Initializing an NIS+ Client by Using the Cold-Start Method

This task initializes an NIS+ client by using the cold-start file of another NIS+ client, preferably one from the same domain. This is the most secure method of setting up an NIS+ client. It ensures that the client obtains its NIS+ information from a trusted server, something that cannot be guaranteed by the host-name or broadcast method.

How to Initialize an NIS+ Client With a Cold-Start File

Use the nisinit command with a cold-start file to initialize an NIS+ client.

Before You Begin

You must perform this task as superuser on the client.

• You need the name and location of the cold-start file you will copy.

• The servers specified in the cold-start file must already be configured and running NIS+.

• The client must use the same Diffie-Hellman key lengths as those on the master server. See nisauthconf(1M).

1. Copy the other client's cold-start file.

   Copy the other client's cold-start file into a directory in the new client. This may be easier to do while logged on as yourself rather than as superuser on the client. Be sure to switch back to superuser before initializing the client.

   Don't copy the NIS_COLD_START file into /var/nis, because that file gets overwritten during initialization. This example copies the cold-start file of previously initialized client1 into the /tmp directory of uninitialized client2.

   client2# exit client2% rcp client1:/var/nis/NIS_COLD_START /tmp client2% su

2. Initialize the client from the cold-start file.

   Use the nisinit command with the -c and -C options.

   client2# nisinit -c -C /tmp/NIS_COLD_START This machine is in the doc.com. NIS+ domain. Setting up NIS+ client ... All done.