AUSTIN, TX––(Marketwire – October 27, 2009) – ManageEngine, makers of a globally renowned suite of cost effective network, systems, security and applications management software solutions, today announced the release of Desktop Central version 7, web–based desktop management software with new capabilities designed to curtail bandwidth usage associated with managing desktops across a wide area network (WAN).

ManageEngine Desktop Central V7 features new Distribution Server software. This piece of the ManageEngine solution is installed at the branch–office level where it maintains copies of the most recent patch and software distribution binaries, as well as a desktop configuration repository. The Distribution Server is automatically synchronized with the application’s central server at user–defined intervals. With all vital executables now residing on a local server, IT administrators can automate the distribution of service packs, applications, and more, across their environment, without ever using the WAN link.

Desktop management in a geographically disparate environment is now possible without worrying about slowing enterprise WAN performance. Valuable network bandwidth can remain available to support mission–critical business operations.

"The Desktop Central Enterprise Edition allows deployment of remote caching servers for all interactions with our local client PCs and servers," said Jon Sanderson, Group Technical Director, Cynetix Group Ltd. "This reduces the bandwidth requirements to a very low level and allows reliable operations over very skinny and potentially unreliable connections. The web interface is a Godsend as our engineers are now deploying configurations on distributed desktops and creating reports in minutes that used to take hours. The return on investment period also looks quite impressive, too."

"Bandwidth utilization is a major concern for enterprises managing desktops at multiple locations," said Mathivanan Venkatachalam, director of product management at ManageEngine. "Each new desktop that is introduced at a branch office will add bandwidth overhead and costs. With the new Distribution Server, Desktop Central becomes the ideal fit for large enterprises, and because the software is so affordable and easy–to–use, SMB⁄SMEs with multiple work locations can also benefit."

ManageEngine Desktop Central is a comprehensive desktop management suite offering complete PC lifecycle management, including software deployment, patch management, service pack installation, asset management, remote control, system tools, user logon reporting, Active Directory reporting and configuration management. It is a network–neutral solution that can be used to manage desktops in Microsoft Active Directory and Microsoft Workgroups, as well as other directory services-based networks, such as Novell eDirectory.

Availability & Pricing

Desktop Central Version 7 is available now for download directly from the ManageEngine website at http://www.manageengine.com/products/desktop-central/index.html. Pricing starts at $1,295 for 100 systems. The company offers a 30–day fully–functional enterprise evaluation license. A permanent Free Edition is also available for small businesses who need to manage up to 25 computers.