Win2K Server Network Install

[korpse]

Is there a way to install Windows 2000 Server over a network? I've done this with Linux many times (FTP/HTTP/BootP), but I was wondering if it was possible with Win2K. It would make my life a lot easier! Thanks in advance.

[fair64]

Sure you can install W2K server over the network, here is a little bit of info from the web on it, to find out the total step by step procedure just do a search on the web for windows 2000 server network install.

The Windows files are copied from the distribution CD-ROM into a folder on an existing server. This folder is then shared with the appropriate permissions to allow network access.

If the computer does not have an operating system installed on the hard disk, the installer boots the computer (from a system boot disk that has a network client) and maps a network drive to the share point that holds the Windows files. The program WINNT.EXE is then executed.

If the computer is already running Windows (such as Windows 9x or NT workstation), it can be upgraded to Windows 2000 using the WINNT32.EXE program. The installer boots the computer system using the installing operating system, logs on, then accesses the shared network folder where the install files are located, and runs WINNT32.EXE to either install or upgrade to Windows 2000.

[kannibul]

I think what this person might be wanting is a more in depth answer.
you can use your DHCP scope to point to a bootable image for networkcards that have that kind of function. isntead of a bootdisk, you plug the computer in, and then use the management functionality to boot to the network.
under DHCP options there are sections with bootfile, I am not certain what options you would need, but they are presnt, and may be what you need.

[Student^2]

The resource kit on the 2K CD (\support\tools) has everything you need for the job. Just crack the .cab open and read the docs.