About Distribution Points
Distribution points are servers used to host files for distribution to computers and mobile devices. The following types of files can be distributed from a distribution point using Jamf Pro:
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Packages
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Scripts
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In-house apps
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In-house books
Jamf Pro supports two types of distribution points:
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File share distribution points
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A cloud distribution point
You can use any combination of these types of distribution points.
By default, the first distribution point you add to Jamf Pro is the principal distribution point. The principal distribution point is used by all other distribution points as the authoritative source for all files during replication. You can change the principal distribution point at any time.
Note: On computers with macOS 10.15 or later that do not have an MDM profile, you must use an HTTP, HTTPS, or cloud distribution point to install packages.
When planning your distribution point infrastructure, it is important to understand the differences between each type of distribution point. The following table explains the key differences:
|
|
File Share Distribution Point |
Cloud Distribution Point |
|
Description |
Standard server that is configured to be a distribution point |
Distribution point that uses one of the following content delivery networks (CDNs) to host files:
|
|
Maximum Number per Jamf Pro Instance |
Unlimited |
One |
|
Server/Platform Requirements |
Any server with an Apple Filing Protocol Note: File share distribution points cannot be mounted and hosted on the same server. |
None |
|
Protocol |
AFP, SMB, HTTP, or HTTPS |
HTTPS |
|
Ports |
|
443 |
|
Authentication Options |
|
None |
|
Files that Can Be Hosted |
Packages |
|
|
Parent-Child Capabilities |
No |
No |
|
File Replication Method |
Replication to file share distribution points must be initiated from Jamf Admin. |
Replication to a cloud distribution point must be initiated from Jamf Admin. |
|
Selective Replication |
Not available when replicating to file share distribution points. |
Available when replicating to a cloud distribution point if the principal distribution point is a file share distribution point. The files for replication must be specified in Jamf Pro and the replication initiated from Jamf Admin. |
Related Information
For related information, see the following sections in this guide:
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File Share Distribution Points
Find out how to manage file share distribution points in Jamf Pro. -
Cloud Distribution Point
Find out how to manage the cloud distribution point.