Migrating local accounts to network accounts

Question

Level 1

4 points

Migrating local accounts to network accounts

I have to add a few laptops to Profile Manager and I have some apprehension doing so. Each laptop has a local account that has been used for a year now, so they all have their own settings (mail, calendar, etc...). I have to add their laptops to their OS X Server via Profile Manager to meet HIPAA requirements for username/password management.

My questions is this: Is there a way to migrate their local account settings to a network account so we don't have to go through the process of setting them back up individually again after signing into their network account?

MacBook Air, OS X El Capitan (10.11.6)

Posted on Aug 19, 2016 11:51 AM

Reply

Answer 1

cdhw

Level 4

3,594 points

Aug 19, 2016 2:16 PM in response to moses1084

I'm not sure exactly what you are trying to achieve. (Converting to a mobile account changes a lot more than just 'username/password' management.)

I don't think that there is a 'single click' method, but this post may get you started:

https://jamfnation.jamfsoftware.com//discussion.html?id=14031#responseChild8457 2

C.

Reply

Answer 2

Aug 19, 2016 3:43 PM in response to moses1084

I too am not aware of any single-click method or established process to do this, especially one that brings over settings like mail and calendars. Personally, I would not trust such a setup either, especially with how finicky OD is with accounts and creds.

My recommendation would be to build a process that includes creating the network accounts and then migrating select data to the new system. In many cases, you'll be able to move their data and import it into the new setup.

But, there are a lot of unknowns here, like does everyone use their own mail setup through a public provider? Or, does the organization provide mail? Or a mixture of both? Likewise with the calendars, contacts, etc. Are user name formats changing to a standardized scheme when to bring OD online? Will you be providing them server-based home directories, or mobile accounts with local homes? Etc., etc.

I realize this isn't what you wanted to hear, but you've got your work cut out for you! :-)

Tim

Reply