New Small-Business Solutions Added
For the first time, Intel has molded Intel vPro Technology in a form to specifically fit the needs of small businesses, those whose computer systems are likely managed by someone with no computer background at all. Designed for businesses with less than 25 notebooks or desktop PCs, Intel® IT Director offers a user-friendly "dashboard" that provides status on key system settings and health parameters, capability to block connection to risky USB devices and a data back-up feature that enables users to work seamlessly through hard-drive failures.
For small businesses which periodically need immediate help with PC problems, Intel unveiled Intel® Remote PC Assist Technology that connects those businesses with service providers that can assist when an end-user enters a key sequence. Once connected, service providers can take full advantage of the out-of-band capabilities, and security and management features of vPro Technology to solve problems remotely. For the service provider, Intel Remote PC Assist Technology means enhanced service delivery, reduced operational costs and broader access to customers. Initially, Intel Remote PC Assist will be available in North America.
Intel also introduced two motherboards supporting all of the new Intel® vPro features. Aimed at channel customers, the Intel® Desktop Board DQ45CB is for standard-sized PCs and the Intel® Desktop Board DQ45EK is for small- form-factor systems.
Creating New Computing Models for Security, Manageability
Many IT organizations are looking to new application delivery technologies to strengthen security, improve management and lower total cost of ownership. Dynamic Virtual Client technologies (DVC), Intel's designation for a new group of computing models, work in conjunction with Intel vPro Technology to centralize data security and application management on a server, but "stream" applications on demand to a desktop or laptop PC where they run under the PCs own processing power. In this way, DVC preserves user mobility and performance, simplifies IT management and security, and, unlike thin-client models, does not require a large-scale burden on the datacenter. Citrix, Lenovo, and Microsoft recently announced DVC products or programs that take advantage of Intel vPro technology.