Cloud-based management system Windows Intune Released

Microsofts Windows Intune, the cloud-based desktop management and maintenance system released. The software and service solution is available in 36 countries, with prices available from $11 per PC per month. Combining the hosted management system console accessed through a browser with a client application deployed to management PCs.

Windows Intune is one stop solution for

• Management deployment,
• Malware protection,
• Fault identification,
• Remote assistance,
• Security policy management,
• Inventorying management and
• Asset management.

As a cloud based service, it does not require on-site servers or other infrastructure, not even require a Windows domain infrastructure. Stand alone; non-domain-joined machines are supported. To access Windows Intune itself each subscription also includes a license for Windows 7 Enterprise, allowing organizations using Intune to standardize on this Operating System. For an extra payment of $1 per month per PC in US, each system will also have a license to use the MDOP suite, the MDOP suite has more advantages and management capabilities and virtualization features. There are two new MDOP features announced now. Microsoft BitLocker Administration and Monitoring, it is used to help manage and deploy BitLocker whole-disk encryption, and a new version of Diagonostic and Recovery Toolset.

Windows Intune is particularly for small business and IT providers; the management console allows multiple accounts to be managed, making it easy IT service providers to monitor and control multiple environments across all the customers from a single front-end. Microsoft is claiming big cost savings through use of Windows Intune. The company is citing an IDC report, says companies will experience a total saving of $702 per PC per year through the use of Windows Intune, a result of improved IT productivity and fewer problems for end users.

The pricing seems to be reasonable and functionality compelling. Microsoft appeared to be surprised ate the interest and rapid uptake of the beta, with thousand beta places filling up within 24 hours; the product is now for sale,the compelling functionality and reasonable pricing may win Windows Intune a lot of users among small and medium-sized enterprises.

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