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Why Patching is So Hard and How to Make it Easier: Q&A

patch

Our webinars are always interesting—however, this particular one about patching was pretty unique.

With our 1E host Michael Mott demonstrating the powers of Tachyon and the importance of patching, it’s one you’ll want to watch again. (And again!) Lucky for you, we’ve got the on-demand version ready for you. Watch it here.

As always, we had some questions from attendees. Our experts have come together to answer them. Check it out below!

 
Question: Can we patch Linux server by this?
Answer: Yes you can! Although the UI is currently geared towards Windows systems, the Tachyon agent can respond and remediate Linux OS’s.
Question: If each physical site has a DP on the local LAN, is there an advantage of peer caching? (Each site lower than 150 devices.)
Answer: WSS provides more than just peer caching on the local LAN. It provides PXE Everywhere, Peer Back-up for OSD, dynamic block sizing, pre-flight checks and also helps manage its own and the CM cache through dynamic cache cleaning.  On highly connected and efficient networks, Nomad can still provide benefits with peering content.
Question: What about machines that are offline during the query?
Answer: Tachyon (Patch Success) can run either on a schedule or for periods of time as executed by the requester.  If a machine is offline when an instruction is sent out, the minute it comes online it checks in to see if any pending works need to be done.
Question: What is the difference between the WakeUp agent that is part of Nomad license vs. full NightWatchman agent?
Answer: The wake up (WOL) agent that’s included in Nomad isn’t a full-function NWME agent.  It does not use power policy management, nor does it manage reboots or provide system usage over time.  Its only function is to wake machines up.
Question: Why should I buy Nomad when I can use native BranchCache or PeerCache?
Answer: 1E has been in the business of making great agents, and nomad is one of those products.  It just works and is easy to set up within the CM infrastructure and is now seamlessly integrated into the 1E Client, which brings all the benefits Tachyon has to offer.  BranchCache and Peer cache still rely on many other factors, from required server implementation, boundary management, the potential for content duplication, where Nomad doesn’t.  Please see the whitepaper here for more details.
Question: How was the un-install patch handled?
Answer: Microsoft is very good at creating uninstall features around its products, including patches.  Tachyon can call and use the same technology, as an instruction, to do the same thing.  Patch Success as a module can help get you past the 95%, while tachyon instructions can do the uninstall of patches.
Question: Is this tool for Microsoft OS only or for Unix also?
Answer: Yes you can! Although the UI is currently geared towards Windows systems, the Tachyon agent can respond and remediate Unix also.
Question: Can we do a Server reboot sequence according to application instruction?
Answer: In the demo, I actually showed how we can list which systems (and servers) are in a pending reboot state.  Tachyon can use that info to force a restart to ensure patch deployment occurs.  You can even restart systems outside ot maintenance windows if so desires, but always proceed with caution and use the two-factor approval if needed.
Question:  So how can I find out more out if these 1E products will work for me in my environment – and perhaps get a trial and some pricing?
Answer: Depending on client size and location, the appropriate sales team can reach out to you.  Our contact page is here.
Re-watch the patching webinar here. Reach out if you have any questions. We look forward to hearing from you!

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The FORRESTER WAVE™: End-User Experience Management, Q3 2022

The FORRESTER WAVE™: End-User Experience Management, Q3 2022