The network services provided by Lion Server are not that great compared to other platforms and devices. DNS is capable to help resolve names on a local network. The VPN service is fine for smaller workgroups of users to connect to the network the Lion Server is on from remote locations. The RADIUS option is fine for AirPorts. The DHCP service can be used in smaller environments as well. If you have the budget to get a dedicated box to provide routing options, then the NAT service just shouldn’t be used (we covered it for those who don’t have such a budget).

But while the services are fine, they very much lack in scalability and modern features that most environments now rely on. Although far more complicated to use, if you find yourself needing more options for any of these services, then look to Microsoft Windows or Linux servers. However, for the target audience of this book, these services (other than NAT of course) should work for your needs. Now that we’ve covered building out a capable network environment, we’ll put a heavy load on that environment in Chapter 10, when discussing imaging Mac OS X computers.