Dell OpenManage Deployment Toolkit Version 4.3 User's Guide

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Deployment Matrix

Depending on the scope, current business needs, network setup, and process, you can select any of the suggested methods of deployment. The following table provides the configuration complexity and the pros and cons of each deployment method.

Table 1. Deployment Method Matrix
Deployment Methods	Complexity	Advantages	Disadvantages
Local deployment (bootable media)	Relatively simple	Necessary if a network connection is not available or is too slow. Can install supported Windows operating systems. Can perform a minimal installation of supported Linux operating systems.	Any change requires the creation of a new bootable media. Limited space on media for some operating system installation files. Deployment tasks must be performed at the individual target system. Media are read-only and requires the creation of a RAMDISK for temporary data storage. Installation time is high.
Remote deployment over a network (bootable Windows PE or Linux media with network stack loaded)	Moderate	Everything is in one place in a network share. Easy to manage — changes have to be made in a single location. Data captured (profiles) can be stored in a network share. Data can be replicated from a network share. Can install supported Windows or Linux operating systems.	Must have network connection. Deployment tasks must be performed at the individual target system. Must locate the appropriate Windows PE or embedded Linux network drivers. Not supported from a mapped NetWare system.
Deployment solution framework from a third‑party vendor	Mixed	DTK can be used in context of third-party deployment solution framework. Third-party deployment solution framework is used as the deployment transport mechanism. Tasks and scripts can be pushed to the target systems.	Must either acquire and learn to use or have an existing third-party deployment solution framework.
PXE boot for Linux	High	Everything is in one place on a network share. Easy to manage — changes have to be made in only in one place. High flexibility for remote deployment. No media required. Faster deployment.	Must have high-speed connectivity to network (LAN). Set up time is longer.

After you have determined which deployment method best suits the needs of your organization, you are ready to begin building the DTK deployment directory structure on a network volume. For instructions on installing the DTK components and populating the deployment directory structure, see Preparing The Script Files .