ManageEngine Launches Desktop Central MSP

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According to ManageEngine: Desktop Central MSP offers software distribution, patch management, asset management and remote control, as well as configuration and system tools. It remotely supports up to 10,000 Windows-based desktops, laptops and servers. It starts at $795 for 50 computers under a single license.

Desktop Central MSP is part of ManageEngine’s broader MSP software portfolio, which includes:

According to ManageEngine, Desktop Central MSP agent-based. Remote computers can be managed in either of two ways: Directly from the Desktop Central MSP central server or through a distribution server which sits at each of the client locations.

Remaining Questions

I haven’t had a chance to speak with ManageEngine yet about Desktop Central MSP. I need to get a better feel for ManageEngine’s cross-platform strategy. I realize Windows still dominates about 90 percent of the desktop world, perhaps about 40 percent of the enterprise server world and maybe about 85 percent of the small business server world.

Still, Mac OS is finding a home on many corporate and small business desktops. MacBooks have a strong following. iPads and Google Android devices are popping up across the business landscape. And Linux servers control about 40 percent of the enterprise server world. (Source: My best guesses.) With all of those data points in mind I’m wondering if or how ManageEngine plans to support non-Windows devices.

Also of note: ManageEngine is a division of ZOHO Corp., which runs the Zoho SaaS business. Zoho has quietly emerged as a true rival to Google Apps and Microsoft BPOS (Business Productivity Online Suite), Salesforce.com and other SaaS platforms within many market segments. I’m therefore curious to know how ZOHO corporate may connect the dots between ManageEngine tools and Zoho SaaS offerings. The possibilities are intriguing.

I’m reaching out to ManageEngine now for thoughts on (A) cross-platform support and (B) potential Zoho synergies.

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