Remote Client Configuration

Hello,

SBS2003, XP clients.

I had an SBS2000 network, but recently installed an SBS2003 box and put the
old one to bed. The new server has the same server and domain names as the
old one did. I was easily able to configure all of the clients for the new
network by running the Network Configuration website on the server
(http://servername.connectcomputer). Now it is time to set up the remote
computers. That is where I am sort of lost. Here is the situation: I have
about 7 mobile users (salesmen) using notebooks. They are currently set up
to log into the old SBS2K network. The use the internet, OutlookXP for
email, and use offline files from departmental folders located on the
server. They connect to the server via VPN. My question is, how can I set
them up on the new network? They connect via slow connections (Verizon
NationalAccess BroadbandAccess). I would think that installing the client
apps (namely Outlook 2003 and firewall client) could not work on such a slow
connection. That said, here is what I was thinking about doing:

1. Have them uninstall the old firewall client.
2. Have them VPN into the new server using their existing VPN connection.
3. Run the Network Configuration website to join their computer to the
domain.
4. Upon restart, have them install Outlook 2003, the new Firewall Client,
and the Connection Manager via a CD I send them.
5. Have them install TrendMicro (oh yeah, they will be using TrendMicro CS)
from the same CD.

Is this the correct way to perform the client setup. I am worried about a
few things:

1. Will the offline files will be gone when the user logs back on?
2. Do they actually need the firewall client if they are never in the
building?
3. What happens to their current profile when they log onto the new network?
4. What about Group Policy? I run WSUS and was thinking about creating a new
OU for the mobile users and setting WSUS to tell them to get their updates
direct from Windows Update servers.
5. What is the difference between Connection Manager and the VPN they
already have installed?
6. Should I use Roaming User Profiles like I have for the other users? If
so, how do they update to the server?
7. How many other issues have I not thought of?

I am trying to avoid having them send in their notebooks just so I can
configure them. There has to be some sort of guide out there or someone with
some war stories to share. If I have not been clear enough or I need to
provide more information, I would be happy to. I appreciate any responses.
Thanks in advance,

Chris


.

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