Software

Windows System 8.1

• [ 2013-08-10 ]

• Source :http://www.techradar.com/1171850 

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  One of the big questions around the prospects for Windows 8.1 in the workplace is how well it will fit into the management of employees' mobile devices. Many businesses are ready to go along with the trend towards 'bring your own device' (BYOD), and they will have to think seriously about how they can manage devices that run on the new operating system.

  The core issues are how existing mobile device management (MDM) systems will be able to manage Windows 8.1, and what else can be done if you also have Windows Server 2012 RS, the accompanying server and cloud platform.

  IT admins will probably be encouraged by the provision of a lot more management options within Windows 8.1 than Windows 8. Some need upcoming versions of Windows Server, but Microsoft is building key mobile device management standards into Windows 8.1 (includingWindows RT 8.1 for mobile devices), so it should provide more control for any MDM system.

  This includes those already widely used to manage smartphones and tablets, such as MobileIron, AirWatch or Microsoft's own Intune service, but there will be an advantage with Windows 8.1.

  • Check out the security improvements for Windows 8.1.

  Using such systems usually involves installing a management client on a device, and Windows RT devices will only work with Intune. But Microsoft is building an agent that supports the open OMA-DM standard and the Simple Certificate Enrolment Protocol (SCEP that Apple uses for iOS management). The agent will be within Windows 8.1 and Windows RT 8.1, which will make it possible to manage the systems through the same software, and in many cases with the same policies.

  This will include using the agent to change some settings in Windows, and although Microsoft hasn't yet revealed which ones, it will be possible to distribute wireless and virtual private network settings, including the certificates needed for virtual private network connections. There will also be a function to run reports on which devices are connecting, and whether they have up-to-date anti-virus software and the latest Windows updates.

  If a business has apps that it wants its employees to use, such as an expenses reporting tool, it will not have to go through the Windows Store but can sideload them into Windows 8.1 and Windows RT 8.1 devices and send out any updates.

   

  

   

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