Third-party Windows desktop management tools worth considering

Group Policy can centrally manage Windows settings and enrollment configurations in the domain, but is not the best solution for all desktop management requirements. Maybe some of the machines in your organization aren't in the domain. Perhaps the user's computer is not connected to the corporate network, but you still want to manage the machines. Maybe you need a better report than a simple Windows log.

Although there is a System center, but this is an expensive solution. Other technology vendors have filled the gap in the Microsoft ecosystem. Let's look at how the following three Third-party desktop management tools help windows businesses.

Desktop 8

Zoho's software department, ManageEngine, says 5,000 customers use only their software to manage nearly 1 million of desktops, so the product has some appeal in the marketplace. Like Windows Intune, Desktop 8 is a web-based application that manages Windows 2000 through Windows 7, including all server versions.

The desktop management software does not require a traditional domain environment and is suitable for managing lab machines, running professional production and monitoring equipment, and the staff's home machine. Desktop 8 covers software deployment, patch management, resource management, and Windows Remote Desktop Sharing. Also manages service pack deployments, configurations, generates Active Directory reporting when using domains, and manages other reporting tools.

Prices range from a 295 dollar desktop management function to a limited Standard edition to a 695 dollar feature that can be efficiently managed across multiple regions. The exact price depends on how many desktops are managed, starting at the initial price from 50 PCs.

Quest Workspace Desktop Authority

ScriptLogic was bought last year by Quest, claiming that administrators manage 10,000 desktops as simple as managing 10 units. Quest workspace includes modules for various parts of the desktop management process, including asset management, patch and malware detection deployments, and web-based remote administration. It also includes password self-service, software packaging, privileged account monitoring, and other configuration support.

Quest Workspac supports Microsoft virtualization technology and applications and virtual desktop configuration packaging. For example, you can set a specific user to log on to a Remote desktop server on a remote desktop, instead of logging into a virtual desktop publishing or a normal physical desktop. Desktop authority is also web-based, and the user interface is simpler than the complex Microsoft Management Console.

The software has three versions-Basic, standard, and professional-and has a free 30-day trial version.

Kaseya

Kaseya products with the same name can also be used in system management. The company name itself is in the area of management services--some small and medium enterprise consultants provide Kaseya licenses for all customers ' desktops, so they can be managed remotely without field access.

There is no reason not to use Kaseya within an organization because some of its system management features are ideal for departments that want to use several controls. The Kaseya suite includes support for auditing and inventory, monitoring, and patch management. It also supports desktop policy management and extensive reporting.

Unfortunately, Kaseya usually sign up for subscriptions, so there are often monthly or quarterly authorized payments. However, from an automated point of view, Kaseya is well worth considering.

In addition to Microsoft, have you ever used other Third-party desktop management kits? Did you succeed or fail? Is it worth paying for them? Please share your experience here.