How to setup diskless workstations ?

From: Kate Reddick (KReddick_at_purolator.com)
Date: 10/30/03 

Date: Thu, 30 Oct 2003 04:24:23 GMT

Hi All,

For an office using Linux on desktops as well as on file server,
it should be possible to setup the system such that the workstations
do not have any HD. If they could all boot via network from the
file server and work accessing all files (even the OS shell, utils
and user home directories) via NFS, that would have some benefits:

1. Worsktations would run quietly (HD noise can add up badly in a
   tight office with lots of computers)
2. Worsktations would not generate so much heat either
3. Only one system (server) needs to be maintained, kept up to date
   with patches, software upgrades, new installs etc.
4. Only the server needs backup
5. Workstations/desktops switchable, replacable without any effect
   on people's ability to work (as long as there are some spare ones)
6. Lower cost of desktop systems (HD price deducted)

The desktops may need to use some RAM disk for temporary files, logs
(e.g. /var mounted there or possibly even /etc ?)

Is there any documentation about the details how to setup such
an environment ?
How should the server store the variable (hardware dependent)
configurations of the desktops that would normally be in /etc ?
Any pitfalls, reasons why this is not a good idea ?

Thanks for any tips, pointers!

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