As a support package, NetSupport Manager looks to have all the angles covered. It offers a comprehensive range of tools, with the majority neatly integrated into a single, intuitive interface. Selecting a host is simple, as you can browse the network and list all available clients or use specific characters or wildcards to narrow down the search. Doubleclicking on a client fires up a remote-control session or you can use a drop-down menu to start up a file-transfer session, passively view user activity, have a chat or send a message.
Multiple systems may be selected for file distribution, although, contrary to the documentation, this doesn`t deliver them simultaneously but to each client in turn.
Systems can be rebooted or powered down and those with Wake-on-LAN-compliant network cards may be powered up on demand. If allowed, users can also contact a control system for a chat or to place a request for help.
Installation is simple and a separate utility eases the burden of client deployment, although this only supports Windows NT, 2000 and XP systems. However, it may be used to install or uninstall NetSupport components and deliver licence and configuration files.
Apart from support for NT domain authentication, NetSupport looks after security itself and uses profiles to store various settings.You can decide what client interaction is allowed, hide all evidence of the client on their system and use encrypted keys to validate connection requests. Enabling web extensions causes the client to act as a simple web server, allowing it to be controlled directly via Internet Explorer.A scripting tool is provided for automating and scheduling
is provided for automating and scheduling support activities, and it`s possible to broadcast training sessions to multiple users with the NetSupport Tutor.
Inventory is a bonus, as this is included in the price, and we liked the high level of detail for identified hardware and software components.The information is presented in a smart report that can be exported to a CSV file, but the NetSupport inventory database can`t be searched if, for example, you`re looking for systems with specific components. Even so, each report also has sections showing active applications, processes and services and, with the appropriate security clearance, you can stop and start these on remote systems.
PRICE: 10 users, lb48 each, 100 users, lb34 each (all exc VAT)
SUPPLIER: Netsupport Ltd 01733 322505 INTERNET www.netsupportsoftware.co.uk
VERDICT: A quality product that`s very easy to use with an impressive range of features for the price. It even includes training tools plus hardware and software inventory.
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