Altiris Inventory List All Computers Starting With Pln- To Pks-

Altiris Inventory List All Computers Starting With Pln- To Pks- – A Complete Overview!

Efficient IT infrastructure management depends on detailed and accurate asset tracking. Symantec’s Altiris, a trusted endpoint management solution, offers powerful tools for managing, monitoring, and maintaining IT assets across an organization. One of its standout capabilities is generating filtered inventory lists based on custom naming conventions.

This guide delves into how IT administrators can use Altiris to list all computers with names starting from PLN- to PKS-, highlighting the practical applications, step-by-step instructions, and tips for maximizing Altiris’ inventory features.

What is Altiris?

Altiris, developed by Symantec, is a comprehensive suite of tools for endpoint management, software deployment, and IT asset tracking. It enables organizations to manage devices, applications, and configurations across their network. Key features include:

  • Inventory Management: Track hardware and software configurations of all endpoints.
  • Software Deployment: Install or update applications efficiently.
  • Patch Management: Ensure systems are secure by deploying critical updates.
  • Reporting and Analytics: Generate detailed reports on device health, compliance, and usage.

With its robust inventory management solution, Altiris simplifies the task of filtering and categorizing devices, making it easier for administrators to maintain oversight.

Why Filter Computers Starting with PLN- to PKS-?

Filtering devices based on naming conventions such as “PLN-” to “PKS-” provides several benefits:

1. Organized Asset Management

By grouping computers with specific prefixes, IT teams can streamline management tasks, such as auditing, troubleshooting, and resource allocation.

2. Targeted Software Deployment

Deploy software or patches to specific sets of computers without impacting unrelated devices.

3. Simplified Compliance Checks

Easily identify devices within a particular group to ensure they meet security and compliance standards.

4. Improved Troubleshooting

Focus on a subset of devices for performance monitoring, diagnostics, or issue resolution.

Step-by-Step Guide: Generating a Filtered List

Step 1: Log in to Altiris Management Console

  • Access the Altiris console through your web browser.
  • Navigate to the Inventory Solution section to manage device data.

Step 2: Create a Custom Filter

  • Go to Filters under the Manage tab.
  • Select Create New Filter and name it appropriately (e.g., “PLN to PKS Inventory”).
  • Input criteria for filtering devices:
    • Use the SQL query editor or Altiris’ filter builder to set naming parameters.

Example SQL Query:

sql

Copy code

SELECT *  

FROM Inv_AeX_AC_Identification  

WHERE Name LIKE ‘PLN-%’  

OR Name LIKE ‘PKS-%’  

This query filters devices whose names begin with “PLN-” or “PKS-“.

Step 3: Save and Apply the Filter

  • Save the filter for future use.
  • Navigate to Reports and select data fields like device name, operating system, IP address, and last contact time.
  • Apply the saved filter to refine the report to devices matching the criteria.

Step 4: Export the Inventory List

  • Once the filtered report is generated, export it as a CSV or Excel file.
  • Use this file for auditing, compliance checks, or further analysis.

Step 5: Automate Filter Refresh

  • Set up automated refresh cycles to keep the inventory list updated in real-time.

Practical Applications of a Filtered Inventory List

  1. Auditing and Compliance: Ensure that all devices within the filtered group adhere to company standards for security and software updates. Simplify reporting for regulatory compliance or internal audits.
  2. Software Deployment: Deploy specific applications, patches, or updates to the filtered group without affecting unrelated systems.
  3. Performance Monitoring: Monitor system performance metrics for devices within the PLN- to PKS- range, identifying potential issues before they escalate.
  4. Resource Allocation: Allocate resources, such as memory or storage upgrades, based on the specific needs of filtered devices.

Tips for Effective Use of Altiris Filters

  1. Consistent Naming Conventions
    Adopt a standardized naming system for devices to simplify filtering and reporting. For example, use prefixes that indicate location, department, or device type.
  2. Schedule Regular Updates
    Automate inventory updates to ensure your data remains current, especially for dynamic environments with frequent changes.
  3. Leverage Reports
    Utilize Altiris’ reporting tools to generate insights into system health, software usage, and compliance for the filtered group.
  4. Backup Filters and Queries
    Save your custom filters and queries to prevent data loss and ensure continuity in case of system issues.

Advanced Techniques: Enhancing the Inventory Process

Using Altiris Automation

Automate tasks like patch deployment or system configuration changes for filtered devices. For instance:

  • Configure Altiris policies to automatically apply updates to devices in the PLN- to PKS- group.
  • Schedule automated scans to identify devices that deviate from expected configurations.

Integrating with Other Tools

Combine Altiris with other IT management tools to create a more comprehensive management ecosystem. For example:

  • Use ServiceNow or Jira to track and resolve issues flagged during inventory audits.
  • Integrate with Splunk for advanced analytics and security monitoring.

Benefits of Altiris Inventory Filters

  1. Scalable Management
    Easily manage thousands of devices across multiple locations or departments.
  2. Improved Efficiency
    Save time by automating repetitive tasks, such as filtering or reporting.
  3. Data Accuracy
    Ensure reliable inventory data by scheduling automated scans and updates.
  4. Enhanced Security
    Quickly identify devices that are missing critical updates or configurations.

FAQ’s

1. What is Altiris, and how does it help in IT management?


Altiris is a suite of endpoint management tools by Symantec, used for asset tracking, software deployment, patch management, and reporting. It helps IT teams manage devices, monitor configurations, and streamline operations efficiently.

2. Why filter computers by names starting with PLN- to PKS-?


Filtering allows IT teams to organize assets, target specific groups for software deployment, simplify compliance checks, and streamline troubleshooting for improved efficiency.

3. How can I create a filtered list in Altiris for PLN- to PKS- devices?


Use the Altiris Management Console to create a custom filter by inputting criteria such as device names starting with “PLN-” or “PKS-“. Save and apply the filter, then export the inventory as a report.

4. What are the benefits of using Altiris filters for inventory management?


Filters enable scalable management, save time through automation, ensure accurate data, and enhance security by identifying devices needing updates or compliance checks.

5. Can Altiris integrate with other IT tools for better efficiency?


Yes, Altiris integrates with tools like ServiceNow for issue tracking and Splunk for advanced analytics, providing a comprehensive IT management ecosystem.

Conclusion

Altiris simplifies IT management by providing powerful tools for filtering, tracking, and managing devices. By creating an inventory list of computers starting with PLN- to PKS-, administrators can streamline operations, improve compliance, and enhance resource allocation.

With its customizable filters and robust reporting features, Altiris enables IT teams to take full control of their infrastructure, ensuring that systems are secure, efficient, and up-to-date. Embrace the power of Altiris to make inventory management a seamless and effective part of your IT strategy.

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