BMC Automates Patrol CapabilitiesBMC Automates Patrol Capabilities

BMC Software Inc. has been leading the app management and performance market for years. But even a vendor of its size and status can still learn about ease of use.

On Monday, BMC will unveil Patrol for Microsoft Windows Servers 3.0 and Patrol for Unix 9.0. The vendor says both versions include improved workflow and more out-of-the-box functionality for customers that limits how much an administrator has to do manually.

The upgraded Windows version gives the Patrol console the look and feel of Windows for the first time. Customers also will be able to manage a greater variety of apps in the Windows world. And Patrol for Windows 3.0 administrators can supposedly monitor any Windows apps in a few steps.

Unix administrators and their Windows counterparts will be able to focus on revenue-generating activity while Patrol automatically detects and resolves problems with the operating system. The improved workflow will help improve data collection for decision making. The software also comes with preconfigured parameters for streamlined installation along with enhanced process management.

Both versions are priced at $815 per server.

IDC analyst Tim Grieser notices greater automation in the Unix product and direct support for Active Directory in Windows by automatically configuring servers and discovering all the servers that support the directory. The software, Grieser says, "should save customers time in deploying Patrol on servers and customers get streamlined operations."