Question : Push image to multiple computers using a network switch

I have 37 new computers I want to push a XP ghost image to. I'd like to use a 24 port network switch to push the image out to the new computers. I have ghost software (enterprise) and currently have it set up to clone computers (older ones that I'll be replacing with the new ones) over the network as part of my backup solution. I was thinking it would be easier to just use a switch since I'll have all the new computers in one room and can plug them all into the switch. I'd like to isolate it to the switch so it won't go over the current network if possible.

From what I've read about pushing images over a network I will I need to know mac address of new pcs and/or use a boot disk..but looking to simply push the image out all at one time to new computers - what's the best way to approach this? I'd still need to configure additional settings on the new computers after getting the base image on them but I want to get the base image on the computers in the most efficient way possible since it will take a little more time for me to do the special configurations I need to do. Thanks!

Answer : Push image to multiple computers using a network switch

You have three options, Unicast, Directed broadcast and Multicast available via Ghost Console, Multicast would be the most efficient, as only one stream of data is sent out for all clients, however since you're connecting via a single switch, Unicast and/or Directed broadcast could also be used, a stream of data would be sent to each client, depending on the network card and switch i.e. 1gb or not you may want to choose the latter it may prove to be slightly faster.

Most if not all of these options are available inside the Ghost Cast Server options, although you could disconnect the switch from the network, you'd need to setup the machines to have their own individual IP Addresses, in the past I've found it better to let dhcp to assign the ip addresses and then just use a generic flash drive and/or cdrom network bootup disk/drive to start the machines.

Cheers