Broadcast Initialization

This method initializes an NIS+ client by sending an IP broadcast on the client's subnet.

This is the simplest way to configure a client but is also the least secure. The NIS+ server that responds to the broadcast sends the client all the information that the client needs in its cold-start file, including the server's public key. Presumably, only an NIS+ server will respond to the broadcast. However, the client has no way of knowing whether the workstation that responded to the broadcast is indeed a trusted server. As a result, this method is only recommended for sites with small, secure networks.

Security Considerations

You must perform this task as superuser on the client.

Prerequisites

At least one NIS+ server must exist on the same subnet as the client.

Information You Need

You need the superuser password to the client.

How to Initialize a Client--Broadcast Method

Initialize the client.

This step initializes the client and creates a NIS_COLD_START file in its /var/nis directory. Use the nisinit command with the -c and -B options.

client1# nisinit -c -B
This machine is in the doc.com. NIS+ domain.
Setting up NIS+ client ...
All done.

An NIS+ server on the same subnet will reply to the broadcast and add its location information into the client's cold-start file.