Logon scripts for existing network clients can be modified to include a mandatory upgrade. (Logon scripts point to a batch file that runs automatically every time a user logs on.) One example of a logon script might include the command net time \\servername to set the time on all workstations in the domain to be the same as the server time.
Existing logon scripts can be modified to include the winnt or winnt32 command, providing a forced upgrade when a user logs on. A prompt could be included in the logon script to give the user the option to postpone the upgrade. The user will be prompted for information unless you specify an answer file with the /u option and possibly a UDF with the /udf option. (For example, if the computername for this particular computer is not specified in an answer file or the UDF that you specify on the command line, the user will be prompted for the computername.) For information on these options to the winnt and winnt32 commands, see Chapter 2, "Customizing Setup."
Note
This method is only viable for smaller LANs. If undue stress is placed on the network from hundreds of concurrent upgrades, the entire network can fail. However, it is a useful alternative in some situations, as when Systems Management Server is not available, staffing resources for deployment are limited, or only a few users typically log on at any one time.
Remember that any time the winnt or winnt32 command is used, the setup files must be placed on a distribution sharepoint. If necessary, answer files may be included and, if used, must be included in the logon script syntax.