Software Update / Deployment

[TechMerlin]

Good Morning,

We are looking for a solution to remotely deploy software updates etc. to our remote servers (130+ servers, mixed 2000 and 2003)

These servers are based all around North America in different domains. Does anyone know of software available to use to remotely deploy in such an environment.

We would really like something that would be more off a 'pull' type approach from the remote servers from the main server as opposed to a 'push' solution from the main server.

Will SMS Server be of any use in this situation..???

Thanks


Mark Morton, MCSA, MCP, SNA, CCA

 

[tbrennans]

SMS would work fine for what you are trying to do.

Multiple domains no problem, multiple forests a bit harder but doable.

Although a fairly complex system, its quite effective. IMHO You would gain a lot by bringing Hiring an experienced employee or contractor to show you how to get the most out of it, if you had no experience with it.

 

[TechMerlin]

SMS uses a 'push' method does it not? as apposed to a pull method from the server needing the update.

Thanks

Mark Morton, MCSA, MCP, SNA, CCA

 

[globalstrata]

You can use Windows Software Update Services:

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserversystem/updateservices/evaluation/previous/default.mspx

Gladys Rodriguez
GlobalStrata Solutions
Computer Repair, Website Design and Computer Consultant
Small Business Resources

 

[tbrennans]

The problem with the pull technologies is that they have no granular control. All the clients will just "go" and your network is under thier mercy, where with SMS you can control what goes where and when.

In a small network this wont matter, in a larger on it matters a lot.

SMS will also do a lot more you (Hardware inventory, software inventory, software metering, but if you dont need that then its not that important, and perhaps something more basic would be in order.

Things like landesk are out there, but they will have problems with any updates that require a re-boot in the middle of the patch, like mdac patches or certain IE patches which they cant do, but like I said if you have a small network you can do those by hand.

I personally wouldn't base my decision on push or pull, but what do I know ;-) (no need to answer the last question!! :-D)

Tim B

 

[TechMerlin]

Global,

SUS will only do Microsoft updates

Thanks

Mark Morton, MCSA, MCP, SNA, CCA