Friday, September 17, 2010

Why Employ Genuine Appropriate Software For Cost Effective Network Management

MSP software for cost-effective network management is a necessity because today computing is an essential part of everyone's daily life. Commerce without computing would be unthinkable today and this is why businesses are looking to using the best processes in order to manage finances more effectively. Computing is now more widespread and affects businesses the most. It is therefore imperative that a business, in order to prosper and grow, finds and uses proper technology with which to make more informed decisions. There have also been many significant improvements in technology today that are helping to propel businesses farther and are helping to manage greater 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 choosing MSP software it is necessary to ensure that that the software has suitable features. There are several features to look for including remote control, monitoring of devices as well as SLA and patch and even desktop management, and more.

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. Some features that are desirable in MSP software include being able remotely patch up servers and desktops. It should also be able to distribute (automatically) software and scripts to remote servers and PCs.

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.

Managed Service Provider Software: The Features And Advantages

When the time comes to select between near similar items, everyone faces a dilemma. The bard of English literature had also drawn a similar expression in his classics which could be rephrased to state to choose or not to choose, that is the question. Long after a decision has been finalised, the lingering feeling of uncertainty persists. This dilemma is prevalent in the information technology field too and therefore the question of how to choose the best managed service provider software is indeed one worthy of consideration. 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. However effective or proactive the MSP is, given Murphy's laws of probability the chance of a breakdown yet occurring on the network is rife. Quick response and speedy restoration in the event of such an occurrence on the network is the mark of a good MSP.

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. 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. 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

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. A good reason why it pays to find out how to choose the best Managed Service Provider software is that the right software will help in managing the company online website more efficiently. There are however many things that need to be done including dealing with security and backups as well as data storage. Managed service provider software is able to handle all these issues for the company in the best manner possible. 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.

With the help of MSP software it is easier for companies to control customer servers as well as desktops and in addition the software can also take care of networks, and much more.

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 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.

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. 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

Realizing Improving Benefits Of Remote Monitoring And Management Software

Several firms are contemplating the gains of remote monitoring and administration application within the existing employment industry. The chance to monitor the production of individuals and measure the wants of persons is an vital corporation requirement. Organizations benefiting from this laptop or computer computer software are commonly IT departments, managed service providers or BPO operations. Slighter businesses and independent contractors are realizing the power of administration pc software package and investing in integrating this option in their just about every day operation.

Remote monitoring software gives the potential to seem at all activity by an employee or client. This application program is often created specifically for the corporation based on their needs. The software provides insight in to the things to do often widely-used and permits the employer to seek methods of enhancement that will encourage organization enhancement.

IT departments utilize remote monitoring software to aid shoppers with technical issues. The capability to view and perform on a customer's laptop or computer system remotely is critical to some IT qualified personnel. Buyers are supplied with additional than a resolution but a the peace of thoughts that the technician is in a very placement to glimpse at all the mistakes they have encountered. This option saves time for the buyer as well as the IT technician.

Managed services companies seek administration application plan to aid making use of the upkeep of several databases of details. Firms may well perhaps acquire administration computer from the third party company that delivers technical aid for any issues they may can come across. Managements software program routine differs based upon the business demands with the organization, some firms demand computer software software that combines schedules or balances checkbooks. A selection of computer corporations offer alternatives that may just be tailored.

BPO companies make use of using checking software to watch their telecommuting staff. Really a few employees working from home are monitored belonging to the applicant ions they use during enterprise several hours. The computer may very well be installed in regards to the telecommuting representative's desktop and is only activated when the user indicators in to work for that BPO dependable. The usage of this application may perhaps perhaps look like spy ware however it delivers businesses with the assurance how the purchaser service representatives are only using do the job related materials all through a specific time.

Other telecommuting positions utilize monitoring pc software being employed for advertising reasons. Advertising and marketing and promotion corporations browsing for to provide you with information for website views might perhaps make use of a software program program to count viewers to some distinct net page. Individuals making a request social networks have turn out to be common with this technique mainly due to the fact they are able to enable a similar routine to investigate the viewers to their individualized site.

Businesses hunting for to improve market scores, produce a census amount for purchases or merely keep observe of business created to some internet page or establishment utilize management application each day. Experts are able to obtain certification from the obtainable application to provide much better assistance for their employer. Pretty a few programs are produced specifically for the business's wants.

Individuals are normally acquiring the gains of remote monitoring and administration application. Companies glimpse for the use of the plans to produce a great deal greater customer care or investigation the wants of customers. Quite a few businesses may properly ask the purchaser to participate within the use inside application to assist with improvements, yet every single single purchaser will need to know that some checking software can bring about damage to protection techniques.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

The Advantages Of Establishing A Remote Network Management Arrangement

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.

 

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.

 

Also, remote networks offer allows designated individuals to access other computers on the network remotely. The advantage of having the ability to access computers remotely is that technical support can make a diagnosis of a problem without physically going to the place that the computer in need is located. The person designated to receive notification can receive notices well in advance of potential issues on the network. With the ability to access computers remotely, a business can prevent computer interruptions.

 

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.

 

The key benefit of a remote network is the ability to monitor many computers in a network at once. Businesses with multiple computers have the option to store passwords for speedy admission to any of their computers data system. With this kind of precision, one can effectively determine the urgent technical requirements of their business computers.

 

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

Monday, September 13, 2010

Basics & Potential Of System Management Software

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.

 

Once system management is implemented, the process becomes more streamlined. The automation starts offering immediate benefits. It enables reduction in IT staff levels and improves security and information sharing among employees and departments, and with the data already centralized, the reporting and monitoring process becomes a lot easier.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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.

 

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

Friday, September 10, 2010

The Benefits Of Using Automatic Items

While you operate your business you know that your going to have many different things to take into consideration. However, you could find that some of your work can be taken care of by using automation software. The problem is that you might not know all of the positive aspect of using these programs.

 

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 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 positive is that you can have more free time to get the things done around your office that you have been putting off for months at a time. So you could end up finally getting caught up on all of those old records that have been falling by the wayside. Then you are going to be able to get all those updates done around the office as well and enjoy the new paint in the office.

 

Something else that will be nice is you can find these programs are readily available. For most of the things that you are going to be doing you will find that you can get the programs easily. However, they might cost some money it will be money well spent since you will be able to get more things done quickly.

 

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

 

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

 

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

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Remote Management Software A Practical Solution To Your IT Problems

Remote management software is an idea whose time has come. There are more software applications than you can count, and operating systems are continually getting updated. Consequently the role of the computer consultant is more important than ever to the computer user. With the addition of each new computer to your network and each new application, the chance of software conflicts is to be expected.

 

Text books for early versions of computer classes had pictures of main frame computers that took up an entire room. In those days only computer programmers had any real grasp on how the computers functioned. With the advent of the personal computer and the continual refinement of wireless access, things have changed in a big way. The computer user of today is typically pretty savvy when it comes to understanding the basic functions of their computer. Yet sometimes computer applications are changing and being created with such great speed that the typical user may be a little overwhelmed by the new software.

 

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.

 

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.

 

Remote management is an excellent method for training new employees. The savings can be significant, as the consultant has virtually zero travel time. Lack of travel also frees up the consultant to serve more users on any given day. The subscribing user can be at home asleep while the consultant works out the issues for smooth sailing for the upcoming work day. Communications with phone calls and emails can easily fill in any gaps that may occur. Significant time can be saved when problems are quickly resolved.

 

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.

 

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

Where Is IT Managed Services Going Tomorrow

To understand the benefits and challenges of IT managed services, first one must understand the business that is Internet technology. For, while some individuals have great knowledge of internet technology, many others are looking to enter the field in the near future due to the great success of the Internet over the years. In addition, with so many new applications and services being offered, the more one knows about technology the better chance one has at obtaining such a position in the future.

 

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.

 

Of main concern in relation to process improvement is the operational concerns related to information technology which, at times, has also been referred to as operations architecture. However, this area of IT management is in no way related to technology development. Regardless, it is an important area nonetheless in which many IT support personnel are required. Another area of concern in this area is automated services, for while some clients prefer automatic updates, others dislike the process with a passion. However, it is still advised that companies opt for automatic updates with an option to turn off such updates when necessary. 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

Why Use Software IT Management Remote Software

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.

 

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.

 

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

 

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

 

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.

 

In addition, when one uses such software, one often sees greater flexibility in scheduling, higher speeds of processing and an overall competitive nature when it comes to supplying such software. In addition, one can also see greater manageability, security and customer service by using such management software. To this end, this can often be important software for anyone working as an IT Manager or as part of an IT management team.

 

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

Network Monitoring Software Ideas For Companies

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.

 

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

 

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

 

 

With the right software you will see that your employees responsible for keeping the machines running smoothly will have an easier time doing so. With the information at their fingertips they will be able to collect the data and find out which component is causing the error. Then they'll be able to diagnose the exact problem as it relates to the whole system.

 

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

Remote Full Screen Management Enhances Expedience

The idea of using remote desktop management is to control PC's from a location other than in front of the computer itself. This method of management is convenient for those that may have trouble with a computer and can't take the computer in to a technician. 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.

 

This works well for larger companies, too. Imagine the busy IT having the ability to access the computers used throughout the building to troubleshoot an issue. The problem could be fixed in very short order without him or her having to physically walk across the company campus to access the computer with the glitch. These tasks can be more efficiently accomplished with the use of a high speed transfer rate that's available in the remote programs. The applications on a computer can be updated or changed, performance checks performed, or downloads can be deposited onto the recipient desktop. The user doesn't need to close what is being worked on for the tech to access the computer. The programs all feature full desktop screens so that the tech is seeing exactly what the user is seeing. Any error messages that come up can be captured in screen shots to make troubleshooting easier. Diagnostics can be run to check and improve the computer's performance. 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. When the tech has isolated the problem with the computer, an action can be commanded remotely as appropriate to the repair process. The computer being repaired can be rebooted, shut off, locked or unlocked, programs launched, or applications stopped. There are different types of remote desktop control software. Some provide only the simplest access and some provide full access including the override of a computer completely. Basic access levels include the interactive access and the capture capability for screen shots.

 

The next level program might also have the ability to chat with the computer user, monitor speed and performance, and access the inventory of the computer and print it all out. It would also include the features in the basic model. 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 Allows Automated Security Answers For Now

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

Most computers on the network have specific functions and some will have different programs to carry out those functions. A management program for fixes and patches can scan the system and update those programs requested. Unlike a macro the programs can be configured to scan each machine or their own contents and then apply only those patches which are necessary for that specific machine.

 

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

 

The other type of common program is that which is in one central location with a single machine managing all aspects of the updates. It will scan each machine on the network, determine the needs of the machine, retrieve the fixes and apply them. While this solution is located in a single machine and configurable it usually requires much more supervision than the agent based solution.

 

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.