Advice on Tools for Server 2003/AD monitoring, maintenance, management?

XiZiT

Senior member
Feb 19, 2002
254
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0
Hey guys I recently setup a domain controller server for my own company and we are busy hiring employees. We have 15 client PCs (15 employees) and as a Systems Admin, I'd like to setup group policies and install network analyzing tools to help me place restrictions on clients (no cpanel, etc.) but I'd also want to make sure that no one is leeching too much of our bandwidth. I'm pretty much learning on the go and have stumbled across some interesting tools from companies like ManageEngine ("Desktop Central") and Desktop Standard ("Policy Maker"). I would like to learn Active Directory and GPOs eventually but for now I'd prefer a program thatmakes it easier. Can anyone recommend any admin-related tools?

I would appreciate it extremely -- and if business does good in a year, I'll send you a check or cookies ;)
 

nweaver

Diamond Member
Jan 21, 2001
6,813
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your subject line says network tools, your post talks about GPO's on AD. Which do you want?

for the network, I use Ethereal, MRTG, NTOP, nagios, etc
 

Tsaico

Platinum Member
Oct 21, 2000
2,669
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I have used Script Logic's Desktop Authority. It handles a wide variety of stuff, from GPO to scripts, to adding printer's, reg keys, and also has a remote desktop function. It is in the middle range of price. Overall I like it, but it won't help you learn how to do GPO and it actually handles everything via registry edits, so an active GPO can override all your settings. If you use this product, it is best to have just the default one active, and then let script logic handle everything else, like profile setup, Office settings, and the whatnot.

They have an evaluation version if you would like, works well for what it is and is was worth it at the time when I used it.

But also, I agree, you should change your title, I was thinking of network tools like scanners and or network physical testers.