Using OS X Server to Unify Business Computers

[bennycostello]

Hello!

I began working at a small business with 1 iMac, over a year later, we've expanded to include over 13 Mac computers. In the beginning, it was semi-easy keeping track of our files, but now that we've expanded to many locations, it's becoming increasingly difficult to keep everything in sync.

At school, regardless of which computer I'm on in the entire building, when I log on using my school-issued ID number, my files and desktop are identical everywhere. This is what I'd like to do for my business setup.

I'm not a big Dropbox fan, and I'd REALLY prefer to use OS X server. The only issue is that I have NO IDEA how to use the software.

Simply put, I'd like to be able to log into iMac 1, drag a file to the desktop, log into iMac 13, and see the exact file in the same exact location from iMac 1. I want instant, seamless unification of all computers in the network.

I'm thinking that, and correct me if I'm wrong, we can purchase a Mac Mini server and have all of the other computers in the company pull information and sync through this one central Mac Mini server. Does this sound right as far as hardware goes?

Also, we're looking into purchasing Apple Remote Desktop to aid us in remote management.

Any help to us is truly valuable. Thank you!

 

[adn.]

you could do that osx server. I'm not sure how familiar you are with servers, theres a thing called open directory on the server where you create and store all the users that you will have at the company. When you create the accounts, you can choose to store the user folders on the server. This will allow you to log into each Mac and see the same desktop, etc.. because the data is stored on the server rather than the local PC's. This works pretty well if people will be constantly switching stations. Also, in the event one of the macs break down, it's a lot easier to switch it out and not have to worry about data on that machine.