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 is also very widespread and will touch every business in some way or another. Therefore, modern businesses that wish to thrive have to use the best technologies so that they can make the right decisions. In addition, modern technologies are significantly better and are playing a major role in helping in dealing with higher workloads.

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. Before actually selecting MSP software it is important to establish that it boasts of appropriate features. For example, it must be able monitor devices, work remotely, and should address issues such as patch and SLA management as well as desktop management and more.

The right MSP software must also have tools for remote management which will help in managing customers in a more effective manner. In fact, such features would provide maximum benefits when it concerns handling time and material customers and will also be useful for handling customers more proactively, especially when response times need to be short and quick. 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 is in fact nothing better than for companies to optimize their network management capabilities 24/7 and unless these companies achieve these goals they will not be able to grow or realize their full potential. It is absolutely vital to choose MSP software very carefully because only the best software will ensure that results will match expectations and provide your organization with desirable results as well.

How To Choose The Best 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 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. 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.

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.

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. Data in the correct hands is wealth and when it lands into wrong hands is the primary reason for the company or organisation's ill health. The MSP therefore should have a robust security tier in place, sniffing and guarding the system from any malicious threats. 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 could be taken as the guidelines on how to choose the best managed service provider amongst the many that would be offering their services.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Some Pointers To Reveal 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 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. It is important to use MSP software because this software will help keep customer servers working better and it must also help handle customer desktops. In addition, the software must take care of networks and will also need to take care of hardware issues, software issues and it must even be able to perform inventory tracking as well.

The right kind of MSP software is one that is easily set up and which does not require having to do any staff training or adding hardware before the software will run properly.

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.

Besides handling things such as IT security and web servers, the managed service provider software should also be one that is sourced from a local vendor. Doing so helps ensure that should it become necessary to get onsite help, then dealing with local suppliers will prove to be more affordable than if the vendor is located somewhere far off.

With the help of managed service provider software more than 80 percent of computer problems can be taken care of and the software can also monitor and support and troubleshoot problems right around the clock.

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 Locating Many Benefits Of Remote Monitoring And Management Software

Various groups are considering the rewards of remote monitoring and management application within the current activity market. The chance to retain observe of the production of employees and measure the wants of clients is an important business requirement. Corporations benefiting from this laptop or computer software are commonly IT departments, managed service providers or BPO operations. Modest businesses and independent contractors are realizing the power of administration software and investing in integrating this option within their everyday operation.

Remote monitoring software features the ability to view all activity by an employee or consumer. This application system is often created specifically for any organization based on their would like. The software provides insight to the pursuits on a regular basis utilized and permits the employer to appearance for techniques of enhancement which will encourage business progress.

IT departments make use of remote monitoring software to assist customers with technical issues. The potential to look at and work on the customer's computer remotely is essential to some IT qualified personnel. Shoppers are provided with more than a resolution but a the peace of mind that the technician is in a placement to glimpse at all the mistakes they have encountered. This decision saves time for the customer as perfectly as the IT technician.

Managed services providers seem for administration application plan to aid using the maintenance of loads of databases of particulars. Companies might nicely acquire management computer system software program from a third party organization that products technical help for any issues they may perhaps experience. Managements software package differs centered upon the venture needs in the dependable, some corporations need personal computer application that combines schedules or balances checkbooks. Distinct computer software organizations offer alternatives that can be customized.

BPO institutions utilize the usage of keeping track of software to monitor their telecommuting employees. Very a few individuals functioning from home are monitored by the applicant ions they use during organization hours. The software may just be mounted inside the telecommuting representative's laptop computer or laptop or computer and is only activated when the user signs in to purpose to the BPO corporation. Using this application may possibly perhaps seem like spy ware yet it presents groups making use of the assurance how the shopper assistance representatives are only using run related components inside the course of a distinct time.

Other telecommuting positions make use of checking software being used for advertising and marketing functions. Marketing groups searching for to existing details for web page views may possibly utilize a software to count viewers to some unique internet site. Individuals building utilization of social networks have come to be common with this particular technique generally since they're able to enable a comparable routine to observe the viewers to their customized net site.

Companies searching for to enhance market scores, produce a census array for purchases or simply keep track of corporation created to some site or establishment utilize management software every single and each and every day. Professionals are in the position to obtain certification from the out there application plan to provide superior assistance for their employer. Very a few programs are made mainly for the business's demand.

Customers are typically getting the benefits of remote monitoring and administration software. Corporations appear for using the programs to provide significantly far better customer care or analysis the expectations of shoppers. Many businesses may perhaps properly ask the consumer to participate in the use of the application to help with improvements, yet just about every buyer should realize that some checking software can bring about harm to safety methods.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

The Benefits Of Launching A Remote Network Management Structure

There are many technical aspects of a businesses computer information system which work collectively to keep a business running effectively. By introducing a network for the management of computer operations, businesses have measurably increased profitability. The benefits to instituting a remote network management system to manage ones computer information system 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.

 

A very large benefit of a remote network system is that of better security. Remote networks give businesses the ability to manage each user on ones network. The accessibility of an end-user can be remotely modified at any time. Network systems offer reports on individual user accounts or a system wide user report. One can conduct system audits, track user activity and potentially produce a thorough log of all actions on the network. This functionality can provide a business network that is much more secure.

 

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.

 

Remote network systems also offer the ability to perform gateway and mesh networking. Gateway and mesh networking give a business the capability to manage files and perform network printing on their internal network. In addition, with gateway and mesh networking, one can effectively manage electronic devices. Devices which can be managed include kiosk terminals and P. O. S. Registers. By utilizing a remote network, ones computers and devices can function together seamlessly.

 

Another major benefit of remote networks is that they allow a business to manage a large number of its computers. Passwords can be stored locally to allow quick access to remote computer anywhere on the network. With this type of transparency, one can see the condition of the network and the technical needs of the business more immediately and effectively.

 

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.

Monday, September 13, 2010

System Management Software Newbie Reference Guide

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.

 

This is where system management comes into the picture. If feasible, the company will benefit in all aspects. This includes lower IT and staff requirements, improved information sharing, enhanced security and the ability to automate monitoring and data collection.

 

Installation & Management: The biggest benefit is in the form of automation of new installations and upgrades. If a company has 10 computers in the same office space, it's not that hard to do installations individually on each station. But that's out of the question for companies with hundreds or thousands of computers housed at different locations. When a company starts using servers and system management software, the whole process suddenly becomes automated, and needs less staff and less time.

 

Cost Reduction: First of all, no company, big or small, needs to worry about not benefiting from system management. The only debatable point is the ROI related to the cost of the software and paying a system administrator. Regardless, once implemented, it cuts down the need for IT staffing and other related expenses on a long-term basis.

 

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 helps enhance security in various ways. For starters, universal settings can be deployed on all stations, and users can be granted access based on their username and job description, regardless of which station they use. It also helps in keeping the system safe from external attacks and hacking.

 

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.

Friday, September 10, 2010

The Benefits Of Utilizing Automation Software

While you know that running your own place can be a great thing to do, it can also be very stressful at times as well. However, you will want to know the reasons to use automation software to help you reduce that stress so you can run your business while at the same time still having a life outside of work.

 

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 reason is they can give you more free time to do the things that you cannot automate on your business. For example you might not be able to automate answering the phone. However, this software will be getting the work done that you need to do while at the same time getting the other important things done as well.

 

Something else that can be enjoyed by using these is you can find they are easy to find. So you could find that you will just have to do an internet search to find them for almost any topic that you have. By finding them easily you are going to be able to set them up and have them running for the task that you want to have done without having to search for days on end.

 

The software can often be found covering many different things. You might think that these is going to be specific to only a certain thing, but you could find that they are actually going to be covering many different things to help you out. Some of the programs are going to be automatic submission things, but other things could be an email program so you can stay in touch with your customers.

 

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.

 

While you might have heard of this type of programming before you might not have considered the benefits of using IT automation software. Once you have found the benefits of using this type of software your going to see that it can be a great time saving method for you while your at work.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Remote Management Software Use Your Browser To Find Off Site Support

In today's world of quickly evolving computer applications and operating systems, remote management software may be just what you need to solve your computer problems. When computer science was in its infancy remote access seemed impossible. Thanks to the ingenuity of many creative minds the expertise of your computer expert is just a few mouse clicks away.

 

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.

 

RMS has several functions. You can expand access to your networked computers (Intranet) to the great big world of the World Wide Web, i. E., the Internet. With relative ease and for a minimal cost, users of personal computers and Apple computers can have access to a computer expert knowledgeable in their particular application or operating system.

 

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.

 

Whether you are operating a small or large business, or even for your own personal use, remote management software has a lot to offer. It saves time, it saves money and it allows for the building of virtual teacher and student relationships that will serve you or your business well.

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Coming To Terms With 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.

 

In order to succeed however, one must understand the various applications and processes that the managed services team uses and the service such a team provides. Of course, one function is to upload any security patches or software upgrades so that clients can download such data to their site remotely. In addition, often these individuals are key in staying connected with client personnel through a virtual network. In doing so, both companies can see a great deal of savings on time and travel as a benefit to such application. 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. Although, one must have a clear understanding of both challenges and benefits associated with applications and processes in this area of IT. As such, the more applications and software programs along with hardware knowledge one has the better. For, regardless of the position within an IT department one holds, whether working for a client or a member of a managed services team which works with such a client, an individual is going to gain valuable knowledge over time and as always, knowledge equals power which one can most likely use both now and in the future.

 

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.

 

Still, of main concern to process improvement are concerns related to the operational aspects of IT. As such, this area of IT is not related technological development but rather automated service features such as automatic update processing and general processing of data. However, even with supplying automatic procedures, one can also choose to turn off such functions when such an additional application is provided. 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

Where Is Software IT Management Going In The Future?

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.

 

As such, while it can be quite beneficial to have the ability to work and manage software from a remote location, individuals need be very cautious while doing so. For, generally one is also working with company information which may be confidential or proprietary in nature; Therefore, one does not want to run the risk of allowing such information to slip into the hands of a competitor.

 

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.

 

Such software also generally allows an IT team or customers to better understand any issues which may be going on with the software. In addition, one has the ability to update information so that customers can later download the data for review, deliver any application security patches or upgrades from a remote location and compile a variety of technical reports.

 

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.

 

To this end, while one can always download applications to a laptop or personal computer from a variety of websites, it is the company providing such downloads who most likely is going to be using IT Management software. However, there are also features on many such products which also allow one the ability to access personal files from a remote location in case one is on the road and discovers that one needs additional information or discovers a document or document requires revisions before one can deliver a final copy. Therefore, whether IT Management Software is being used in order to keep in touch with customers and provide automatic updates to security patches, software and other information or whether one needs to access files from a remote location, this is definitely the software one needs to look for if one is involved in an IT department which requires one to stay connected while both at the office and during times away.

Friday, September 3, 2010

Network Management Software Systems For Corporate Use

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.

 

Management tasks should be performed in the planning stages of a network system. The various protocols are recorded and implemented and the devices that are connected will be discovered by the management software. The software will also be able to see problems existing with the connections and which devices are causing or experiencing the issues that keep them from connecting.

 

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.

 

The responsibility for the maintenance of the system ordinarily lies with an IT, or information technologist. This is the party that everyone calls when they can't connect to their server or their device is not communicating with the rest of the devices in the network. If the IT has the quick access tracking of all the devices on the system the problem can be more easily isolated and subsequently, solved.

 

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.

 

There are many complex issues to deal with when you connect several devices at once, but with a management system that is designed to work on these issues, the complexities no longer stump the entire office staff. Searching out the problem was once difficult at best, but can be much easier with the right software.

 

 

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.

 

When you use network management software to run your network you will find out that you wish you'd set one up sooner. When the software collects the data relevant to each component of the system, it records all of it in specific detail. The IT will be able to retrieve the data when troubleshooting or even while doing routine system checks.

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Distant Desktop Management Enhances 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.

 

Since you can count on someone remotely to fix your computers, you will find that you won't have to pack up the machines and haul them down to the repair shop. If you have several computers in your company pool, you won't have to run the IT ragged going from work station to work station. 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.

 

The programs available run on a high transfer speed so the process can be quickly executed. There is access of other computers through network connections. An IT or other person assigned to help with computer issues can remain in place and access your computer remotely. They will see your desktop just the way you see it. Whatever you may have been working on doesn't need to be shut down while the process is in progress.

 

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 Answers 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 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.

 

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.

 

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 two broad types of management programs for patches that are used in both businesses and for home users. The first is an agent based patching solution. Agent based means simply that a small program is resident on each computer and scans the machine it is on, downloads the necessary patches and then reports to a central computer. This method is bandwidth intensive but mostly automated and efficient on a large scale.

 

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.

 

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.