Distribution Server for Bandwidth Optimization

“The Enterprise version allows deployment of remote caching servers for all interactions with their local client PCs and servers. This reduces the bandwidth requirements to a very low level and allows reliable operations over very skinny and potentially unreliable connections.” Jon Sanderson , Group Technical Director, Cynetix Group Ltd.

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Most Businesses today are spread across the globe. As Network Managers you need to ensure the computers at your Head Office and Branch Offices are monitored alike. You will also need to manage the computers of roaming/mobile users who connect to your network via Internet.

Endpoint Central manages desktops that are geographically distributed from a central point. This includes computers that are located in a LAN, WAN and Mobile users as well. In LAN network, each managed computer will directly communicate with the Endpoint Central Server for pulling the instructions for performing desktop management activities and to update the status back to the server. Endpoint Central has introduced the concept of Distribution Servers to manage computer that are located in remote offices(WAN). This helps administrators to plan and control the bandwidth utilization and associated costs.

The figure below depicts the architecture for managing computers across WAN:

The Distribution Server located at the remote location synchronizes the Configuration/Patch/Software repositories with the Endpoint Central Server located at the Main Office at specific intervals. Now the WAN agents installed on the  desktops at the remote location can download the patch/service pack/software from the Distribution Server locally within the Remote Office LAN. This mechanism clearly addresses the bandwidth related issues and also improves the efficiency and control-level that network managers/administrators can exercise on the remote machines.

Advantages

• Low bandwidth utilization
• No separate VPN infrastructure is required.
• Secured communication between the Server and the Agent.
• Centralized management of computers from a single console.

When would you need one?

• Scenario 1: For multiple remote offices, installing distribution servers is advisable for better bandwidth optimization. A branch office with 3 endpoints ideally does not require a distribution server, but for 15 or more endpoints, it is recommended to install distribution servers to improve network performance.
• Scenario 2: In a single network with 1000 or more endpoints, it is advisable to install a distribution server for every 1000 endpoints. While a distribution server can handle up to 5000 endpoints, installing one for every 1000 endpoints helps reduce bandwidth usage and speeds up installation/download processes.

Is this feature available to all?

This feature is available in the Enterprise Edition of Endpoint Central. If you are currently using the Professional Edition and would like to use Distribution Servers in managing your remote office computers, contact sales@manageengine.com to upgrade or visit our Online Store for pricing details.