What is the best valued Sys. Mgmt. Software?

[CAPPBC]

Hey guys, I'm looking for the best software for my needs. I have 5 different sites with a DC. I am looking for a software mainly for patch management and configuration. I have been looking at Altiris. I think SMS will be to expensive.

I have Win2000 servers with xp clients. We are a non profit agency and funds need to be best used effectively. I need something that will do the job with no hassle but not cost and arm and a leg. Any thoughts?

http://www.altiris.com/Products/PatchManagementSolution.aspx

 

[Hondy]

Is WSUS no good to you?

 

[CAPPBC]

thanks...it works ok for updates but i wanted something new and more elaborate. I think I am going to try Altiris.

 

[kmcferrin]

We are a non profit agency and funds need to be best used effectively. I need something that will do the job with no hassle but not cost and arm and a leg.

it works ok for updates but i wanted something new and more elaborate.

What happened to no hassle and low cost? Once WSUS is set up it's easy to use, and it doesn't cost anything. If you were looking for more functionality than just patching then I could see paying for something else like the full Altiris suite, but if all you want is patching WSUS is more than good enough.

 

[markdmac]

I agree with Hondy and kmcferrin. Unless you are looking to do packaging, WSUS is the way to go.

WSUS will require very little ramp up time to confiure it, while using Altiris, Tivoli or SMS will require specialized skills and constant work to maintain.

I hope you find this post helpful.

Regards,

Mark

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[CAPPBC]

I agree with everyone. Thank you for the input. I was interested in something more than just WSUS. But being the other systems need constant action and attention, I will stay with WSUS and use scripting to configure what I need done. Thanks for the input and advice. Take care.