## Cross-Platform Management

Contrary to popular belief, Windows NT can run a Telnet server enabling remote users to access the Windows NT command shell. Most Windows NT administration tasks can be accomplished through the command line using a combination of built-in commands, Microsoft Windows NT Resource Kit utilities, and third-party and public domain utilities.

Windows NT and UNIX do not share a common method of displaying a window on a remote computer. The ICA protocol from Citrix is a popular way to display a Microsoft Win32® program on a remote computer. The program does not actually execute on the remote computer, it only displays there. There are several manufacturers of conventional X terminals that support the ICA protocol allowing Win32 and X Windows System programs to display on the same terminal. There are also new technologies that implement the ICA protocol through a Web browser. This means that the only software required to display Win32 programs is that of the browser, even on UNIX. In the reverse direction, it is possible to run an X server under Windows NT, which enables UNIX programs to display on the Windows NT console.

Because of its wide use and platform-independent interface, the future of remote management is likely to come in the form of a Web browser. You can address any security concerns through normal browser technology, such as Secure Sockets Layer (SSL).

Shutting down a remote UNIX computer can be accomplished by using Telnet to connect to the computer and running the shutdown command. There is no built-in Windows NT functionality for remote shutdown or reboot, but there is a shutdown command included as part of the Microsoft Windows NT Resource Kit.

Remote-control software, such as Timbuktu and Remotely Possible/32, have the ability to generate CTRL+ALT+DEL sequences on remote computers, enabling a log on on the console.

#### "Out-of-Band" Remote Management Issues

As in UNIX, there are "out-of-band" solutions for shutting down, rebooting, or power-cycling remote Windows NT computers. These require a "dumb terminal" session over a low-speed modem and provide a very reliable way to reboot a "hung computer" or circumvent a network outage. Windows NT includes an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) service that monitors UPS battery status from a serial cable connected to a COM port. When the UPS signals the Windows NT computer that the battery is low, the Windows NT computer performs a graceful shutdown. Remote reboot and power-cycle can be accomplished by using a device that mimics the low-battery signal that causes the UPS service to shutdown the computer, and then cycling the power. There are several remote-control devices that control both UNIX and Windows NT computers, such as those made by the American Power Conversion (APC) and Server Technology.

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Last Updated: December 1, 1997