ScriptLogic Updates Desktop Manager
Desktop Authority V8 adds off-hours management, Windows Server support
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ScriptLogic Corporation, a systems lifecycle management solutions provider for Microsoft Windows-based networks, released Desktop Authority 8.0. With new desktop management capabilities including scheduling and Wake-On-LAN, ScriptLogic’s comprehensive desktop lifecycle management solution provides flexibility for managing Windows desktops -- and now servers -- across networks of any size.
Desktop Authority 8.0 reduces the cost of managing Windows computers and eases the IT administrator’s support burden throughout the desktop lifecycle by providing the granular control organizations need over desktops, servers, and applications to increase efficiency. For example, Desktop Authority V8 lets IT manage desktops regardless of whether a user is logged on to that desktop, allowing patching, software distribution, and other changes to take place overnight or at any time on the IT administrator’s schedule.
ScriptLogic also introduced Desktop Authority System Center Edition for users of Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) or Systems Management Server (SMS). This edition of Desktop Authority offers a cost-effective complementary solution for users of SMS or SCCM and contains a feature set which includes desktop configuration and logon script replacement, remote support, power management, and optional USB and Port Security, Anti-Spyware, and Password Self-Service.
Enhancements for Comprehensive Systems Management Across the Enterprise
New Agent for Computer-Based Management: Desktop Authority 8.0 now operates at both the computer and user level, allowing IT administrators to install software and service packs, patch computers, collect inventory, or run executables independent of user logon. Desktop 8.0 also adds new timing events for management actions including computer startup and shutdown events. Used in conjunction with ScriptLogic’s Validation Logic, IT administrators have granular control over every Windows computer.
Support for Managing Windows Servers: The addition of computer-level management means Desktop Authority 8.0 can now be used beyond the desktop on Windows servers. IT administrators can use a single solution, Desktop Authority, to inventory hardware and software, patch servers, run applications, and install new software automatically across all Windows computers.
Wake-On-LAN: The new Wake-On-LAN feature lets IT administrators configure computers to "wake" at a scheduled time based on subnet, IP address, or computer name. Combined with computer-specific management, Wake-On-LAN allows administrators to wake computers automatically, patch them, and perform other operations, then shut them down automatically for energy-efficient management of computers outside of regular business hours.
New Anti-Spyware Engine: To enhance its security functionality, which includes tools for patch distribution and USB and port security, Desktop Authority’s Spyware Detection and Removal option now features a new anti-spyware engine that can detect more threats using much smaller signature files. For IT admins, the new anti-spyware engine means less bandwidth and time used updating malware signatures.
Enhanced Remote Support Features: Version 8 features a new Web-based remote support console that extends Desktop Authority’s industry-leading remote support offerings to the help desk. The new, optional Internet Gateway also allows administrators to support users when they are off the network, and connected to the Internet.
Pricing and Availability
Desktop Authority 8.0 and Desktop Authority System Center Edition are available now. Free 30-day evaluations of these products are available at www.scriptlogic.com. Desktop Authority is priced on a per-seat basis and volume discounts are available. Desktop Authority customers with current maintenance agreements will receive a complimentary upgrade.