Distributions/Configurations For Specific Uses?

Page writes "My college (UMPI) is currently reviewing a proposal to collect old hardware from small businesses and assemble machines for those who do not have a PC. The issue came up as to what linux distro to use that will allow us ease of both setup and ability to lock down the machine so once they are out in the field, they cant be tinkered with by accident (thus preventing problems later). These will be used solely for the purpose of web activities (surfing/mail), and word processing and *THATS IT*. Does anyone have suggestions and an idea about how to go about a standardized (or a sort of embedded) configuration across variable hardware?"

Comments

No, no no.

[Anonymous Coward]

THAT'S IT? No way!

I don't want to help you, because I think everyone should be able to play Xkobo.

Linux is wrong way to go.

[foo fighter]

Given your new used computers are running at least a Pentium 133, have 64 MB RAM and a 2GB hard disk:

1. Pirate a copy of Windows 2000.
2. Install it on the first computer using the NTFS file system. Install your pirated copy of Office 2000.
3. Change the permissions on C:\, making sure permissions are inherited by child objects:
4. 
   
   • SYSTEM: Full Control
   • CREATOR OWNER: Full Control
   • Administrators: Full Control
   • Authenticated Users: Read & Execute, Read, List
   
   
   
5. Use Computer Management administration tool to create a new user who is a member of Users group. Use Users and Passwords control panel to automatically log that user into the system.
6. Use sysprep to image this disk to the rest of the computers.
7. Bonus points if you pirate Windows 2000 Server, set up a simple Active Directory, and control group policy for the systems from there.

Linux is horrible for centralized administration and locking down the desktop. My way you don't have to network anything which saves time and money. You don't have to worry about someone stealing the CD you are booting from. And since you are pirating the software Microsoft doesn't get any money.

Despite the naysayers, Windows 2000 runs great on a P133 with 64 megs o' ram, especially when all you are doing is word processing or surfing the Internet.

NIST has a great guide for securely configuring a Windows 2000 workstation. It takes you step by step through each of the items you will need to configure. If you want to get a bit more jiggy than my 6 point solution above, check this out: http://csrc.nist.gov/itsec/download_W2Kpro.html