Chapter 1. Introduction to SystemImager®

1.1. SystemImager Overview

SystemImager, a component of the System Installation Suite, is software that allows you to install Linux to large numbers of similar machines relatively easily. You can also use it for software distribution, configuration, and operating system updates, in addition to using it to update from one Linux release or version to another. SystemImager can also be used for content management on web servers.

You will find SystemImager most useful in environments where you have large numbers of identical machines, including Internet server farms, high performance clusters, computer labs, or corporate desktop environments where all workstations have the same basic hardware configuration. For more background information on design goals and product development, see "SystemImager Background."

Example 1-1. A typical Cluster or Server Farm