Friday, September 17, 2010

Why Make Utilize Of Genuine Best MSP Software For Cost Effective Network Management

Using MSP software can ensure more cost-effective network management. In this modern world, efficient network management is a reality because everyone is making use of computers today and it is hard to imagine doing commerce today without using computers in some form or the other. Therefore, each business today is in search of the most outstanding processes with which to achieve efficient and effective financial management. 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 for cost effective network management can provide numerous benefits including helping to earn more profits and this is done without bearing higher costs of operations. The right kind of MSP software will help in monitoring and running management oriented functions in a more effective manner and it also leads to automation of various services.

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.

Good MSP software needs to have desirable features such as patching up desktops and servers through remote control. In addition, the software needs to do automatic distribution of scripts and software to remote PCs 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.

The Characteristics Of Managed Service Provider Software

In a different manner and context the bard of English literature had mentioned about the dilemma mankind faces when up for making a selection. Is this the right choice or not is the question that plagues the mind long even after having finalised the decision. How to choose the best managed service provider software for the network of an establishment is also one such issue that keeps everyone in a dilemma. The straight forward response or answer to that question no doubt would be that it is dependent on the benefits that one desires to achieve from this selection. There are however certain basic features that all MSP claims to be inherent with their product. Every MSP provides information about the network as a complete entity. They also are capable of percolating the solution to a problem of the network from one single access point. Customisable to the ever changing business process which is directly linked to the changing market scenario is also one more feature that every MSP claims. How these features are adapted to suit the business house's needs and how these features are implemented that it makes the task of network management an easier task to be performed are the factors that need to be looked into while replying the query of how to choose the best managed service.

It has to be remembered that managed service is a system where a third party is maintaining and motoring a clients resources. In turn the client pays money to the Managed service provider for the service. It is therefore essential that the chosen MSP is a proactive one. Meaning, the service provider should not wait for a defect to occur for fixing it, rather be able to sense the defect before hand, indicate and initiate corrective or preventive measures. If Murphy's Law is to be accepted, then it is a well established probability factor that a breakdown of the network is inevitable even with all proactive agents at work. The MSP in such a case should be able to respond quickly to the situation and restore the network back to its normal function swiftly.

Data and applications that process the data are critical objects of an enterprise network. There would be need for the MSP to restore the system to a clean point just before the defect occurred. To do so, taking regular backups of the entire system by the MSP is a pre-requisite. This backed up data would be used by the MSP during the restore process.

IT field is a volatile and ever changing field. Market changes being brought to the notice of the management as well as advising how the same could be implemented on the existing enterprise wide network is also another factor to be considered while choosing the best managed service provider.

An MSP with lax security features would be very dangerous to the health of the enterprise. Holes in the security of an MSP are vantage points for malicious programs to enter into the network and wreak havoc with the data and the application software too. MSP with high features in its security aspects is to be selected. Last but not the least, how efficient is the service provider itself and specially if referred by other sites where the provider has implemented some MSP would be a factor in favour of selecting a particular MSP.

These guidelines are sure to help in answering the question of how to choose the best managed service provider.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Several Clues To Show You How To Choose The Best Managed Service Provider Software

It makes sense for companies to make an effort to find out how to choose the best Managed Service Provider software because pretty soon it will become necessary to buy protection against fraud. In addition, it is also a good idea to know how Managed Software Provider software can offer a solution to risk management and in any other way help address the company's main objectives. It is also necessary to learn how to choose the best Managed Service Provider software because, if chosen properly, the software will help to keep company websites working more efficiently. In addition, the software must handle a number of other tasks including having to deal with security issues as well as taking care of backing up of information and it also helps with handling data storage. Furthermore, this software will also take care of issues in more efficient and effective ways. 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.

The main reasons why it pays to use an MSP software is because the software is able to help a company stay on top of customer servers and desktops as well as can handle networks and a lot more. For example, it handles hardware and software as well as can perform inventory tracking. It also can provide automated server as well as desktop maintenance tools and in addition can also take care of remote support.

It is vital that when choosing MSP software that you look at how easy it is to set up the software and you should also choose software that does not require having to train people or add hardware in order to get the software to do its job.

It is also possible to learn whether particular MSP software is right for your company by identifying the extent to which the software helps in securing the company's IT aspects. Information technology security is a crucial area and it must be protected to the maximum. Breaches in security, whether serious or not can have unpleasant consequences which must be prevented at all costs. The right software should ensure that the IT scenario for the company is foolproof. 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.

Using MSP software can help in solving about eighty percent of all normal computer problems and it also ensures having round the clock monitoring support as well as troubleshooting support. Identification of potential problems is better done through MSP software which can also prevent the problems from occurring by use of real time remote monitoring. The right software helps in cutting costs, building revenues and delivering better services. As long as one understands just how to choose the best Managed Service Provider software there is a good chance that this software will provide numerous benefits and minimize risks and so will give any company an advantage over its competitors. Such software is also, in most cases, affordable and so this is another good reason why it pays to make use of it.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Finding Deciding Benefits Of Remote Monitoring And Management Software

Several corporations are contemplating the gains of remote monitoring and management software package routine inside of the current perform industry. The opportunity to monitor the manufacturing of workers and measure the requirements of clients is an significant tiny business requirement. Enterprises benefiting from this application routine are often IT departments, managed service providers or BPO operations. Smaller corporations and independent contractors are realizing the energy of administration software package and investing in integrating this selection within just their day-to-day operation.

Remote monitoring software delivers the ability to view all activity by an employee or buyer. This laptop or computer software program is typically created especially to get a company determined by their wishes. The software system provides insight into the things to do on a regular basis employed and allows the employer to look for methods of enhancement which will encourage firm development.

IT departments take advantage of remote monitoring software to aid customers with technical troubles. The ability to seem at and performance on a customer's computer remotely is key to some IT qualified personnel. Consumers are provided with significantly additional than a resolution but a the peace of thoughts that the technician is able to glance at all the errors they have encountered. This alternative saves time for the vendor as well as the IT technician.

Managed services providers seek management software to aid utilizing the upkeep of many databases of info. Companies may possibly perhaps acquire management software package from the third party corporation that offers technical support for just about any troubles they could possibly come across. Managements software program system differs centered upon the enterprise needs of the institution, some corporations require laptop or computer software program that combines schedules or balances checkbooks. Various computer software program corporations offer alternatives that can be tailored.

BPO firms utilize the utilization of checking computer to observe their telecommuting staff. Many employees functioning from home are monitored mainly because of the applicant ions they use during little business several hours. The software is usually installed all around the telecommuting representative's personal computer system and is only activated when the user indications in to do the job for the BPO organization. Using this software program routine may seem to be like spy ware yet it provides businesses with the assurance how the vendor assistance representatives are only generating utilization of purpose connected resources inside course of a specific time.

Other telecommuting positions utilize monitoring software being applied for marketing purposes. Marketing and advertising and advertising firms seeking to supply info for web page views may perhaps utilize a application to count viewers to a specific website. Individuals utilizing social networks have turn out for being common with this technique primarily due to the fact they are able to allow a similar routine to observe the viewers to their individualized site.

Organizations hunting for to improve industry scores, produce a census amount for purchases or simply keep track of corporation developed to a website or establishment utilize management personal computer software package every single day. Experts are in the position to acquire certification from the out there software package package deal to present superior service for their employer. Very a few applications are made specifically for the business's expectations.

Buyers are constantly receiving the gains of remote monitoring and management computer software. Companies appear for using the plans to provide a lot superior customer care or analysis the expectations of customers. Many businesses may ask the client to participate within the use from the system to aid with improvements, yet each single consumer must know that some monitoring software can cause harm to safety procedures.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Advantages Of Initiating A Remote Network Management System

An efficient business organization requires the performance of many technological components. By introducing a network for the management of computer operations, businesses have been able to measurably increase profitability. The advantages of incorporating a remote network management system to administer ones network of computers are great.

 

One of the benefits of a remote network is that the system can potentially take care of ones computer network in its entirety. When a remote system manages ones computes, a business can potentially lend more focus to the other areas of business management. A the system monitors things such as the system server, program applications, security, internal connections, external connections, routing and hardware inventory.

 

Another advantage of a remote system is that networks can monitor the system twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. If the remote system encounters trouble, the difficulty is automatically reported. And, most systems can potentially keep track of issues surrounding the computer network which do not receive much attention. Issues which can potentially be monitored include energy levels, the temperature of the operating environment and the quality if the air. Remote networks can even monitor the wind direction.

 

Remote networks also offer enhanced security by allowing a business to manage the security level of its users on the network. Businesses are able to modify the access of end users at their convenience. And the remote system can produce reports that give details on individual computers or a report that encompasses the entire network. In addition, businesses can produce an audit which tracks the activity of an individual user or tracks all activity on the network. The information is record onto a detailed log and can be made available at any time. These options greatly secure a businesses computer network.

 

Remote management networks allow remote access to computers which proves to be very beneficial. Remote access to individual computers allows one to diagnose problems quickly without physically being at the site where the computer is located. The systems are able to notify any designated person of potential problems with a computers system in advance. This enables the designated person to determine a resolution before the computer goes offline which can prevent service interruption.

 

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.

 

A remote network management system is a good way to supervise computer assets and ensure the proper functionality of ones entire network. One can more efficiently monitor the computer system by knowing the status of every computer on the network at a moments notice.

System Management Software Basic Help

System management software is what is used to implement, manage and monitor distributed systems. The benefits can be massive, subject to the caveat that the company and its operations are big and distributed enough to warrant such a system. At some point of growth, it becomes unfeasible to run around doing manual deployment, collecting paperwork and electronic data, and then have dedicated staff working to maintain centralized records.

 

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: There are no ifs and buts as to the cost reduction capabilities, regardless of the size of the company. Even for small companies, the only caveat is whether or not the company is capable of buying system management software and hiring a sys admin. Once these expenses are taken care of, the benefits in the form of lower IT costs are immediate and long lasting.

 

But the possibilities are much bigger than this, since the system management infrastructure opens up pathways to install enterprise level systems such as ERP and enhance the client server IT architecture. This allows the company to expand its footprint, add new operations to the work flow and open branches which previously would either not have been required or would have been impossible to manage. Bottomline is that this is not just an IT help tool, but something which will ripple through the company's entire operation.

 

Security: System management has a huge impact on IT security. The same security settings are implemented on all stations, and any new policies are remotely implemented instantaneously on all the stations. Users can access any station and get the same settings and data, made possible by settings that apply to specific usernames and job or department levels. This makes the network more capable of withstanding external attacks.

 

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 summarize, the immediate advantages of using system management are very much real and the possibilities even bigger. End of the day, each company has to make an informed decision about this based on its own size and growth curve. A cost benefit analysis to figure out the ROI of system management software would be a good place to begin.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Your IT Worries Solved With Remote Management Software

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.

 

In the infancy of the development of personal computers, the Internet had yet to be discovered. Twenty-five years ago the term World Wide Web had yet to be invented. It was not until the early 1990s that the concept of the Internet began to evolve. It is safe to assume that the proposal left some non believers figuratively scratching their heads. What has become commonplace and taken for granted was once virtually incomprehensible for the average consumer.

 

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.

 

The advantage of these programs is that the expert can log on to your home computer or research any problems you may be having with your system. No need to travel across town or coordinate schedules. It is a real eye opener when the subscribing user experiences the RMS expert actually remotely taking control of the of the user's computer. The expert's ability to speak directly with the user and show actions being taken makes for an effective learning tool.

 

Training can also be done remotely. This can eliminate travel time and the costs associated with travel. Once RMS has been configured and the appropriate agreements are in place between the expert entity and the subscribing consumer user, the RMS expert can access the subscribing user's computer and intranet system anytime of the day or night. One advantage is that the subscribing user need not be present for this action to occur. In some instances it may be desirable for the user and the expert to be present at the same time, however it is not necessary.

 

Both the trainer and the trainee will be present for training sessions. Actual conversation between the two can take place as the consultant teaches the software application. And the training is one to one, so the trainee has the consultant's full attention. This process is much more effective than computer manuals that can be confusing and frustrating to the user.

 

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

How Many Jobs Exist In IT Managed Services

When one looks at IT managed services one can see that it is an area where the management of information technology is of key importance. However, what many individuals do not understand is that when it comes to managing IT, often it is done so strictly from the clients perspective. As such, quality of service provided is paramount to a good managed services team. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that those working in the field know and understand both the purpose of the team for which they work and the various contributions which such a team provides to clients worldwide. 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. However, with as quickly as technology progresses today, especially with all the new applications and processes associated with net books and smart phones, it can often be hard to stay ahead of technology when it comes to knowledge regarding same. Still, the more one can stay on top of new trends, the better chance one has of landing a job in IT both now and in the future. For, as technology advances, so too other areas of science and technology. Therefore, there is no doubt that individuals with knowledge are going to be some of the most powerful individuals in the world of IT. 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. Although, the phrase IT managed services has been around, basically since the inception of the Internet, it is not a proprietary phrase and at this point and time does not belong to anyone as a copyright. So, for now, many companies have labeled their IT personnel as part of an IT managed services department or team. To this end, individuals in this line of work often provide a great many functions related to Internet technologies over a large platform.

 

While process improvement and the increase in processing speed of downloads and other functions are a key part of managed services team responsibilities, assistance relating to products from vendors or technical assistance is not. Although, there are also business management functions, methodologies and frameworks associated with same. As such, this area of IT covers a large area, which at times, can be hard to define in its entirety due to the broad scope in which team members operate.

 

Whereas, operational concerns are also key in overall improvement are often related to information technology and are in turn seen as an integral part of operations architecture. Although, one may want to note that this area is different from internet technology development or application support. Still, it is a valid area in which automatic updates and other automatic processing are included. Therefore, it is still relevant when it comes to managed services as related to Internet technology.

 

To this end, software written for sale or development of microprocessors are not often seen as part of managed services team responsibility; However, systems used by business and marketing often are. Regardless, if one has the knowledge and power to withstand employment on a IT managed services team, most likely one is opening to the door to many other future opportunities as well.

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Software IT Management And The Ability To Meet Commitments

While there are times no doubt when an IT Manager or a member of an IT support team must be away from the office, this does not necessarily mean one can not still have access to files located at the location where a personal computer or laptop resides. Therefore, today one does not have to carry around a number of files as one can still gain access to information stored on a personal hard drive or company computers and servers. This is thanks to the advancement in Software IT Management and remote software technology which is now available for home, network and office computers worldwide.

 

Also, while remote applications have existed for some time, now individuals are using these remote assistance programs not only to access data and files but also as a way to create, deliver and manage a variety of software applications through efficient downloads from a variety of servers. However, one must be cautious though and assign password user ids to such a system in order to protect the privacy of the individuals and any data being used at the time. So, while it is a good thing that this software exist, it is also necessary to take extra safety precautions when using same.

 

Still, it can be of great benefit to be able to access data and files while away from the home office or workplace not to mention being able to provide applications to customers and others who may be working in the field. In addition, software related to IT Management can also help track product development, delivery and assist in seeing any issues in assigned scheduling in plenty of time to let the customer know if there are changes in delivery dates or other information.

 

As to what applications are included in this type of software, generally one can both access, download and upload information when using such IT management software. However, one need have appropriate access and knowledge of such programs in order to do so. This is where the IT team usually comes in and sets up user ids and passwords in order to protect customers, employees and any such information which may be being used at the time.

 

Other features include, the ability to access and troubleshoot customer software from a remote location, the ability to deliver download files of software security patches and upgrades and to have an ongoing virtual relationship with a customer base over time. As such, today there are several companies which offer a variety of IT management software. However, some are no doubt better for some applications than others. Therefore, it is good to know which applications one desires to use form a remote location before installing such software.

 

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.

 

As most individuals live in both a virtual and physical world in this day and age, many individuals may require assistance when it comes to troubleshooting applications. For example, when one notifies a cable or internet provider and the provider logs in to an account to assist with an issue, this is a good use of techniques related to such software. However, this is only one of many uses in which such software can be useful.

 

Although, whether one is going to use the software to access data files remotely, or to manage applications at a customer site from a remote location, there is no denying the value of such software. For, one can save a great deal of time and money when using software that allows one freedom from travel where possible by the use of remote applications and troubleshooting, not to mention having the ability to assist in problem solving by having a direct line to the company who provided such Software IT Management applications.

Friday, September 3, 2010

System Management Software Ideas For Offices

Network management software is a way to manage all of your internet connections with one system. Your office can connect several computers and wireless devices to one system for efficient and clean operation.

 

Before you install a network, you will want to carefully plan the system so you can incorporate all of the devices into it. A good manager will want to have all data regarding the operation of the devices recorded and accessible. If there are any glitches in the system or devices, it will be visible to the IT. At times, individual devices or the whole network will fail to connect, for example, and the reason will become obvious to the IT when he or she views the data.

 

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.

 

You may have several computers that work separately in your place of business. You would like to make it more convenient and upgrade the system into a synced system where all of the devices work together. Imagine 4 computers and a printer or copy machine all linked together. Anyone using any of the computers can print something out from their computer without leaving their work station. Several can plan to print something out at once by asking to print a document, which will go into a que and be printed when other jobs ahead have finished printing.

 

As you might imagine, this is a relatively complex system and when it runs smoothly it's very convenient and efficient. When one or more of the machines goes offline, or has a connectivity issue, you can only guess that this could be a nightmare for the IT that has to search out and discover the errant computer.

 

 

With a good software program to manage the system, though, the IT only needs to retrieve the data for the recent history of the system and should be able to diagnose the problem promptly and get everyone back online and in service.

 

Network management software, called NMS, is the heart of the system. It can make sure that all of your machines are connected and are continually on duty monitoring the situation. The devices all have data that they produce regarding the status of their connections. The software will collect the data and store it so that any trouble that occurs can be tracked by the IT and the problem solved. Many of the systems actually repair most common problems while they are occurring, making this the best way to manage your elements.

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Distant Full Screen Management Improves Efficiency

Take control of the computers in your network and beyond with the use of remote desktop management software. You can control PC's from a location that is remote from the computer that needs assistance. This is a great time saver for company IT's.

 

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.

 

Companies with multiple computers are perfect candidates for this type of management program. The IT seems to be the busiest employee in the company no matter where you work. A good deal of time is spent in walking from office to office to help with computer issues. Imagine the ability to resolve most problems remotely. The time saved could be significant. 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.

 

The tech will see a full screen desktop as it appears on the computer that is having the problem. Any screen shots the tech observes that could be significant to solving a problem can be saved. How many times have you received an error message only to forget which number the error states?

 

Whatever the computer user was accessing before the trouble began will be seen by the tech because he will be able to hit the back button, for example, just as though he was present in front of the computer. By seeing the operations prior to the crash or other problem the IT can make a better assessment of the situation and apply the appropriate solutions.

 

Once the trouble has been identified, the tech can then perform any action necessary to get the computer back to its running state. It can be shut down or restarted if necessary. It can be powered off completely or a hard reboot can be performed. Other possible functions are locking and unlocking, logging on or off, and launching or killing applications.

 

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. The middle of the road programs usually give the user those features in the basic programs plus more. The capability of shutting off the computer remotely, screen cast recordings, remote user chat options, lists of applications on the computer, performance data, inventory, and the ability to print the information.

 

A remote desktop management program that has all the bells and whistles will typically include everything in the basic and medium access type programs and more. They may contain the ability to create a PC schedule of file operation. There is an option for added inventory data such as processor info, disk drives, printers, OS hotfix info, and program folders.

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Patch Management Software Gives Security Choices For Today

Large corporations as well as small businesses have begun to turn to automated patch management software for security and updates. The average user has become used to the security updates and fixes and businesses have much more to secure against. The frequent patches and additions to the Windows operating system has accustomed the consumer to the need for fixes on a regular basis.

 

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 the software patch management programs have taken much of the burden off the workforce and allow these operations to be configured and executed automatically. Whether a company has two machines or an entire network of machines spanning the nation, the need is the same, to keep up to date. While formerly one or more employees might be dedicated strictly to updating and securing all the machines in a location, new software programs have freed them for more profitable duties.

 

This type of software will utilize a console usually on a single machine of a network. That console can control what fixes or patches are scanned for and how the patches are deployed throughout the system. Included in these software consoles are options also specify which from which sites a patch should be downloaded. Some management software companies maintain their own database of patches and fixes.

 

Not every machine on a large network will have identical software installed. These machines all may be used for different purposes and this influences what programs are installed. Patch management programs for businesses are able to scan each machine and identify what programs are present and may need patches as opposed to simply applying a set number of fixes or patches to all machines regardless of content.

 

There are generally two types of management software for patches. The first type is an agent based management solution. Management programs that use the agent have a program installed on each machine, which performs a scan of the machine. This agent then downloads and installs necessary fixes and then sends a message to the central machine concerning what programs are installed and updated.

 

Agentless management programs on the other hand are centralized. The main machine performs all the scans upon the network and initiates the actions to patch. While agentless software is certainly more centrally configurable and permits closer monitoring of network machines than an agent based option. The cost for these programs will be higher than that of the agent based solutions. They also will require more supervision than those with agents.

 

These alternatives have cut the cost of maintaining some security aspects of a large network. It has become popular even among home users. However, a business should consider their available bandwidth, work force, and corporate needs before deciding upon particular management program, since the differences are so striking.