Mac OS Server 10.2 comes with NetBoot feature, enabling computers on a network to boot from a server-based disk image, offering convenient centralized management.
One important thing to note is that early NetBoot capable Macintoshes will not be able to use the feature of obtaining IP addresses from a DHCP server. However, newer Macintoshes are all NetBoot capable, although some will need the latest Open Firmware Update to use DHCP. This update can be easily obtained from www.apple.com/support.
It is recommended that you run the proper Update on all Macintoshes you plan to use for NetBoot to ensure that they are fully compatible with the software. Additionally, you should refer to the Admin Guide.pdf on the Mac OS X Server CD for more detailed information about this new feature of NetBoot and for the system requirements for your NetBoot client machines.
To ensure that you have the necessary modifications for the newer NetBoot features, you must install the NetBoot client image provided on this CD. Earlier or updated versions will not have the necessary modifications, which can cause a range of compatibility issues.
The NetBoot client image also comes with a default user that allows you to get to the finder when a Macintosh Manager Server can't be found. The default user name is NBUser, with the password netboot. This makes it easy to troubleshoot any issues that might arise, ensuring that you can get back to work as smoothly and efficiently as possible.