Managed Desktop Services

What is a Managed/Standarized Desktop Services:

Standardization of the Dell desktop/laptop models and configurations ordered by administrators to achieve price economies, simplify support, centrally manage university initiatives ie. GreenIT and provide higher levels of support
Establishment of standards for software and security/power controls (for example, automatic screen-saver settings; hard drive encryption; installation of Altiris, the managed desktop agent) that will be automatically installed prior to delivery to the user
Improved tracking of assets
A simplified ordering process via a separate Dell Premier web page that will guide administrators through these standard choices and provide online ordering functionality
- Advantages:
  - Negotiated cost savings on standardized bundles
  - Consistent implementation of policy-mandated security controls
  - More effective and efficient support of standardized models, configurations
    - Procurement Process:
      - CUIT/Procurement management of standard configurations and pricing with input from all functions
      - Open access to Dell web page to view models, request optional features, and obtain quotes
      - Limited access to authorized individuals to place orders
      - Delivery of workstations to specified addresses. Verification of shipped model and final installation of additional software by designated (existing) IT support staff

The Ordering Process:

When you need to order a new Dell, you will choose from the standard configurations, an e-quote will be created, and an automated workflow will route the request to the appropriate approved buyer.
Once an order is approved and a purchase order is completed, orders will be shipped to a central location where your IT support team will inventory the machine and configure it to meet Green IT and Security goals.
Accompanying this move to standard desktop and laptop models is the implementation of standard software that will provide essential security and desktop support functionality including:
- Secure /locked desktops
- Increased user and support productivity
- Increased ability to remotely provide a range of desktop support services.

Anatomy of a Standardized Desktop:

Core Image Elements:

• Microsoft Windows 7 or Windows XP

• Microsoft Office 2010

• Internet Explorer 8

• Management Agent (Altiris)

• Firewall Exceptions (Allow Altiris to communicate with servers)

Applications/Configurations to be setup upon deployment to end user:

• Remove local administrator access

• PuTTY

• WinSCP

• Firefox

• Enable Remote Access / Limited Firewall Scope to help restrict unwanted access)

• AP/Car

• vFFE - Financial FrontEnd

• QWS3270

• Managed AntiVirus (Symantec EndPoint Protection)

• Managed backup (Connected Backup)

• SSN# Scanning (Spider)

Applications deployed as needed:

• Drive encryption (Guardian Edge)

• Onbase ActiveX Controls

Managed Policies:

• Green IT power saving settings

• Firewall settings

• Screen saver passwords

• Password history: 7 passwords remembered

• Maximum password age: 90 days

• Minimum password length: 6 characters

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