Site Types

A site as a group of particular computers is uniquely defined by:

• Value range(s) for certain characteristics. A computer with a value within the range specified for a site is automatically assigned to that site.
• Site type. The type can accept one of three possible values: LAN, remote or offline.
  • LAN Site
    Managed computers, which are directly connected to the network (via a powerful connection). Typically, in LAN sites, the repository with the accompanying package files is located in the network, i.e. on a depot.
  • Remote Site
    For managed computers that connect to the network via a slow link. Through the remote site, the client accesses a small repository containing particular. e.g. customi­zation scripts or updates. The package files of this repository can be made available in compressed form in order to reduce installation time.
  • Offline Site
    For managed computers working offline. In offline mode, the package files, the repository and the required DSM Program files reside either locally on the hard disk or on CD.

The three site types meet the differing requirements of managed computers connected directly to the LAN, managed computers accessing the company network via a WAN line, and managed computers working offline. Depending on how a particular computer accesses the network, it should be assigned to a site of the appropriate type.

With the site definition, you define the primary site for a managed computer; this is the site which "fits" the computers according to the site definition and to which the computer is assigned at startup time. The site definitions of the different sites must not overlap in order to keep the site assignment unique.
The DSM Management Services check the network status (online – direct access, online via RAS or offline) only if the computer is assigned to more than one site definition. Otherwise, the DSM Client assumes that the network status corresponds with the site type.