Desktop Configuration for Managing Network Systems

Desktop configuration is part of the overall concept of desktop management. This management concept applies to the managing of small, medium, and enterprise class computer networks. In these networks, hundreds, and sometimes thousands, of computers must be maintained, which is not a simple task. This is where desktop management comes into the picture. A desktop management system allows an administrator to manage and configure desktops from a central location. On the surface, this appears to be an ideal solution. However, there can be some drawbacks.

To better understand these concerns, this article discusses the benefits and problems associated with desktop management solutions in regards to desktop configuration. It will also discuss some of the tools and components used in desktop configuration.

Desktop Management Benefits

The most obvious benefit of desktop management solutions is the capability of the software to configure vast numbers of computers. For some enterprise systems, computers are spread out over different floors, different buildings, and even across the world. Therefore, it would be physically impossible to give each and every computer the care and upkeep that it needs. Without this system, the primary user would have to maintain and troubleshoot problems, which is not a good idea given the expertise needed to handle certain problems.

Another benefit of this management process is being able to keep up with software updates, patches, and other configuration requirements. In addition, the process allows the administrator to standardize such things on the desktop as shortcuts, wallpaper, and file structure. It also offers a means of knowing which computer has what type of software installed.

This information is important when it comes to making sure that licensing agreements with software vendors are being followed. This administration process can also be used to determine if unauthorized software has been installed. It also helps to simplify managing and tracking of software and hardware inventories.

Desktop Management Problems

 

Upgrading computers across the network is a major advantage of desktop configuration software. However, there are times when major updates must be installed. This is usually done at night to ensure minimal disruption to users. Even though announcements are generally made ahead of time, there are usually several individuals who are still using their computers. Since most updates take place in the background, the user is unaware of what is going on.

A worst case scenario is that a major project is lost during the restarting of their system. This type of problem comes down to compliance by users. If users do not follow the guidelines set forth, their careless disregard for these rules can have consequences that have disastrous results for the users and the company as a whole.

Another problem has to do with the mobile user. The challenges in this area arise from being able to deal with those individuals who are working from home, staying in a hotel, or using an airport or public hotspot. Each could encounter problems in which they do not have access to the network, which would bar an administrator from dealing firsthand with the problem. Their only option would be to call the IT department for support and hope that IT can talk them through their problem.

Also, since certain computer access to the local user is usually restricted, the user may not have enough privileges to deal with the problem even with IT support. In this scenario, how does the desktop management system deal with this unique, but real-world problem?

Desktop Management Tools

Even though desktop management tools may not be able to easily cover every problem that may be encountered by the user, the software definitely has more benefits than drawbacks. Because there are so many software packages on the market though, the question becomes how does management choose the right package for their company, especially when the package needs to manage an enterprise-size network? First, however, they need to know what to look for in a desktop management tool. To assist them in this endeavor, management should look for the following items, as these items are the basic components that are found in a well designed desktop management tool.

• Web-base Access Tool:
  This allows administrators to connect to the user regardless of whether the users are on a local network or accessing the network over the web.
• Tool to Track Hardware and Software Assets:
  This part of the management system helps the administrator in keeping up with the company's assets.
• Tool to Remotely Install and Uninstall Software:
  This option helps administrators to keep software current
• Tool to Remotely Configure Desktop Settings and Security Policies:
  This option helps to ensure consistency throughout the network.
• Tool to Remotely View and Control Desktop:
  This option allows the administrator to view what the user is seeing, which helps both the user and the administrator better communicate and diagnose problems.

As for specific software packages, you can easily search the net for companies and look at their customer list and the details about their software.

In addition to having software packages that provide a wide range of support, these companies also have clients that require the management of hundreds of systems. Given the diverse manner in which businesses can be run, having a vendor that supports multiple desktop configurations may be just the edge that a company needs to stand out from others in their business sector.