Resource model configuration and deployment in a distributed computer network

A method of deploying a resource model in a distributed computer network using a computer having a graphical user interface, the resource model having associated therewith a set of one or more mapping rules that associate the resource model to a given resource, comprising the steps of:

• (a) displaying a set of distribution icons on the graphical user interface, each icon representing a set of given machines in the distributed computer network;
• (b) dragging and dropping an icon representing the resource model onto a selected one of the distribution icons;
• and
• (c) in response to step (b), invoking the mapping rules associated with the resource model at each machine in the set.

A method operative in a computer having a graphical user interface for managing a large, distributed computer network, comprising the steps of:

• (a) discovering at least one set of machines having a resource associated therewith;
• (b) displaying a distribution icon associated with the discovered set;
• (c) dragging and dropping an icon representing a resource model onto the distribution icon;
• and
• (d) in response to step (c), directing instantiation of the resource model onto the set of machines.

In a large distributed enterprise having a management server servicing a set of gateway machines, each of which services a set of endpoint machines, a resource model deployment method comprising the steps of:

• (a) displaying a distribution icon associated with a set of endpoint machines;
• (c) associating an icon representing a resource model with the distribution icon;
• and
• (d) in response to step (c), instantiating the resource model onto the set of endpoint machines.

A computer for use in managing a large distributed computer enterprise, comprising:

• a processor;
• an operating system;
• a graphical user interface;
• and resource model deployment means, comprising:
• (a) means for discovering at least one set of machines having a resource associated therewith;
• (b) means for associating the discovered set of machines with a distribution icon;
• and
• (c) means responsive to dragging and dropping an icon representing a resource model onto the distribution icon for instantiating the resource model onto the set of machines.

A computer program product in computer-readable media for use in a computer having a processor, an operating system, a graphical user interface, and means for connecting the computer into a large distributed enterprise, the computer program product comprising:

• (a) means for discovering at least one set of machines having a resource associated therewith;
• (b) means for associating the discovered set of machines with a distribution icon;
• and
• (c) means responsive to dragging and dropping an icon representing a resource model onto the distribution icon for instantiating the resource model onto the set of machines.