In our network most of the basic configurations are done in automatic mode. A DHCP server will assign an IP address to workstations and laptops (if authorized) and also all the others parameters needed to the computer for using the network.
<note warning> On laptops, use of static IP and personal configurations aren't allowed </note>
The list of the printer is broadcasted from the Printers Servers and all the workstation are able to use the printers without user intervention. Mac Os X users can find the printers on the “Shared printers” item on the printing window. Windows users have to connect to melpomene.epfl.ch print server and install the printer they want use, in order to print.
All users can access his/hers homedir using Linux, Os X or Windows. In the first case the homedir is automatically accessible from all the linux workstations of the labs. Os X user have to connect to the melpomene.epfl.ch server and use the username/password to access the server. After the authentication, the homedir is accessible.