Friday, September 17, 2010

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

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. As long as appropriate MSP software is in used, there are sure to be numerous benefits to such use with immediate remote control being a good example of what customers can expect. Such immediate remote control ensures that the company is connected to different devices in the shortest possible 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.

The Need For Managed Service Provider Software

To choose or not to choose has always been a dilemma since ages for mankind. The great bard had mentioned it in his classics albeit in a different fashion. Yet, the same holds true when we have to select between objects that offer similar facilities. With the information technology throwing up varieties in abundance on every conceivable issue, how to choose the best managed service provider software also has its share of selection dilemma. What are the basic benefits that one aims to achieve from this selection governs the reply to the question of how to choose the best managed service. Every managed service provider claims of certain basic features in their product and these all are well aware of. Providing information on the working of the network as well as a single point where the solutions could be implemented across the entire network. Every MSP software in the market today also mentions about it being customisable in order for it to adapt to the changing requirements of the business house.

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. 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.

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.

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. 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

Different Tips To Show You How To Choose The Best Managed Service Provider Software

It makes sense for companies to make an effort to find out how to choose the best Managed Service Provider software because pretty soon it will become necessary to buy protection against fraud. In addition, it is also a good idea to know how Managed Software Provider software can offer a solution to risk management and in any other way help address the company's main objectives.

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

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

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

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

Finding Deciding Benefits Of Remote Monitoring And Management Software

Several companies are considering the gains of remote monitoring and management software inside the existing activity market. The opportunity to observe the production of employees and measure the demand of customers is an important institution requirement. Businesses benefiting from this system are commonly IT departments, managed service providers or BPO operations. Small enterprises and independent contractors are realizing the power of management software program system and investing in integrating this decision in their everyday operation.

Remote monitoring software shows the ability to view all activity by an employee or vendor. This software is often created specifically to get a company based on their needs. The application offers insight into the actions typically utilised and makes it feasible for the employer to appearance for methods of advancement that will encourage institution progress.

IT departments utilize remote monitoring software to aid shoppers with technical complications. The capability to appear at and carry out on the customer's personal computer system remotely is important to some IT specialists. Buyers are supplied with much additional than a resolution but a the peace of mind how the technician is able to view all of the mistakes they've encountered. This option saves time for that customer as well as the IT technician.

Managed services companies seek management computer to help with the maintenance of many databases of information. Corporations may perhaps acquire administration application from a third party business that presents technical guide for any troubles they may encounter. Managements software program plan differs dependent upon the business desires of the group, some institutions have to have personal computer software package that combines schedules or balances checkbooks. Various computer system software corporations provide options that might be customized.

BPO corporations utilize the usage of keeping trail of software to preserve course of their telecommuting staff. Many employees working from house are monitored simply because of the applicant ions they use all over business several hours. The laptop or computer software program is usually set up with the telecommuting representative's personal computer and is only activated when the user signs in to purpose for your BPO enterprise. The use of this software may well perhaps appear like spy ware however it presents enterprises with the assurance that the buyer assistance representatives are only employing carry out connected components all over a specific time.

Other telecommuting positions utilize keeping observe of system being employed for promotion and marketing functions. Promoting and marketing firms seeking to current details for web site views may possibly utilize a software to count viewers to a unique internet site. Individuals using social networks have convert out to become familiar with this method because they're in the placement to enable a similar program to observe the viewers to their individualized site.

Companies browsing for to enhance industry scores, produce a census number for purchases or merely retain trail of business developed to some web site or establishment take advantage of administration pc application every day. Experts are able to acquire certification in the obtainable pc software to produce a lot superior assistance for their employer. Many plans are made specifically to the business's expectations.

Individuals are usually receiving the gains of remote monitoring and administration software. Businesses look for using the applications to provide considerably far better consumer care or review the wants of buyers. Loads of corporations may perhaps ask the purchaser to participate in the use from the system to help with improvements, however every single buyer should understand that some monitoring software can cause injury to safety approaches.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Advantages Of Utilizing A Remote Network Management Arrangement

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.

 

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

 

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

 

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.

 

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

 

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

Monday, September 13, 2010

Beginners Guide & Advantages 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.

 

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 security updates and software patches can be administered quickly and simultaneously to all stations, thus reducing chances of the system going down or being attacked. Anti-virus software and malware protection can be installed on an enterprise network level, which provides more protection. Centralized data storage and backups on servers offer greater safety and reduce chances of data corruption or data loss due to hardware problems.

 

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 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 Positives Of Utilizing Automatic Programming

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 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 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.

 

Using these programs you could end up getting more items done than you thought possible. That means that you are going to be more productive which the increase in productivity on your part could end up leading to you making more money at the end of the day. So rather than just having to sit around for hours on end doing the same job you can do the other things that your going to want to do.

 

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

Working With Remote Management Software To Handle Computer Problems

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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.

 

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.

 

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

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

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.

 

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.

 

Although, with as fast as technology moves, sometimes it can be very hard to keep up with challenging competitors and new and exciting trends in the area of IT. Still, it can also be a good time for one to get their foot in the door as the future is technology to some degree. Regardless, if one can learn the ropes in relation to IT management, one may have a very bright future when it comes to finding employment. Of course, the more one stays on top of new trends in technology, the better the chance. 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.

 

With regards to terminology, IT managed services, as of now is not proprietary and does not belong to any individual or company. However, it is a phrase and title that is used quite often. Most likely because the phrase states the definition of what an IT management team does, manage services to clients with products associated with IT services. As such, it has become a well known phrase whose origin remains unclear at this point and time. Whereas, another IT management function within the realm of IT management is a process focused system which works to increase processing speed of various applications, downloads and other processes. In addition, methodologies, frameworks and business process management are all aspects of this division of a managed services team. Last but not least, the process also focuses on providing a format in which other activities relating to IT and IT personnel 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. To this end, although some software written for sale or microprocessors may not fit into this area of IT, other software and systems used by marketing and small businesses may very well. Regardless, whether one is working for a company, using a product provided by the company, or is an employee of an IT services team, most likely one is going to see a number of opportunities of interest within the field. So, while one may come on board as a member of a team, one can always continue to learn and grow and possibly go even higher up within the realm of IT if and when one desires to do so.

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Understanding Software IT Management Programs

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

 

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

 

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.

 

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 Management Software Programs For Businesses

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

 

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

 

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.

 

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.

 

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

 

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.

 

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 Computer Management Improves Expedience

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

 

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. The transfer speed can be rather high to make this a quick process. The remote computer is accessed through the network connection. Applications can be changed, updates performed, and downloads placed on the recipient's desktop. Any function can be done while the user is connected and without closing whatever is being worked on. 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. Performance can be monitored remotely and information can be recorded as needed. The technician will be able to see what the user had been accessing before the problem occurred. This can be an immense help in the troubleshooting process and allows the tech to make a quicker determination of the problem.

 

When the tech has isolated the problem with the computer, an action can be commanded remotely as appropriate to the repair process. The computer being repaired can be rebooted, shut off, locked or unlocked, programs launched, or applications stopped.

 

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.

 

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 Provides Security Solutions For Today

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

 

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.

 

Software for managing patches is available for the business, which has two computers, or for the corporation with a large network and multiple machines. In both cases security and protecting company assets is a prime concern. The latest security patches are essential, and software to manage them can ease the task while still providing the latest security fixes and updates on each machine.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.