: Client Mgmt Suite 5.5">
| Usability |
Fair |
| Capability |
Excellent |
| Performance |
Good |
| Interoperability |
Good |
| Manageability |
Good |
| Scalability |
Good |
| Security |
Good |
Altiris Client Mgmt Suite 5.5 is an integrated operating system deployment, asset tracking and remote control tool set that helps IT managers upgrade PCs and mobile computing devices while also offering the ability to transfer user settings, thereby cutting migration costs. This version of the product boosts the role of handhelds by making them more manageable and also by using handheld devices to provide remote control trouble-shooting services.
COST ANALYSIS
The acquisition costs are a little high, at $76 per license, but not that far ahead of the competition. The product should quickly cut maintenance costs, particularly for shops that are facing a big migration from Windows 98 (or 95) to either Windows 2000 or XP.
(+) Integrates operating system deployment and migration tools with other client management components that should make desk-side services much easier to maintain.
(-) Application deployment is not as strong as competitive products; some procedures, such as handling complex customizations, require extra effort to work correctly.
EVALUATION SHORT LISTNovells ZENworks for DesktopsLANDesk Softwares LANDeskwww.altiris.com 
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(+) Integrates operating system deployment and migration tools with other client management components that should make desk-side services much easier to maintain.
(-) Application deployment is not as strong as competitive products; some procedures, such as handling complex customizations, require extra effort to work correctly.
EVALUATION SHORT LIST
Cameron Sturdevant has been with the Labs since 1997, and before that paid his IT management dues at a software publishing firm working with several Fortune 100 companies. Cameron also spent two years with a database development firm, integrating applications with mainframe legacy programs. Cameron's areas of expertise include virtual and physical IT infrastructure, cloud computing, enterprise networking and mobility, with a focus on Android in the enterprise. In addition to reviews, Cameron has covered monolithic enterprise management systems throughout their lifecycles, providing the eWEEK reader with all-important history and context. Cameron takes special care in cultivating his IT manager contacts, to ensure that his reviews and analysis are grounded in real-world concern. Cameron is a regular speaker at Ziff-Davis Enterprise online and face-to-face events. Follow Cameron on Twitter at csturdevant, or reach him by email at csturdevant@eweek.com.
