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3.3 Software Updating and Management
HP provides several tools for managing and updating software on desktops, workstations, and
notebooks:
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HP System Software Manager
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HP Client Manager
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HP Client Management Solutions using Altiris
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HP Local Recovery
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Dantz Backup and Recovery
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HP Proactive Change Notification
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HP Subscriber's Choice
3.3.1 HP System Software Manager
HP System Software Manager (SSM) is a free utility that automates remote deployment of
device drivers and BIOS updates for networked HP business PCs. When SSM runs, it silently
(without user interaction) determines the revision levels of drivers and BIOS installed on each
networked client system and compares this inventory against system software SoftPaqs that have
been tested and stored in a central file store. SSM then automatically updates any down-revision
system software on the networked PCs to the later levels available in the file store. Since SSM
only allows distribution of SoftPaq updates to the correct client system models, administrators
can confidently and efficiently use SSM to keep system software updated.
System Software Manager integrates with enterprise software distribution tools such as
Microsoft Systems Management Server (SMS). Using SSM, you can distribute customer-created
or third-party updates that have been packaged in the SSM-format.
SSM may be downloaded at no charge by visiting
3.3.2 HP Client Manager
HP Client Manager, developed with Altiris, is available free for supported HP business desktop,
notebook, and workstation models. SSM is integrated into HP Client Manager and enables
central tracking, monitoring, and management of the hardware aspects of HP client systems.
Use HP Client Manager to:
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Get valuable hardware information such as CPU, memory, video, and security settings
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Monitor system health to fix problems before they occur
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Install drivers and BIOS updates without visiting each PC
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Remotely configure BIOS and security settings
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Automate processes to quickly resolve hardware problems
HP Client Manager uses the same Altiris infrastructure as the other Altiris client lifecycle
management solutions. This design provides a significant benefit for the IT staff, since only one
infrastructure needs to be setup and maintained. Since information is stored in one database, you
get complete and consistent inventory reports as well as system health and security information.
You use a single, consistent console interface for scheduling and tracking progress of both
hardware and software management tasks for client systems.
For more information on HP Client Manager, visit
Service Reference Guide, dc7600
www.hp.com/go/ssm
www.hp.com/go/easydeploy
390742-001
Desktop Management
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