Network user accounts - what is a good path going forward?
Hello experts,
I am managing a small 100% OS X-based network with a server and about 5 desktop MacMinis. The server runs OS X Server with open directory and also hosts FileMaker Server.
The staff does NOT have dedicated workstations. Depending on the needs, staff needs to be able to sit at any computer, log in with their network account and find their items and settings where they left them while working on a different workstation the day before.
Today, this is realized with network home folders located on the server and works reasonably well, occasional oddities with Mail aside.
I do not really use any other OS X server services besides network accounts with server-based home folders, basic DNS and file sharing (no calendar, mail, website, etc.).
Given Apple's (unfortunate) decision to dismantle and cripple OS X Server functionality with Mojave, I am looking for an alternative going forward. Staying current with FileMaker versions (the core business app) requires upgrading to Mojave at some point and maintaining the ability for staff to move between computers is also critical.
How should I approach this? Should I completely separate the login/home folder issue by using a different technology, like *cough* an AD server? Are there other reliable mechanisms to synchronize local home folders with a network location reliably at the beginning and end of a user session?
I'd like to avoid the need to setup up local accounts for every staff member on every desktop (even there are "only" 5) and manage email and other account settings in that way, if possible.
Please do share your ideas, if you have a minute. I certainly appreciate it!
Thanks.