Red Hat NETWORK SATELLITE 5.2 Installation Manual page 8

Chapter 1. Introduction
When a client requests updates, the organization's internal RHN Satellite Server queries its database,
authenticates the client system, identifies the updated packages available for the client system, and
sends the requested RPMs back to the client system. Depending upon the client's preferences, the
package may also be installed. If the packages are installed, the client system sends an updated
package profile to the database on the RHN Satellite Server; those packages are removed from the
list of outdated packages for the client.
The organization can configure the website for the RHN Satellite Server to be accessible from the
local area network only or from both the local area network and the Internet. The Satellite's version of
the RHN website allows full control over client systems, system groups, and users.
The RHN Satellite Server management tools are used to synchronize the RHN Satellite Server
database and package repository with Red Hat Network. The RHN Satellite Server import tool allows
the system administrator to include custom RPM packages in the package repository.
RHN Satellite Server can be used in conjunction with RHN Proxy Server to deliver a distributed,
self-contained Red Hat Network deployment for the organization. For example, an organization can
maintain one RHN Satellite Server in a secure location. Red Hat systems with local network access
to the RHN Satellite Server can connect to it. Other remote offices can maintain RHN Proxy Server
installations that connect to the RHN Satellite Server. The different locations inside the organization
must be networked, but this can be a private network; an Internet connection is not required for any of
the systems. Refer to the RHN Proxy Server Installation Guide for more information.
Figure 1.1. Using RHN Satellite Server and RHN Proxy Server Together
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