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>
> Hi all,
>
> Sorry for asking this super stupid question.
>
> What are the basic differences between *installation*,
> *configuration*, and *system administration*? In my
> opinion, there is a very thin line between the first
> two.
>
I can only speak for myself as an American user--as you're probably
aware there are significant differences in the meanings of words between
your side of the Atlantic and ours. Having said that, here's the way I
read the three terms:
*installation* - initial loading of software onto a user's machine or
network from the original CDs, DVDs, diskettes, or downloaded .ZIP
files; a user must complete "installation" for the application to run on
his or her system.
*configuration* - setting the desired parameters of the software
application; this may include customizing which module of the
application appears when launched from the menu or desktop icon,
adjusting the menu options, color scheme, or other user-selectable
options.
*system administration* - a user with system administration privileges
is able to modify and customize settings on a computer or across a
network; this may include adding/removing software, users, changing
operating functions, and adjusting security privileges.
Or, put another way:
*installation* is required to make an application run on a computer or
network;
*configuration* is required to tweak an application's performance to a
user's needs or preferences;
*system administration* privileges are needed on a computer or network
to install or configure any software.
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