How best to manage mixed OS environments.
OS stands for operating system, which is the interface developed by the manufacturer.
For example, most people know Microsoft developed Windows, Apple developed Mac OS and then there’s also the free OS, Linux.
It’s important to have an antivirus on all systems, no matter which OS it is.
Viruses can affect any computer, no matter what operating system it is running.
For example, Apple and Linux both disclosed critical vulnerabilities in some versions of their operating systems.
Because of this, it is essential to remember to patch all computers frequently, and to repair those that fail to meet an acceptable standard.
Having a thin-client server model is one way of approaching mixed OS environments.
This means that everyone connects and works from the same server.
Having this allows for easier management since permissions can be easily enforced.
You can run almost any operating system on a Mac.
There are many approaches you can take to manage different operating systems.
For example you can manage both Mac’s and PC’s with a MDM (mobile device management) software such as Microsoft Endpoint Manager.
Additionally, there is software such as Parallels Desktop 17 that will allow you to run Windows OS and apps from your Mac.
Similar to this, you can use VMWare to run Windows virtually, and it is free for non-commercial use.
Not only this, custom networks can be configured with bridged applications over standard protocols.
When working with multiple servers, especially ones that are in production, you need to ensure that they are patched.
However, you also need to be careful that the patches don’t break your application or website.
The correct way to deploy patches is to test them for compatibility and have roll-back procedures in case of any issues.
At Total Support Solutions, we have software that can monitor both Mac’s and Windows.
We can help to ensure device compliance, create policies for your network, ensure you get assistance quickly and more.
