Users setup to login Remotely

[itmrvlodge]

Just looking for some advice/clarification.

 

I install and maintain remote security camera and hence have just working knowledge of the Windows server 2008.

I recently visited  an organisation that  has configured all their users in the office  to login through remote desktop into Windows 2008R2 Server. I didn't find the usual domain logon or Active Directory on their server. I asked the IT guy and he told me this configuration is easiest and has low problems. Also when a computer fails all the user has to do is to move to next working computer.

 

My question :

 

a) Is this a efficient configuration ?

b) What does he lose by not using Active Directory ?

 

 

Thanks

[jaclaz]

I guess you will need to provide more details on your current configuration and on the actual *needs* you have if you want to get a suitable answer.

 

There is nothing "usual" in "install and maintain remote security camera", nothing "usual" in having in any way Windows Server 2008 involved in it , and as well nothing "usual" in using (or not using) Active Directory or Remote desktop connection.

 

In any case a third question is missing :

c) What does he gain by not using Active Directory?

 

jaclaz

[itmrvlodge]

Thanks Jaclaz,  these ip security cameras are connected locally to a computer. The computer is used to  monitor and  record movements. This computer forms a part of a bigger network connected to main server (windows 2008). The server does the offsite backup etc. Normally these cameras used around dams, mining sites , forests etc..

 

I would be interested in knowing the answer to the third question ?

[jaclaz]

What OS does the "local" (please read as "remote" ) computer run?

What is the "function" of this PC, just a temporary storage until the data is replicated to the server?

And/or what is the function of the server, only provide a long term storage?

 

If there is (or needs to be) anything *secure* is the actual connection, I cannot really understand what do you mean by "Also when a computer fails all the user has to do is to move to next working computer.".

 

If - say - computer #1 has (say) 9 cameras connected to it (and ONLY to it) if the computer "fails" (whatever "fails" mean, hardware, software, power shortage, WHAT?) you cannot access those 9 cameras, no matter how much you cry or stamp your feet, on the other hand if they are IP cameras you can access them from *any* computer as long as you know the IP and the login details, no matter if that PC is running fine or not.

 

Not enough details/data, with all due respect , you are still in the "I'm ill, Doctor, Help!" phase :

http://homepage.ntlworld.com./jonathan.deboynepollard/FGA/problem-report-standard-litany.html

AND be aware of the risk of slipping on a chocolate covered banana when failing to provide sufficient background info:

http://homepage.ntlworld.com./jonathan.deboynepollard/FGA/put-down-the-chocolate-covered-banana.html

 

jaclaz

[itmrvlodge]

Thanks, Yes I see what you mean.