and
all installed software, from a master machine. This archive can
then be used to rapidly install client systems; this installation
client may be any hardware platform capable of running the Solaris
OE, including those hardware platforms typically referred to as
"servers".
This article will explain how to identify the master machine as
well as provide recommendations and examples of creating and administering
Flash archives. This article assumes the reader has an understanding
of basic Solaris OE or UNIX systems administration skills and a
basic understanding of JumpStart technology and the Solaris OE installation
procedure.
The JumpStart Framework
JumpStart technology is Sun Microsystems' mechanism for controlling,
performing, and automating network-based installations of the Solaris
OE. The JumpStart framework provides a mechanism to help automate
and control installation of the Solaris OE. By automating installation
of the Solaris OE, the chances for human error or configuration
errors during installation may be greatly reduced. This also helps
ensure the consistency of system installation and adherence to site-standards
throughout your data center, as well as providing documentation
as to exactly how the system was installed.
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