Friday, September 17, 2010

Why Employ Genuine Best The Right MSP Software For Cost Effective Network Management

MSP software can be used for cost-effective network management and in fact is a necessity today since computing is a central part of every persons normal life. With computers, commerce would not be as robust and vibrant as it is today and this is the main reason why so many businesses need to make use of the most suitable processes with which to manage their finances in the best manner possible.

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. 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.

Properly chosen, MSP software will provide useful tools that will help to ensure managerial functions are performed remotely and this means managing the customers will be easier, more efficient and more effective. The most notable benefits from using the best MSP software include proper handling of customers in more proactive manner and response times will also be very quick.

In most cases, MSP software has to be able to deal with more than 500 customer devices per single technician and it must be able to perform tasks automatically which helps in reducing costs of operations. In addition, the MSP software has to also provide improved and more consistent service so that customers are totally satisfied with the service they receive.

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.

Without a doubt, unless a company is able to optimize its network management 24 x 7 it will not be able to succeed to the extent that it should. Regardless of whether the business is small or large it can always do with some cost effective network management. The right MSP software in this regard will be able to address the more demanding as well as complex challenges facing modern businesses. Toward this end the MSP software needs to be selected according to how well it addresses core issues which include monitoring of critical resources in regard to their availability. In addition, it should be able to monitor threshold violations. Other services that need to be addressed include service availability and service response times.

Managed Service Provider Software: Its Benefits And Advantages

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 to choose the best managed service would be best replied if one measured how these basic features are transformed into reality, thereby providing ease of work load on the network manager as well as to meet the requirements of the business house. MSP's are third party vendors who carry out the job of managing the client's network against payment by the client. Any and every managed service system works on this basic business principle. It is therefore imperative that the MSP be of such calibre that it can sense the defect of the network even before its actual occurrence. In short a good MSP should be proactive.

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

Different Clues To Reveal 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 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 will also provide a host of managed information technology related solutions that will help companies of all sizes. In order to pick the right software it is essential that you evaluate how efficiently the software can solve problems relating to web server management as well as proper IT service management.

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.

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. The MSP software must handle more than web servers as also IT security because it is equally important to buy software from a local MSP. This is because in case there are problems for which the MSP must visit your office, then costs will be lower when dealing with a local MSP. 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. All that remains, when learning how to choose the best Managed Service Provider software, is to find an affordable solution and one that can handle complexities of modern IT business requirements.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Security Many Benefits Of Remote Monitoring And Management Software

Many organizations are considering the gains of remote monitoring and administration software from the existing career market. The opportunity to observe the production of employees and measure the wants of men and women is an critical business requirement. Corporations benefiting from this laptop or computer application are regularly IT departments, managed service providers or BPO operations. Small businesses and independent contractors are realizing the energy of administration application and investing in integrating this selection inside their every day operation.

Remote monitoring software provides the potential to glimpse at all activity by an employee or consumer. This computer software program is often designed especially for the corporation based on their requires. The software supplies insight to the things to do typically used and allows the employer to glimpse for techniques of improvement that will encourage company development.

IT departments utilize remote monitoring software to help consumers with technical troubles. The capability to view and execute on the customer's laptop computer or computer remotely is crucial to some IT pros. Customers are supplied with more than a resolution but a the peace of mind that the technician is able to view all of the mistakes they have encountered. This choice saves time for that client and also the IT technician.

Managed services providers seek administration software to assist employing the upkeep of really a few databases of facts. Corporations may perhaps acquire management application from a third party dependable that features technical support for any problems they may experience. Managements application program differs centered upon the enterprise needs on the company, some companies require software package program that combines schedules or balances checkbooks. Several application corporations offer alternatives that could be customized.

BPO institutions utilize using monitoring program to watch their telecommuting employees. Fairly a few employees working from house are monitored from your applicant ions they use throughout business several hours. The application program may be mounted in regards to the telecommuting representative's laptop or computer system and is only activated when the user indicators in to do the job for that BPO agency. The usage of this software package may well perhaps might seem like spy ware yet it provides companies applying the assurance how the purchaser assistance representatives are only using work connected materials during a specific time.

Other telecommuting positions make use of monitoring computer application being widely-used for advertising functions. Marketing institutions looking for to offer data for website views may possibly utilize a computer computer software to count viewers to a specific world-wide-web page. Individuals making a request social networks have change out being familiar with this method generally due to the fact they are able to allow a similar approach to observe the viewers to their personalized website page.

Institutions looking for to enhance industry scores, present a census amount for purchases or merely retain course of organization created to a web page or establishment utilize administration software program system just about every day. Experts are able to receive certification within the accessible laptop or computer software program to provide higher assist for their employer. A number of plans are made especially for your business's expectations.

Customers are always acquiring the beneficial features of remote monitoring and management laptop or computer software. Firms seek the make use of the programs to produce very much much better customer care or analyze the demand of individuals. Various businesses may effectively ask the client to participate within the use inside the system to assist with improvements, yet every single single purchaser have to know that some keeping observe of software can bring about harm to security techniques.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

The Advantages Of Initiating 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.

 

One thing businesses find beneficial is that most systems supervise the network from Sunday to Saturday, 24 hrs a day. Whenever a problem is detected, that problem is immediately reported. One can consistently monitor the operational issues that affect a computer system which are not often monitored on a regular basis. The network can monitor Issues which include computer power-levels, operating environment temperature, and quality of air. Remote system networks can even monitor 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.

 

Remote network management is a way to consistently monitor dozens of parameters surrounding the proper function of ones computer network. The ability to get a remote status at any time allows one to effectively monitor the entire system. Remote networks provide businesses with a level of efficiency that really displays their value.

Monday, September 13, 2010

System Management Software Basics & Potential

When a company has to install and manage distributed systems, it needs system management software. For a company that's large and has many operations in diverse locations with a huge number of computers, the advantage of using system management cannot be overstated. Without it, the company will find it hellishly difficult and expensive to do manual deployment and follow up on collecting paperwork and data from each employee 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: 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.

 

The savings start piling up because it is now cost-effective for the company to install new software and systems. Possibilities open up, including ERP and other enterprise level client server based architecture systems. The company has the capability to expand, move to distributed locations, and start adding new processes to its operations. What starts as an IT help tool ends up triggering massive changes in the company's work flow, distribution, reporting capability and productivity.

 

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.

 

Security patches and critical updates can be done instantaneously on all stations without any extra effort or manpower, which reduces the window that attackers can use to take advantage of bugs. The network gets centralized enterprise anti virus and malware protection. Even the data is more secure as regards hardware failure or data corruption, since everything is stored on servers with a backup system.

 

Monitoring: Monitoring capability on the network is one of the biggest advantages, in addition to the cost benefits and automation capabilities. The network can be monitored for both network usage patterns and employee behavior. It helps the administrators improve network capabilities, and the management to observe and follow employee work patterns and performance.

 

In summary, system management software is everything it is hyped up to be, and then some. While it has spectacular benefits and can accelerate the company's growth, the decision has to be made on a case-to-case basis. Each company has to do a cost benefit analysis and decide if the ROI is sufficient to warrant the change.

Friday, September 10, 2010

The Benefits Of Using Automatic 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.

 

Before you end up buying one of these programs you will want to know that they can cost you money. By knowing that and all that it will do for you then you can see just how good of an investment it will be for you. However, you will also want to make sure that you can have enough time to recoup the investment that you made.

 

One reason to use this is you can find that some of them are not going to require any input from you. That will be a nice thing because then you can just set it to do something at a certain period of time and it will be done. Kind of like you can set your virus program to do a scan once a day at a certain time period.

 

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.

 

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.

 

Your going to find that it will allow you to do more things that you thought possible. For example you might have used to only be able to get five articles done before and totally submitted in one day. However, with these programs you can get twenty of them submitted at one time and then be able to move on to the other task that you want in the afternoon.

 

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 Solution For Offices Of All Sizes

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.

 

The dawn and development of the Internet has brought mixed consequences. Users may loose some level of privacy and receive unwanted emails advertising unwanted products. Online social networking has created a haven for child predators. Despite these negative effects, sometimes there are useful and meaningful consequences to the Internet. Enabling computer consultants to resolve computer issues and learning challenges is certainly a good thing.

 

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.

 

With RMS your computer expert can remotely log on to your system or stand alone computer. This eliminates time wasted in travel and traffic. The RMS expert can actually see your computer screen as if he or she were sitting in front of it. With this method, the expert can usually solve your computer issues.

 

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.

 

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.

 

Whatever your personal computing needs are, a stand alone personal computer or a company with several locations and a vast Intranet of networked computers, remote management software may be just the right answer for you. You can save time, save money and keep the flow of business going strong.

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Knowing How To Define A Problem 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.

 

However, most important to success within the field is the ability to understand a variety of applications and processes which are used within this realm of Internet technology. These may include, but are not limited to, the ability to work remotely, providing uploads and other services which clients need in order to be able to download automatic updates and security patches to their systems. In addition, one also can stay connected with their client base over a shared network and can conduct business in the virtual realm rather than spending a great deal of money and time on travel. 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. 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. 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. 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

Software IT Management And Scheduling Product Deliveries And Updating Reports

When one looks at purchasing good remote Software IT Management applications, one can often find a number of providers. However, knowing which applications one is going to use is most likely the best information to use when making such a selection. This is because while most remote application software have similar capabilities, not all provide the same features. Still, as IT management remote software can allow one access to local data and files along with providing one the opportunity to serve a worldwide customer base with software security patches and upgrades, others may also have product and scheduling delivery features which some companies and individuals may also find quite useful, especially if working in the area of IT development.

 

So, although remote software has existed for some time, it is being used far more often and by many companies now than ever before. However, if a company is going to use such management software, one needs to be sure that appropriate passwords and user ids are assigned to all employees who may be using such a program from a remote location or downloading applications to a customer location. For, when doing so, one protects both oneself, the company and the customer.

 

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.

 

Applications for such software often include, but not are not limited to, software which allows a company to stay connected to their customer base by providing automatic software updates to products which a user has purchased. However, it is advised when using such a feature that one also include the ability to turn off automatic updates when desired, such as during heavy downloads or software upgrades. Still, if one is going to use a software package on a long-term basis, it is often good to accept automatic updates to assure one does not miss any important security patches or other software updates over time.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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 Programs For Home Networks

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.

 

There are also issues that may arise that will not be so obvious as a failure to connect. As an IT does routine checks any variance or odd behaviors on the part of any device or system component will show up in the inspection of the data that is recorded. This allows for a proactive role in management. Potential problems can be headed off before they cause real trouble.

 

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 many different types of machine connected to one system. Printers, desktops, laptops, pda's and any other wireless device or usb device can work together. This is a particularly convenient way of doing business. All devices can be set up to sync data so anyone looking at any one of the devices can see the same information as it is updated or there is new data entered.

 

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

Remote Computer Management Creates Prompt Repair

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.

 

The idea here is that if you are having issues with your computer you can contact an IT or computer repair shop to help you repair it and get you back to work without dismantling the office and packing up the computer to take it to a 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. 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. 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.

 

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.

 

Many different levels of this type software exist and you can choose the one with the features you need. The basic level programs will usually allow the remote access and interactive features. Screen shots can be seen and saved. 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. 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 Solutions For Today

Patch management software has become more popular over recent years with businesses both large and small. Frequent fixes to the windows operating System fix security issues and sometimes add functionality to the programs. They have also gotten the consumer used to the fact that most programs require patches.

 

Most home users will enable automatic updates for the Windows operating system and this is a specific and limited type of patch management software. There are many more programs on almost every computer which also require patching. For the larger company or business, this can be a time and labor intensive job keeping up with patches and securing the system.

 

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.

 

These programs usually have a special console and it may well be located on a single master machine on the network. The master console can determine which programs should be patched and which should be overlooked. The user can also determine from which website a patch should be downloaded.

 

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.

 

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.