AIX Version 4.3 Differences Guide

6.1.2 DSMIT Overview
DSMIT (Distributed SMIT) makes the function of SMIT available in a distributed
systems environment. DSMIT allows the administrator to perform SMIT tasks
across multiple systems simultaneously from a single point of control. Concurrent
and sequential modes of execution are supported. DSMIT provides both the
ASCII and graphical user interfaces of SMIT.
DSMIT is a Licensed Program Product (LPP) originally introduced on AIX 3.2.5
and later enhanced and released for AIX V4. In the most recent version, Version
2.2, DSMIT provides an ongoing secure operation including the secure
modification of the security configuration and updates of passwords and keys.
DSMIT security is based on well established cryptographic routines and
DSMIT-specific (modeled after Kerberos 5) communication protocols. DSMIT
security features include integrated sign on, authentication, data integrity, data
confidentiality, and logging.
Like SMIT, the DSMIT menus and dialogs are easily extendable. Furthermore,
DSMIT provides a command line interface that allows the user to run commands,
scripts, and programs of their choice on distributed systems. The command line
interface allows the user to exploit the capability of DSMIT beyond the provided
menus and dialogs without adding additional menus or dialogs. The command
line interface also supports interactive commands in the sequential mode of
execution. For example, you can run ksh and perform interactive tasks over the
secure DSMIT connection.
DSMIT also extends the function of SMIT to heterogeneous systems, with agents
available for managing SunOS 4.1.3, Solaris 2.3, and HP-UX 9.0, although the
DSMIT agents have not remained current with new releases of Solaris and
HP-UX.
6.1.3 VSM Overview
VSM (Visual System Manager) is a graphical user interface that enables you to
perform system management tasks through the direct manipulation of objects
(icons). Due to VSMs drag and drop graphical interface, you do not need to have
a complete understanding of the AIX commands.
VSM was originally introduced as part of AIX 3.2.5 and was enhanced on AIX
Version 4. VSM is composed of independent application programs that currently
include:
• Device Manager
• Print Manager
• Storage Manager (as shown in Figure 13)
• Users and Groups Manager
• Install and Update Software Manager
• Set Date and Time
• Schedule a Job
• Remove or View Scheduled Jobs
• Maintain Installed Software
• RAID Device Manager
System Management and Utilities 97