I think Geoff has pointed out the way you will access any machines you need to. It is quite rare for console access to a server that is cranking away. In fact my business relies on two AIX (Unix varient) machines. There are only two operations done at console. The first is tape backup. But really it is more a matter of checking that files really did backup and putting in the next day's tapes. The other is that if building power goes out, someone goes to the server room to ensure all shuts down orderly. Otherwise things are done remotely. In fact, there are some who consider doing anything locally on a server that could be done safely remotely to be a security transgression. Also, there are many servers out there with no keyboard or monitor connected. (And a few with no video to connect a monitor.) The only operation done at the console is hitting the power switch. If one is trying to prepare for a job they hope for, I would recomend learning all one can about administering a box. I would spend almost no time wondering about console access. It is just not really needed in the business world. Console access is something to worry about when you are competing for the boss' job. Not on the first level admin job. ======= Kirk Wood Cpt.Kirk at 1tree.net
