Friday, September 17, 2010

Why Use MSP Software For Cost Effective Network Management

MSP software for cost-effective network management is a necessity because today computing is an essential part of everyone's daily life. Commerce without computing would be unthinkable today and this is why businesses are looking to using the best processes in order to manage finances more effectively.

Computing has become ubiquitous today and every business today is heavily dependent on computers. Therefore, businesses which want to grow must ensure using the right technologies which can help them make the right choices. Technologies are also improving at a rapid pace and these improvements are leading to better growth in businesses that are now able to deal with higher workloads in a more efficient manner.

The use of MSP software in regard to affecting cost effective network management can prove to be a major factor that can help a business improve its profitability and that too without any increase in operating cost. Well selected MSP software will help in checking and also running various managerial functions in a more effective manner and it helps in automating various services as well. When choosing MSP software it is essential to first check that it has the right features. Among other things, these features include device monitoring, remote control, patch management, SLA management, desktop management, asset management, helpdesk, service automation, technician scheduling and creation of timesheets and invoices.

Choosing appropriate MSP software does mean having to select a program that can deal with managing customers through remote control and in the most effective manner as well. The right features will mean that customers time and material is handled more efficiently and in a more proactive manner as well, and more importantly response times will be blazingly fast.

Actually, MSP programs will provide the ability to handle as many as 500 different customer devices per technician and automation of various tasks too becomes easier which leads to significant savings in terms of costs of operations. It also means offering better as well as consistent service which maximizes customer satisfaction levels.

There are a number of features to look for in MSP software but none is as important as being able to affect remote patching of desktops and servers. Furthermore, the software must also be able to do automated distribution of software as well as scripts to remote personal computers and servers. It is only necessary that a company uses correct MSP software which will help in reaping numerous benefits such as instant remote control that in turn will lead to connecting various devices in double quick time. There no doubts the fact that unless and until companies succeed in optimizing network management round the clock they will not find success to the extent that they really should. It hardly matters what size the company is because each can only benefit from using cost effective network management. It is therefore necessary that only the best and most appropriate MSP software be selected so as to properly deal with complexities of a modern business.

Characteristics And Features Of Managed Service Provider Software

To choose or not to choose has always been a dilemma since ages for mankind. The great bard had mentioned it in his classics albeit in a different fashion. Yet, the same holds true when we have to select between objects that offer similar facilities. With the information technology throwing up varieties in abundance on every conceivable issue, how to choose the best managed service provider software also has its share of selection dilemma.

The answer to this question of how to choose the best managed service lies in the aspect of what benefits do we wish to accrue from this selection. The basic features claimed in every managed service provider software are something all are well versed with. That it should provide information about the network and its working. That it should help in diagnosing the network problem and offer means to deploy the solution network wide from one single location. That it should be customisable to meet the changing needs of the business house and its operations are all well established facts and known to exist in every MSP software that is available in the market. If these so claimed features were to be changed to reality how then would it effect the real enterprise functioning or the network managers job would be the guiding factor for choosing the best managed service provider.

It is important to note that the client pays a third party for maintaining and monitoring its network resources. This is the basic business principle on which any managed service system works. The selected MSP should therefore be a proactive one. Waiting for an error or problem to occur on the network and then attending or rectifying it should not be the MSP's method of operation. The MSP should be such that it is able to sense the defect before it occurs and initiate preventive measures to stop the error from occurring and causing any harm to the network. With all preventive measures in place given Murphy and his laws on probability, there is bound to be a breakdown in the network. Quick response by the MSP to rescue and restore the network is another measureable criterion for selection of the MSP. Criticality of the data and the applications that process this data of an enterprise network needs no amplification. The MSP is expected to restore the network to a clean point of operation where the data and application both were functioning correctly. MSP that takes regular backups of the entire network and archives the same would be able to complete the restoration process efficiently.

The MSP must also be able to advise the client on the various changes that are occurring in the volatile IT field and the possibility or feasibility of implementing the same in the existing network for higher efficiency. Security of the network, more so the data which is critical and could be misused if available to wrong people is an important factor for consideration while selecting an MSP. MSP that implements a strict and secure system is the best choice. Verification of the managed service provider's credentials is one other important factor to be considered while choosing an MSP. A good method would be to obtain reference of previous or other places where the MSP has been implemented.

As a check off list the ideas stated here could help to choose the best managed service provider.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Find Out How To Choose The Best Managed Service Provider Software

Learning how to choose the best Managed Service Provider software is an important step for every company, no matter how large or small it may be. This is because it is important for these companies to have some solid protection from frauds and in addition such software can also provide an answer to risk management and help a company meet its different objectives.

It is also important for companies to understand how to choose the best Managed Service Provider software because only such software can help with effective management of online websites. In addition, the software needs to be able to handle security issues and do things such as back up information and even do some much needed storage of data. Managed Service Provider software is also able to take care of important issues in the most reliable manner possible.

Managed Service Provider or MSP software is able to provide many different types of solutions for managed information technologies. Before actually picking this kind of software it is important to look at the kinds of solutions being offered by the software. The software to be useful should provide management of web server solutions and in addition it should be able to manage IT service and improve data storage and ensure maximum information technology security. With the help of MSP software it is easier for companies to control customer servers as well as desktops and in addition the software can also take care of networks, and much more.

The MSP software should be easy to setup and there should not be any need for having to train staff or add additional hardware in order to run the software.

It is also a good idea to find and use the best MSP software by looking at how effectively the software can handle the IT security of the company, which of course must be protected to the limit. Any breach in security can lead to problems that can range from small to huge. If the software can minimize such breaches you will have found the right software.

In addition to web servers and IT security, before choosing a Managed Service Provider it is also important to look at local options first. This is because local companies will be able to visit the company office and handle any tasks that have to be performed at the company premises at a more reasonable cost as compared to MSPs that have to come from a distance.

The use of Managed Service Provider software will help to solve approximately 80 percent of all regular computer related problems. In addition, the software can provide 24 x 7 monitoring support and it can also help to troubleshoot problems.

The bottom line is that as long as you are sure about how to choose the best Managed Service Provider software and you opt for a solution that is affordable you will find it easy to use the software to take care of complexities of today's business environment.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Explaining Benefits Of Remote Monitoring And Management Software

Really a few corporations are considering the gains of remote monitoring and management program from the existing task market. The chance to investigate the production of staff and measure the expectations of consumers is definitely an necessary corporation requirement. Enterprises benefiting from this application are often IT departments, managed service providers or BPO operations. Minor businesses and independent contractors are realizing the power of administration personal computer software and investing in integrating this decision inside their every day operation.

Remote monitoring software delivers the capability to view all activity by an employee or consumer. This application is typically made specifically for just about any small business determined by their desires. The software items insight to the pursuits often utilised and creates it achievable for the employer to appear for methods of development which will encourage corporation improvement.

IT departments utilize remote monitoring software to aid customers with technical troubles. The ability to glimpse at and function on the customer's laptop or computer remotely is important to some IT specialists. Customers are supplied with a good deal far more than a resolution but a the peace of thoughts how the technician is in the placement to look at all the errors they have encountered. This option saves time for that client as properly as the IT technician.

Managed services providers glimpse for administration software program system to aid with the maintenance of quite a few databases of data. Corporations could possibly acquire administration software from a third party organization that presents technical service for any complications they may well perhaps arrive across. Managements software program plan differs based upon the business needs of the company, some firms require software package program that combines schedules or balances checkbooks. Various software companies offer choices that might be customized.

BPO corporations utilize the utilization of checking software to retain track of their telecommuting staff. Pretty a few staff functioning from house are monitored as a result of the applicant ions they use during venture several hours. The personal computer application may be mounted on the telecommuting representative's individual computer system and is only activated when the user indications in to do the job to the BPO corporation. The use of this application plan may possibly look like spy ware yet it presents companies with the assurance how the vendor service representatives are only applying function related elements during a particular time.

Other telecommuting positions make use of checking software to come to be used for advertising and marketing reasons. Promoting and advertising and marketing enterprises seeking for to produce details for website views may make use of a application to count viewers to a unique website. Individuals implementing social networks have end up common with this method generally because they are able to allow a comparable program to watch the viewers to their tailored world-wide-web site.

Corporations seeking to improve industry scores, provide a census quantity for purchases or simply preserve track of corporation created to some world wide web web page or establishment utilize management computer system software package each and each and every day. Professionals are able to receive certification within the accessible software to provide a lot far better service for their employer. Fairly a few programs are developed specifically to the business's demand.

Customers are typically getting the beneficial aspects of remote monitoring and management software. Companies glimpse for using the programs to current better purchaser care or research the expectations of purchasers. A number of corporations may ask the shopper to participate in the use of the application to aid with improvements, however every single purchaser should know that some checking software can cause damage to security systems.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Advantages Of Installing A Remote Network Management Scheme

There are multiple segments of a businesses computer system which keep that business operating correctly. Many companies have been able to become more profitably by utilizing a remote network to manage their computer hardware and software. There are many benefits to allowing a remote network management system supervise ones computer assets.

 

One of the advantages is the management system can completely manage ones entire network. Network systems keep track of all the components such as the servers, programs, connections, the router and hardware. A remote network offers a business the opportunity to make other business management issues be the focal point.

 

Another benefit of a remote network is that the majority of network systems monitor the network 24-hrs a day, 7-days a week. When the monitoring system detects a problem with the network, the problem is instantly reported. In addition, remote systems can regularly monitor peripheral operating parameters that one may not anticipate the need to monitor such as system power levels, environmental temperature, , air moisture, air quality, even the direction of the wind.

 

A very great advantage is improved protection. Every user on the network can be closely protected by the management system. The access granted to each user can be changed at ones own discretion. A networking system offers businesses the option to receive a report on each computer or a system-wide usage report. Businesses can perform a system audit or record the actions of each user on a detailed log which shows all of the networks activity. By utilizing these features, a business can enjoy a more enhanced and secured computer network.

 

One of the largest benefits is the ability to access any computer on the network from a remote location. With this ability, one can identify troubles swiftly with out going to the place where the computer is physically located. A business can designate a person to be notified in the event there is impending difficulty involving a computer to avoid disruption. Plus, the designee can remotely obtain status of online and even offline computers.

 

Gateway networking and mesh networking are more advantages. Gateway networking is a function which allows businesses the option for computer file management. In addition, Gateway networking allows businesses the ability to perform network printing. Mesh networking, alternatively, gives businesses the option to manage electronic devices like cash registers and electronic kiosks. By utilizing a remote network, electronic devices on the network are better able to operate in together.

 

One more advantage is network systems have the ability to oversee numerous computers. The business can store passwords locally to make remote access to individual computers easier. The remote network can view the technological needs of the computer system as a whole allowing the business to respond more efficiently.

 

Remote network management systems can manage all of the technical components of ones business computer network. And the capability to receive status updates from the remote system can provide a much more efficient system. These networks can supply a business with the effectiveness that can be a real advantage.

Monday, September 13, 2010

Newbie Guide For System Management Software

In order to implement and manage distributed systems, there is a need to use what is known as system management software. Assuming a company is big enough and has operations spread out far enough to warrant a distributed system, the advantages are fairly obvious. For a growing company, there is a cutoff point at which it becomes unrealistic to do individual installations on each station, and sort through the paper and electronic trail left by each user in order to centralize the entire setup.

 

Bring in system management at this point, and the benefits are massive and will ripple across every part of the company's operations. It reduces staffing needs and IT costs, enhances security and information sharing, and makes it easy to centralize data, monitor employee actions and network usage.

 

Installation & Management: The biggest help, obviously, comes in the easy and automated installations and updates. A small company with one office and a few computers may find it easy to do installations one by one. But for a large and diversified company with hundreds or even thousands of computers, that's not a choice. Servers and system management makes automation possible and new installations are a painless process, needing no extra time or manpower.

 

Cost Reduction: The question isn't whether or not this software will reduce costs. It assuredly will. The only question is whether the cost of buying and implementing the software, and hiring or training a systems manager, is feasible for the company. On the other hand, it cuts down staffing and IT costs on an on-going basis.

 

The real savings come from the capability to install new systems and software faster and at a lower cost. Companies start using client-server architecture, ERP and other kinds of enterprise level software and systems. It helps them expand, and open branches where otherwise it may not have been possible. End of the day, it leads to a massive makeover for the entire company, with large-scale improvements in distribution, productivity, work flow and reporting capabilities.

 

Security: System management software helps enhance security in a number of ways. For starters, the security settings on all the computers are the same and can be managed remotely by the admin. Users can be given access to the exact same settings on all computers, based on usernames and their duties. This means the computers are more immune to hacking and other external attempts to infiltrate the network.

 

Critical updates such as security patches for browsers and other software are automatically and simultaneously updated on all stations. This removes the threat of individual users ignoring update warnings for their own station. The same applies to updates for enterprise level anti-malware and anti-virus software. Hardware failure or data corruption on individual stations won't cause data loss because the data is being stored on servers with backup systems in place.

 

Monitoring: A huge improvement in monitoring capability is one of the biggest advantages here, other than cost effectiveness and automation. Since the data on the network can be monitored, it is possible to make adjustments to more effectively manage peak periods and down time. Employee monitoring helps management keep an eye on employees and detect work patterns.

 

To sum it up, regardless of the nature of a company or its operations, there is a strong case for implementing system management software. Of course, each company has to make its own decision, and it should be based on a thorough cost benefit analysis. For companies in a growth phase, the ROI will be immediate and the extended benefits even more substantial.

Friday, September 10, 2010

Reasons To Use Automation Software

Being in business you know that your going to have many different things to do. Some of them are going to require you to manually do all the work, but other types of can allow you to use automation software. If you are able to use this type of software your going to discover many benefits that and know that your going to want to use this all the time.

 

Prior to purchasing this kind of software your going to want to realize that these could cost you some money. So make sure that you find a cost that is affordable for your business type and will allow you to make up the cost quickly so you will not be paying the bill off for months at a time.

 

One positive is that your going to be able just put some information in and click a button to get it to do that action. Then you will be able to use that time to do the other things that you want to do. However, you could find that it will be so easy that you could forget that you even have it set up.

 

Another benefit is that you will have more free time to do some other things that your business needs to operate. You can find that this will be a great way for you to get more of the things done at your business. For instance, if you are in marketing on the internet you can find a program that can submit articles to many different places. However, if you did it on your own you could end up having to spend hours just signing up for these directories.

 

Something else is that you can find that quite a few of these programs do exist. With many of these you are going to find that you can find them almost anywhere. Some of them will cost you money, but others will be free. However, the free ones might have some glitches that have not been fixed yet.

 

You might think that this is going to be specific to only one thing, but it is quite different because you can find them to cover many different topics. Some of the topics are ones that you will want to have automated such as emailing, but you might find that some will automatically generate bills for you, take care of the payment for you or other things as well.

 

You could discover that you can complete more things than what you thought you ever could. By having these you can find that you will be able to get more things done than what you could before. Even though you might end up thinking that your not getting as much done you will see that your actually getting more done than what you thought before.

 

You might not have heard of IT automation software before, but you will want to discover the reasons why you will want to use it. After you have found those reasons you will not go back to using anything else like you used to.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Remote Management Software A Common Sense Solution To Your Computer Problems

Remote management software is the natural progression for managing information technology (IT) challenges. With an ever expanding catalog of software applications and networking functions, the expertise of professionals trained in computer science has become indispensable to even the smallest of business offices.

 

Thanks to the advanced development of the Internet the computer consultant can now do most of remotely. The consultant can be any place where there is Internet access to do his job. This would not have been possible 25 years ago. It probably was not even imagined by the typical user of the personal computer. Today it is common place. Almost everyone has Interned access and knows how to use it. The idea of a virtual relationship between the consultant and the user no longer seems far fetched.

 

Remote training is one of the good things to come out due to the development of the Internet and the World Wide Web. Some consequences have been problematic, such as an increasing lack of privacy or the opportunity for scamming unsuspecting Internet users. However, RMS can definitely ease the learning curve for users of new computer applications.

 

The remote program is economical and in most instances, user friendly. These programs help employees to be more useful to their employees and improve the level of computer skills. If a business is having computer programming difficulties that brings all action to a halt, it is extremely convenient to contact your off site consultant so the problem can be immediately resolved.

 

Remote management can be effective for the smallest and largest of businesses. You may be a single user of a personal computer, or you may be the manager of a company with 300 networked computers. In either case, your remote consultant can keep work flow going and train employees to use new and updated applications.

 

It has been discussed that RMS facilitates training, but it is also very useful for fixing problems that require the expertise of a professional computer consultant. A phone call or an email can serve to advise the consultant of the facts surrounding the current problem. The computer expert can log on at any time, and work to solve the problem with or without the presence of the subscribing user. The flexibility of the RMS programs works well in either instance, the computer consultant working alone or in concert with the user.

 

Training can be another function of RMS. Sometimes new and unfamiliar applications can seem like a series of brick walls to the new untrained user. Remote training sessions can be set up where the trainer and the trainee are actually seeing the same screen. This allows for some practical experience, as opposed to merely reading a computer manual. Since the training is effective and efficient, the new user quickly becomes adept at the new application.

 

Remote management software can be very helpful to individuals and businesses. There is an opportunity for the subscribing user to build an virtual relationship with the computer consultant that makes the next level of training that much easier.

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

10 Top Reasons To Use IT Managed Services

If one looks closely at IT managed services, one can understand that it is an area where information technology management is key. Although, some individuals do not understand the many different process which exist as part of such a system. Therefore, if one is interested in becoming involved in IT, often one has to go through a great deal of education and training in order to do so.

 

Of course, paramount to success is the ability to understand the various applications which such a team may use. These applications often include the ability to work remotely, to allow customers to download security patches and upgrade software applications from their location and to stay connected with each customer over a virtual network. For, in doing so, a company can save a great deal on time and travel related to delivering such products in person. Therefore, it is beneficial for both the company and the client in relation to savings over time.

 

Of course, with as fast as things change with regards to technology today, one often has to stay on top of new trends twenty four seven in order to succeed. However, there are shortcuts one can use, such as keeping up with technological periodicals and reading updates to various applications and processes online on a regular basis. Also, once one learns the ropes, one most likely has even more job opportunities waiting in the future. However, one must also understand the benefits associated with the many applications in order to sell customers on the various security patches or software upgrades which may have costs associated with same. So, the more software applications one knows the better. For, this is true whether one is an employee working on such a product for a client, or one who delivers such products to a client, for both require knowledge and knowledge is power.

 

As for where the terminology related to this area of IT came about, it is neither copyrighted or proprietary and remains open to use by all. Although, it is a phrase and often a title used quite frequently within the area of Internet technology. Still, as there is no clear ownership, the phrase does a good job of defining the exact responsibility of IT personnel which is to manage IT services which are distributed to clients worldwide.

 

Another function within the field of IT management is a process focused system which is focused on process improvement. In addition, there are also business process management, frameworks and other methodologies used within this area of IT. However, this area has no concern with the use of vendor products or even with some of the details relating to technical issues. Rather, it focuses on establishing and providing a framework in which other activities related to IT and IT personnel along with customers are framed.

 

Of main concern in relation to process improvement is the operational concerns related to information technology which, at times, has also been referred to as operations architecture. However, this area of IT management is in no way related to technology development. Regardless, it is an important area nonetheless in which many IT support personnel are required. Another area of concern in this area is automated services, for while some clients prefer automatic updates, others dislike the process with a passion. However, it is still advised that companies opt for automatic updates with an option to turn off such updates when necessary. Last but not least, while computer software written for sale or designing microprocessors would not be under this area of IT, systems used by those in business and marketing companies may very well be. Of course, whether one is working for a company receiving IT Managed Services or one is an employee of a managed services team, there is no doubt that the individual has found success within the realm of Internet Technology. To this end, anyone with knowledge of a variety of applications, is good with customers and can provide outstanding service would make an excellent member of an IT managed services team.

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Programming In The Software IT Management World

Any time one is away from the office, one risks the chance of having left important data back at the office. Today, with the advancement of Software IT Management remote applications, one can not only manage a customer base but also access data and files from a remote location. Still, most such management software is used in order to keep customers updated on a variety of changes to software one may have purchased from such a company. Therefore, one no longer has to carry around bulky files and other information as most such data is easily available with a few clicks of the mouse from anywhere in the world.

 

Of course, those in the field of internet technology know that some aspects of remote software applications first made their way into research and development in the 1990s, today this software has many features which far surpass the simple ability to access a laptop or personal computer from a remote location. For, today, not only can this software be used in this fashion but also by individuals who may need to download application security patches and upgrades from the company from which such products were purchased. Although, if one is going to use any form of remote application software, either as an individual or an employee of a company, one needs to be very cautious in doing so. This is where the importance of user ids and passwords comes into play which is more important in today's technological age than ever before.

 

Regardless, such software can be very beneficial in relation to having access of such information while away from the workplace. For, it can allow individuals more freedom in scheduling along with the ability to access such data rather than having to carry heavy files around to a number of customer locations, or spend long hours upgrading software while at a customer site. So, while it may take a little more effort when it comes to security, the extra effort is easily worth the sacrifice.

 

As to which applications such software can provide, these often include, but are not limited to, software that allows a business to stay in touch with their worldwide customers, automatic security patch and software upgrades where desired, the ability to turn off such automatic updates during downloads or while upgrading software. To this end, if one plans on using such software over the long term, one may want to accept automatic updates so that one does not miss any important security patches or software upgrades.

 

While these are the basic features of such remote software, other features include, access and troubleshooting of customer software from a remote locale, delivery of application files, security patches and software upgrades through a secured network and the ability to maintain a virtual relationship with the company customer base regardless of where such a business or office may be located.

 

Of course, as the age of technology moves forward so too the speed of which such applications are delivered. However, with this type of software, a company can rest assured that one is going to gain greater competition in the business world, flexibility, and higher levels of speed when processing data. Such software can also provide an IT management team with data related to product and delivery schedules so that one can notify a customer if a product can be delivered ahead of schedule or needs to have such delivery rescheduled. Therefore, tracking of product and delivery is an excellent feature related to such programs.

 

So, today one has far more opportunities in relation to maintaining a long distance business relationship through this IT management software than has anyone ever before. As such, there are more and more companies offering remote software applications worldwide. However, some IT management software is no doubt better than others. Therefore, one may want to look at the various applications both one's company and one's client base are using before making a final decision on which one may work best for overall company needs.

 

Regardless, if one is need of Software IT Management and software as part of an Software IT Management team, one can now find this software on the market. Also, as such software often allows managers and team members to access personal data and files form a remote location, the software can provide a great deal more flexibility in scheduling. Although, the true purpose of this type of software is often most likely used to allow a company to provide automatic updates of applications and security patches to a customers who may be located anywhere in the world.

Friday, September 3, 2010

Network Management Software Programs For Offices

Using network management software can be the answer you are looking for in keeping your office devices running. With multiple devices connected at the same time, you can have problems determining where the trouble may be.

 

Protocols are kept track of in the software and any discrepancies or issues found by the software will be recorded and the data kept. The IT can then make an easier determination regarding the component that is not connecting properly and why. Any trouble that the program sees with a device will be isolated and the appropriate data recorded.

 

IT's commonly do a check of the company systems at a pre-specified time frame. When the IT goes into the system and does the check, he or she can see the specific data that is linked to any issues that may need to be resolved. This data is automatically recorded and is therefore easy to retrieve on a regular basis.

 

NMS software is responsible for gathering all data regarding the devices that are connected to the network and recording it for analysis and research. Anything that occurs within the system can be traced back to the data presented. The data will specify the exact error message, if there was one, or code for the performance of the device at the time of the malfunction.

 

Managed devices, or the specific components that are connected to the system, are the computers, laptops, printers, and any other electronic office machines that are used together and may be linked to each other. When you connect them all they are capable of receiving data from each other automatically. For example, if you have three computers on the network and all all entering bookkeeping data, you can go to any one of the computers and have all of the information viewable on that computer. When something is entered into one, they will all receive and display that data as long as they are linked and synced properly.

 

A system that utilizes several components at once, and are all connected to the same server, are going to give you some challenges. If you consider the issues you have on a fairly regular basis with just one computer, you can only imagine how complex it might be to run several at once on the same system. The answer to this potential dilemma is to use a management system for your networks.

 

 

The office will stay up and running more easily with the use of a good management program. With the ease of diagnosis that is available to the IT you will see better productivity levels. It will become much easier to troubleshoot with data readily available and easy to read.

 

NMS, otherwise known as network management software, will become the core of your device pool. You won't know how you managed without it. Your connected devices will be monitored and analyzed on a regular basis to create a troubleshooting and proactive problem solving climate for the information technologists. Data relative to the performance of your electronic devices will be collected, stored, and placed in an accessible position for easy retrieval by the technical team responsible for your IT issues.

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Remote Desktop Management Improves Expedience

The idea of using remote desktop management is to control PC's from a location other than in front of the computer itself. This method of management is convenient for those that may have trouble with a computer and can't take the computer in to a technician. Someone can access your computer from afar and troubleshoot, change settings, or anything else that needs to be done to get the machine up and running again. The ability to share control will free you up from disassembling your PC and hauling it into the tech shop. This works well for larger companies, too. Imagine the busy IT having the ability to access the computers used throughout the building to troubleshoot an issue. The problem could be fixed in very short order without him or her having to physically walk across the company campus to access the computer with the glitch. These tasks can be more efficiently accomplished with the use of a high speed transfer rate that's available in the remote programs. The applications on a computer can be updated or changed, performance checks performed, or downloads can be deposited onto the recipient desktop. The user doesn't need to close what is being worked on for the tech to access the computer.

 

A full desktop screen can be observed by the technician to make it easy to see what may be happening. Screenshots can be captured and kept for reference or research, as in the case of an error message or other special information that may be needed to do a diagnostic on the computer. Performance can be monitored remotely and information can be recorded as needed. The technician will be able to see what the user had been accessing before the problem occurred. This can be an immense help in the troubleshooting process and allows the tech to make a quicker determination of the problem.

 

When the tech has isolated the problem with the computer, an action can be commanded remotely as appropriate to the repair process. The computer being repaired can be rebooted, shut off, locked or unlocked, programs launched, or applications stopped. There are different types of remote desktop control software. Some provide only the simplest access and some provide full access including the override of a computer completely. Basic access levels include the interactive access and the capture capability for screen shots.

 

A medium access program will likely include screen cast recording, shut off capability, chat with the remote user, applications lists, monitoring of the performance, inventory information, and the option of printing out all of the information.

 

For the best remote desktop management available the premium type has options that will give your IT the best chance of working efficiently and with the least hassle. There are options for OS hotfix, program folders, processor data, printer and device performance and more.

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Patch Management Software Gives Security Choices For Today

Patch management software has become a growing choice of corporations and businesses over the last few years. The Windows operating system and the frequent fixes got the consumer used to the idea of updating, and to limited automated software patch programs. The new patch management solutions bring this to businesses in a way that meets their security needs.

 

A computer user in a home environment will often allow Windows to automatically search for, and apply patches or security packs on an automatic basis. In the corporate or business environment, the same is true, however there are additional programs running that must also be fixed in order to ensure a system is up to date and secure. Taking the time to research and assess each program on each machine could be a task that consumed labor and expense for businesses prior to the introduction of patch software.

 

However today there are multiple choices in programs for managing updates and patches automatically or semi automatically. Security of the company assets is a primary source of concern for many businesses and enabling the latest security fixes provides enhanced security and functionality to the programs. Although these patches are essential they can be time consuming in larger operations if patch software management is not used.

 

The software will normally contain a console where administrator preferences can be set. That means the administrator can determine which programs should be updated and scanned and those which can be ignored. There are usually options to choose a patch download site in the console area as well.

 

A company with multiple machines may well have different purposes for each one and different programs installed as well. In that case the management software will scan each machine separately and apply the patches or fixes. Software to manage patches will usually intelligently apply only those patches necessary for the programs present on the machine.

 

One very common type of management program for patches is that of the agent based software. This solution employs an agent, or small program on each machine. The agent scans the machine and makes the necessary changes. When the changes and scan are complete the program reports the results to a central administrative machine.

 

Other types of management programs use a central machine as the controller. This central computer with a program on it scans each of the machines in the system applies the necessary system changes on the targeted computers in the network. This is known as agentless management in that the only requirement for the other machines is that they be connected to the network, instead of the internet as is required for agent based solutions. The agentless type of management software requires more direct supervision than the programs which reside on individual machines.

 

Whichever method is chosen the patch management software alternatives tend to save time and help improve security. This is particularly true when patching a large network with many machines. Before a decision is made in favor of agent or agentless software the business should assess the available work force, security needs and bandwidth of the company. While the agent based solution is more bandwidth intensive, it requires less supervision. The agentless method requires less bandwidth but is ultimately more controllable.