What is Altiris?

Altiris is a Desktop Management System and a tool that Information Technology Services (ITS) uses for security of campus computers, HelpDesk & DCS support of users, and inventory reporting. Altiris was installed on all campus computers on February 2, 2004. This installation did not require any user intervention and was fully automated. The Altiris implementation has been approved by both the Faculty and Staff Councils. Altiris ranked #1 desktop management suite in Network Computing magazine (11-13-2003 issue).

ITS has used Altiris to create images for the ITS labs since mid-2002, updating most labs daily. ITS will no longer have to install PC updates by using a floppy disk or CD. Altiris will also download updates over the network instead of requiring a visit to every PC.

How does Altiris work?

® Software is installed onto one PC by one ITS technician (i.e., with install CDs, etc.) to create a "master copy" for group of computers.

® This master-copy PC can be tested and optimized to eliminate bugs, incompatibilities, and any other unforeseen problems.

® When an administrator is satisfied with the master-copy PCs configuration, it is copied onto an Altiris server machine as a “disk image”.

® All PCs running with Altiris software can be automatically upgraded by utilizing the “disk image”. This is accomplished within a fraction of the time it would take to visit each and every PC.

What are some Advantages?

1. Typical install and upgrade of PCs takes several hours of manual labor but with Altiris, it takes minutes – TIME SAVINGS in LABOR is ENORMOUS!

2. Remote Control Functions- ITS HelpDesk and Desktop Computer Support (DCS) staff can examine problems without leaving their office.

® Users having trouble describing problems can grant permission for staff to remotely view their system. Permission must be given by the user physically present at the PC for ITS staff to remotely access, diagnose, and resolve problems.

3. Operating System install/upgrade- can be automatically installed from an Altiris server with no user intervention required.

® Example- “Personality Migration”- personal settings and documents saved.

4. Inventory Management- ITS can determine processor, operating system, hard drive size, programs and patches installed, etc.

® If upgraded Operating System is requested- Altiris can identify which PC’s need to be upgraded first based on need.

§ Example: To find out which Faculty and Staff PCs need the Operating System upgraded from Windows 98 to Windows XP, Altiris can generate a report within minutes.

® ITS can view an inventory management report from the Altiris system, and users will not be inconvenienced.