In some sectors, the toughest part of an IT manager’s job is looking after computers that see several different people sitting in front of them during a typical day. Especially in education, libraries, healthcare, retail and hospitality, managing multi-user computers efficiently is critical. Unfortunately, the more people that use any given device, the more chance that something will go wrong with it.
Challenges of managing multi-user computers
Multi-user computers are common in schools, universities, hotels, libraries, and reception desks. These systems must:
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support multiple simultaneous users without compromising performance
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prevent unauthorised changes to configurations and software
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ensure consistent functionality for all users, even after heavy usage or system crashes
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streamline updates and maintenance without disrupting user activities.
Managing these requirements manually is labour-intensive and prone to inefficiency. This is where Faronics comes in, delivering tools that automate, secure, and simplify multi-user computer management.
Faronics solutions for multi-user computer management
Deep Freeze: ensuring system stability
Deep Freeze by Faronics is a game-changer for multi-user environments. With its patented reboot-to-restore technology, IT teams can ensure that each session begins with a pristine system configuration.
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Eliminate configuration drift: no matter what changes users make during their session, a simple reboot restores the system to its original state.
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Reduce support tickets: frequent issues like accidental file deletions, malware infections, or unauthorised installations become things of the past.
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Enhance uptime: systems remain reliable, even in high-traffic environments like libraries or computer labs.
Anti-Executable: preventing unauthorised applications
Multi-user systems are often at risk of unauthorised or harmful software being installed. Faronics Anti-Executable proactively blocks unapproved applications and ensures that only trusted software can run.
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Enhanced security: protect systems from malware, ransomware, and unlicensed programs.
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Customisable controls: IT teams can create tailored whitelists to fit specific use cases.
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Streamlined audits: simplify software compliance checks and prevent costly penalties.
Kiosk mode: consistent user experience
Kiosk mode effectively allows an IT manager to lock down a desktop, saying to the user: here are the applications and weblinks you’re allowed, and no more. So it’s another extremely helpful tool for limiting the attack surface.
Kiosk mode can be adapted for lots of different use cases within an organisation: for example, a school might deliver one consistent desktop to all its junior students, another consistent desktop to all its senior students, and another to its staff.
Faronics Cloud: centralised management
Managing multi-user computers across many sites becomes effortless with Faronics Cloud, as it allows IT administrators to remotely monitor, update, and control systems from one centralised dashboard.
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Real-time monitoring: gain insights into system performance and usage patterns.
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Automated updates: schedule operating system patches, application updates, and security fixes with zero downtime.
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Policy enforcement: apply consistent security policies across all multi-user machines with just a few clicks.
Managing multi-user computers doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With Faronics, 33,000+ IT teams in 150+ countries have access to reliable, scalable, and easy-to-use tools that simplify every aspect of system management. From ensuring stability with Deep Freeze to securing systems with Anti-Executable and managing everything centrally with Faronics Cloud, you can rest assured that your multi-user environments will perform optimally.
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