: ZENworks for Desktops 4">
Executive Summary: ZENworks for Desktops 4
| Usability |
Good |
| Capability |
Excellent |
| Performance |
Good |
| Interoperability |
Fair |
| Manageability |
Good |
| Scalability |
Excellent |
| Security |
Good |
Desktop and mobile PC management converge neatly in Novells software distribution, inventory and remote control management suite. This means that IT managers can finally standardize on a single PC management platform to provide resources and enforce standard desktop policies, without having to hopscotch from one management platform to another. Look for this phenomenon to continue to spread to other major-league management vendors.
COST ANALYSIS
ZENworks for Desktops 4 brings the sky-high price of managing mobile PCs down to earth by charging the same, much lower, $69 price for both desktop and laptop systems. The real savings will come from obviating redundant systems to accomplish the basic task of keeping systems current and running, regardless of how they connect to the network.
(+) Doesnt rely on the Novell Client on each managed PC; combined desktop and laptop support.
(-) Most features depend on Novells eDirectory, which means one more directory in the network.
EVALUATION SHORT LISTMicrosofts Systems Management Server 2003LANdesk Softwares LANdeskAltiris eXpress Client Mgmt Suitewww.novell.com/products/zenworks/desktops/ 
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ZENworks for Desktops 4 brings the sky-high price of managing mobile PCs down to earth by charging the same, much lower, $69 price for both desktop and laptop systems. The real savings will come from obviating redundant systems to accomplish the basic task of keeping systems current and running, regardless of how they connect to the network.
(+) Doesnt rely on the Novell Client on each managed PC; combined desktop and laptop support.
(-) Most features depend on Novells eDirectory, which means one more directory in the network.
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.
