Friday, September 17, 2010

Why Employ Best MSP 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 has become ubiquitous today and every business today is heavily dependent on computers. Therefore, businesses which want to grow must ensure using the right technologies which can help them make the right choices. Technologies are also improving at a rapid pace and these improvements are leading to better growth in businesses that are now able to deal with higher workloads in a more efficient manner.

The use of MSP software 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.

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

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.

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.

There no doubts the fact that unless and until companies succeed in optimizing network management round the clock they will not find success to the extent that they really should. It hardly matters what size the company is because each can only benefit from using cost effective network management. It is therefore necessary that only the best and most appropriate MSP software be selected so as to properly deal with complexities of a modern business.

The Features Of Managed Service Provider Software

In a different manner and context the bard of English literature had mentioned about the dilemma mankind faces when up for making a selection. Is this the right choice or not is the question that plagues the mind long even after having finalised the decision. How to choose the best managed service provider software for the network of an establishment is also one such issue that keeps everyone in a dilemma. The answer to this question of how to choose the best managed service lies in the aspect of what benefits do we wish to accrue from this selection. The basic features claimed in every managed service provider software are something all are well versed with. That it should provide information about the network and its working. That it should help in diagnosing the network problem and offer means to deploy the solution network wide from one single location. That it should be customisable to meet the changing needs of the business house and its operations are all well established facts and known to exist in every MSP software that is available in the market. How 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.

It is important to note that the client pays a third party for maintaining and monitoring its network resources. This is the basic business principle on which any managed service system works. The selected MSP should therefore be a proactive one. Waiting for an error or problem to occur on the network and then attending or rectifying it should not be the MSP's method of operation. The MSP should be such that it is able to sense the defect before it occurs and initiate preventive measures to stop the error from occurring and causing any harm to the network. If Murphy's Law is to be accepted, then it is a well established probability factor that a breakdown of the network is inevitable even with all proactive agents at work. The MSP in such a case should be able to respond quickly to the situation and restore the network back to its normal function swiftly. Data and applications that process the data are critical objects of an enterprise network. There would be need for the MSP to restore the system to a clean point just before the defect occurred. To do so, taking regular backups of the entire system by the MSP is a pre-requisite. This backed up data would be used by the MSP during the restore process.

IT field is a volatile and ever changing field. Market changes being brought to the notice of the management as well as advising how the same could be implemented on the existing enterprise wide network is also another factor to be considered while choosing the best managed service provider. An MSP with lax security features would be very dangerous to the health of the enterprise. Holes in the security of an MSP are vantage points for malicious programs to enter into the network and wreak havoc with the data and the application software too. MSP with high features in its security aspects is to be selected. Last but not the least, how efficient is the service provider itself and specially if referred by other sites where the provider has implemented some MSP would be a factor in favour of selecting a particular MSP.

These 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 Pointers To Show You How To Choose The Best Managed Service Provider Software

It is important for companies to learn how to choose the best Managed Service Provider software because sooner or later they will need protection against frauds. It is equally important for the company to understand just how Managed Service Provider software is able to provide solutions for risk management and also how well the software is able to address different company 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 (MSP) software can even offer a range of managed information technology solutions that companies of any size can benefit from. Before deciding on the best MSP software it is important to look at how well the software is able to offer solutions for management of web servers, management of IT services for better data storage and also how well they can take care of IT security. It is important to use MSP software because this software will help keep customer servers working better and it must also help handle customer desktops. In addition, the software must take care of networks and will also need to take care of hardware issues, software issues and it must even be able to perform inventory tracking as well. 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.

In addition to web servers and IT security, before choosing a Managed Service Provider it is also important to look at local options first. This is because local companies will be able to visit the company office and handle any tasks that have to be performed at the company premises at a more reasonable cost as compared to MSPs that have to come from a distance.

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. The bottom line is that as long as you are sure about how to choose the best Managed Service Provider software and you opt for a solution that is affordable you will find it easy to use the software to take care of complexities of today's business environment.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Finding Deciding Many Benefits Of Remote Monitoring And Management Software

Several corporations are contemplating the optimistic factors of remote monitoring and administration software within the existing work industry. The chance to retain course of the production of employees and measure the requires of clients is an critical group requirement. Businesses benefiting from this computer are normally IT departments, managed service providers or BPO operations. Small enterprises and independent contractors are realizing the energy of management application and investing in integrating this choice within their everyday operation.

Remote monitoring software offers the capability to view all activity by an employee or consumer. This software is commonly developed especially for just about any firm in accordance with their desires. The personal computer software package provides insight into the pursuits typically employed and makes it possible for the employer to seek methods of advancement which will encourage smaller business progress.

IT departments take advantage of remote monitoring software to guide customers with technical problems. The potential to view and execute on the customer's computer remotely is important to some IT professionals. Customers are provided with a great deal additional than a resolution but a the peace of thoughts that the technician is able to glance at all of the mistakes they've encountered. This option saves time to the purchaser as perfectly as the IT technician.

Managed services providers seek management application to guide employing the upkeep of quite a few databases of information. Corporations may possibly acquire management software from the third party company that presents technical assistance for just about any complications they may come across. Managements application software differs based upon the venture demands of the enterprise, some groups demand software package that combines schedules or balances checkbooks. Various computer software program corporations provide alternatives that might be customized.

BPO corporations take advantage of the make use of keeping track of software program program to verify their telecommuting staff. Pretty a few staff functioning from home are monitored via the applicant ions they use during modest business hours. The software can be set up in regards to the telecommuting representative's computer and is only activated when the user symptoms in to operate for the BPO corporation. The utilization of this application may appear like spy ware however it provides businesses with the assurance how the shopper service representatives are only generating utilization of work connected supplies all through a specific time.

Other telecommuting positions make use of monitoring software program program to be utilised for promoting functions. Advertising and marketing corporations searching for to existing data for web site views may take advantage of a computer system software program to count viewers to some unique web page. Individuals building use of social networks have come to be common with this method because they're in the placement to enable a comparable program to check the viewers to their customized world-wide-web site.

Firms searching for to improve industry scores, provide a census variety for purchases or merely preserve trail of company generated to a web page or establishment take advantage of administration application every day. Professionals are able to acquire certification within the accessible software to existing superior assistance for their employer. Plenty of plans are produced specifically for your business's needs.

Shoppers are constantly acquiring the benefits of remote monitoring and administration software. Corporations look for the utilization of the programs to provide higher buyer care or research the wants of customers. Many businesses may perhaps ask the purchaser to participate in the use with the software package to aid with improvements, yet each and every and each and every customer need to understand that some monitoring software can cause damage to protection techniques.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

The Benefits Of Initiating A Remote Network Management System

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 advantages is the management system can completely manage ones entire network. Network systems keep track of all the components such as the servers, programs, connections, the router and hardware. A remote network offers a business the opportunity to make other business management issues be the focal point.

 

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

 

A very great advantage is improved protection. Every user on the network can be closely protected by the management system. The access granted to each user can be changed at ones own discretion. A networking system offers businesses the option to receive a report on each computer or a system-wide usage report. Businesses can perform a system audit or record the actions of each user on a detailed log which shows all of the networks activity. By utilizing these features, a business can enjoy a more enhanced and secured computer network.

 

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

 

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.

 

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 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 Beginners Help

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

 

Bring in system management at this point, and the benefits are massive and will ripple across every part of the company's operations. It reduces staffing needs and IT costs, enhances security and information sharing, and makes it easy to centralize data, monitor employee actions and network usage.

 

Installation & Management: The biggest help, obviously, comes in the easy and automated installations and updates. A small company with one office and a few computers may find it easy to do installations one by one. But for a large and diversified company with hundreds or even thousands of computers, that's not a choice. Servers and system management makes automation possible and new installations are a painless process, needing no extra time or manpower.

 

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

 

Critical updates such as security patches for browsers and other software are automatically and simultaneously updated on all stations. This removes the threat of individual users ignoring update warnings for their own station. The same applies to updates for enterprise level anti-malware and anti-virus software. Hardware failure or data corruption on individual stations won't cause data loss because the data is being stored on servers with backup systems in place.

 

Monitoring: A huge improvement in monitoring capability is one of the biggest advantages here, other than cost effectiveness and automation. Since the data on the network can be monitored, it is possible to make adjustments to more effectively manage peak periods and down time. Employee monitoring helps management keep an eye on employees and detect work patterns.

 

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 Positives Of Using 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.

 

When you are looking at these you could find that they might cost you some money. However, the amount of time that you will have freed up by using them will help you out in getting the other task that you want to get done.

 

One positive is that your going to be able just put some information in and click a button to get it to do that action. Then you will be able to use that time to do the other things that you want to do. However, you could find that it will be so easy that you could forget that you even have it set up.

 

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

 

Something else 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.

 

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.

 

For some people they might have thought they had every thing running smoothly, but the work would take them hours on end to complete. However, once they discovered the positives of using IT automation software they are never going to go back to any other way of updating there business.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Working With Remote Management Software To Handle Computer 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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

Remote management can be effective for the smallest and largest of businesses. You may be a single user of a personal computer, or you may be the manager of a company with 300 networked computers. In either case, your remote consultant can keep work flow going and train employees to use new and updated applications.

 

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

 

Training can be another function of RMS. Sometimes new and unfamiliar applications can seem like a series of brick walls to the new untrained user. Remote training sessions can be set up where the trainer and the trainee are actually seeing the same screen. This allows for some practical experience, as opposed to merely reading a computer manual. Since the training is effective and efficient, the new user quickly becomes adept at the new application.

 

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

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

IT Managed Services Explained

If one looks closely at IT managed services, one can understand that it is an area where information technology management is key. Although, some individuals do not understand the many different process which exist as part of such a system. Therefore, if one is interested in becoming involved in IT, often one has to go through a great deal of education and training in order to do so. 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.

 

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. 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.

 

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.

 

While process improvement and the increase in processing speed of downloads and other functions are a key part of managed services team responsibilities, assistance relating to products from vendors or technical assistance is not. Although, there are also business management functions, methodologies and frameworks associated with same. As such, this area of IT covers a large area, which at times, can be hard to define in its entirety due to the broad scope in which team members operate. Still, of main concern to process improvement are concerns related to the operational aspects of IT. As such, this area of IT is not related technological development but rather automated service features such as automatic update processing and general processing of data. However, even with supplying automatic procedures, one can also choose to turn off such functions when such an additional application is provided.

 

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

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

How To Use Software IT Management Applications For Small Business

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.

 

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.

 

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

 

While these are the basic features of such remote software, other features include, access and troubleshooting of customer software from a remote locale, delivery of application files, security patches and software upgrades through a secured network and the ability to maintain a virtual relationship with the company customer base regardless of where such a business or office may be located.

 

As for which features are the best related to IT Management, these often include, but are not limited to, newer levels of competitiveness in business, flexibility and speed of processing. In addition, such software can help provide on time delivery of applications anywhere in the world as applications and upgrades can be easily downloaded from a variety of locations, excellent manageability, security and service assistance, all at a cost much lower than many others dealing in this area provide. Therefore, this software is an important asset for anyone managing an Internet Technology department as one can not only stay in touch with customers and employees remotely, one can also generally access data and files from a remote location in addition to having the ability to download a variety of applications.

 

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 Systems 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.

 

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 routine things that are checked by the company IT or technical team. The recorded data can alert the IT of any existing or potential future problem facing a device. The specific device will also be noted. The IT will be able to retrieve the information as needed and can use it for reference to fix a problem.

 

The role of a network management program is to collect all of the data regarding any devices that are connected. The data is recorded and is accessible to the technicians for analysis. Troubleshooting is easy because there is a viable record of what happened when. Any malfunctions can be flagged and dealt with.

 

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.

 

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 Enhances Prompt Repair

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. Larger offices and companies can make very good use of these programs. The company IT will be able to access the computers in the company from his or her office and will save time. IT's spend lots of time, traditionally, walking the beat of the office and going from computer to computer troubleshooting the machines and tuning them up for better performance. The programs available run on a high transfer speed so the process can be quickly executed. There is access of other computers through network connections. An IT or other person assigned to help with computer issues can remain in place and access your computer remotely. They will see your desktop just the way you see it. Whatever you may have been working on doesn't need to be shut down while the process is in progress. The tech will see a full screen desktop as it appears on the computer that is having the problem. Any screen shots the tech observes that could be significant to solving a problem can be saved. How many times have you received an error message only to forget which number the error states?

 

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. There are different types of remote desktop control software. Some provide only the simplest access and some provide full access including the override of a computer completely. Basic access levels include the interactive access and the capture capability for screen shots. The middle of the road programs usually give the user those features in the basic programs plus more. The capability of shutting off the computer remotely, screen cast recordings, remote user chat options, lists of applications on the computer, performance data, inventory, and the ability to print the information. A remote desktop management program that has all the bells and whistles will typically include everything in the basic and medium access type programs and more. They may contain the ability to create a PC schedule of file operation. There is an option for added inventory data such as processor info, disk drives, printers, OS hotfix info, and program folders.

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Patch Management Software Gives Update Options For Now

Patch management software has become a growing choice of corporations and businesses over the last few years. The Windows operating system and the frequent fixes got the consumer used to the idea of updating, and to limited automated software patch programs. The new patch management solutions bring this to businesses in a way that meets their security needs.

 

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.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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.

 

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