Session Management IS BACK

Joseph Klimczak July 2, 2024 No Comments

Optimizing Admin Experience: Changing the Timeout Time on Workspace ONE

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, ensuring a seamless and efficient user experience is paramount. Workspace ONE, a comprehensive digital workspace platform, allows organizations to manage and secure any app on any device. One critical aspect of user experience in Workspace ONE is the session timeout setting. By customizing the timeout duration, administrators can strike a balance between security and convenience. Here’s how you can change the timeout time on Workspace ONE to optimize your organization’s workflow.

Why Adjust the Timeout Time?

Enhanced Security: Shorter timeout periods can help protect sensitive information by ensuring that unattended sessions are automatically logged out, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
User Convenience: On the flip side, longer timeout periods can enhance user productivity by minimizing disruptions and the need to frequently log back in.
Compliance: Adjusting the timeout duration can also help meet specific compliance requirements that mandate certain session management practices.

Steps to Change the Timeout Time in Workspace ONE

Changing the session timeout setting in Workspace ONE is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to configure the timeout duration according to your organization’s needs:

Access the Workspace ONE UEM Console:
Log in to your Workspace ONE UEM console with administrative credentials.
Navigate to the Appropriate Settings:
Go to Groups & Settings > All Settings > Admin > Console Security > Session Management
Modify Session Timeout:
Locate the Idle Session Timeout. This setting controls the duration of inactivity before a session is automatically logged out.
Set the Desired Timeout Duration:
Enter the desired timeout duration in minutes. For example, setting it to 15 minutes will log users out after 15 minutes of inactivity.
Save the Changes:
Click Save to apply the changes. The new timeout setting will be enforced across all devices managed by Workspace ONE.

Best Practices for Setting Timeout Duration

Assess User Needs:
Consider the typical workflow and needs of your users. For instance, customer-facing roles might benefit from longer timeout periods, while roles dealing with highly sensitive data might require shorter durations.
Balance Security and Convenience:
Aim for a timeout period that provides a reasonable balance between security and user convenience. Common timeout durations range from 5 to 30 minutes.
Regular Review:
Periodically review and adjust the timeout settings as needed to ensure they remain aligned with evolving security policies and user requirements.

Conclusion

Customizing the timeout time in Workspace ONE is a simple yet effective way to enhance both security and admin experience.

Blog End User Tools WorkSpace One

What’s New in Device Management: Highlights from WWDC 2024

Joseph Klimczak June 14, 2024 No Comments

Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024 unveiled several key updates in device management aimed at enhancing security, efficiency, and flexibility for administrators managing Apple devices. Here’s an in-depth look at the significant changes:

Enhanced Activation Lock Management

Activation Lock, a critical feature for device security, has seen improvements in management. Apple has streamlined processes to ensure that devices remain secure, even when lost or stolen while providing administrators with effective tools to manage these locks. This ensures robust security without compromising user experience.

Advanced Software Update Controls

Managing software updates has become more flexible and controlled. Administrators now have the ability to delay updates, enforce mandatory updates by specific dates, and more. These granular controls help maintain device security and functionality with minimal disruption to users.

Safari Management Capabilities

Apple has introduced enhanced controls for managing Safari. Administrators can now enforce security settings, manage extensions, and configure browsing policies more comprehensively. This is particularly beneficial for schools and businesses needing to maintain a secure and controlled browsing environment.

Apple Business Manager and School Manager Enhancements

Significant enhancements have been made to Apple Business Manager and School Manager. These updates facilitate easier device deployment and management, with improved setup workflows, more powerful management tools, and streamlined app and content distribution processes. These changes aim to reduce the burden on IT departments and enhance efficiency.

Support for visionOS

With the introduction of VisionOS, Apple has extended its management capabilities to this new platform. This integration allows administrators to manage visionOS devices alongside iOS, iPadOS, and macOS devices, ensuring a unified and simplified management experience across all Apple devices.

Managed Apple ID Migrations

A new feature allows for the seamless migration of managed Apple IDs. This is crucial for organizations transitioning between management systems or updating their infrastructure. It simplifies the process, ensuring that user data and settings are preserved during migrations.

Apple Lock Turn Off

Apple has introduced a new feature that allows administrators to turn off Apple Lock remotely. This feature is particularly useful in situations where devices need to be reassigned or repurposed quickly, ensuring that they can be unlocked and set up without delays.

Privacy and Security Enhancements

Continuing its commitment to privacy and security, Apple has introduced enhanced privacy controls within its device management framework. These controls ensure user data protection while providing administrators with the tools necessary to manage devices effectively, helping organizations comply with privacy regulations.

Conclusion

The updates announced at WWDC 2024 underscore Apple’s dedication to providing robust, secure, and user-friendly device management solutions. These enhancements offer greater control, flexibility, and security for administrators across various environments, from educational institutions to large enterprises. As Apple continues to innovate, these tools will undoubtedly become even more essential for effective device management.

For a comprehensive understanding, you can watch the full session on device management from WWDC 2024 here.

Blog VMware WorkSpace One

Remembering to Be Nice to the Support People During the VMware to Omnissa Transition

Joseph Klimczak June 1, 2024 No Comments

Transitioning from one technology platform to another is always challenging, especially for support teams, who bear the brunt of user frustrations, technical issues, and steep learning curves involved. As your organization shifts from VMware Suppor to Omnissa, it’s crucial to remember the human element behind the technology. Your support people are the unsung heroes in this process, and treating them with kindness and respect can make a world of difference.

Here’s why—and how—you should be nice to your support team during this critical transition.

The Human Element in Technological Transitions

Support teams are at the frontline of any technology transition. They manage the technical complexities, address user concerns, and ensure that operations continue smoothly. During a shift from VMware to Omnissa, they will likely face:

Increased Workload: Transition periods often mean extra hours and heightened stress as support teams handle simultaneous systems.
Learning Curve: Even experienced support personnel need time to adapt to new technologies, understand new protocols, and develop new troubleshooting techniques.
User Frustration: Users accustomed to VMware will inevitably encounter difficulties with Omnissa, and support teams will be the first point of contact for their frustrations.

Why Kindness Matters

Morale and Motivation: Support staff who feel appreciated and respected are more likely to stay motivated and perform better under pressure. A kind word can boost their morale and help them tackle challenges more effectively.
Productivity: A positive work environment enhances productivity. When support teams are treated with courtesy, they are more likely to go the extra mile to resolve issues swiftly and efficiently.
Team Cohesion: Encouraging a culture of kindness fosters team cohesion. When everyone supports each other, the transition process becomes smoother and less stressful for all involved.

How to Be Kind to Your Support Tech

Show Appreciation: Simple gestures like saying “thank you” or acknowledging their hard work can go a long way. Consider small tokens of appreciation like team lunches, shout-outs in meetings, or thank-you notes.
Be Patient: Understand that transitioning from VMware to Omnissa is complex. Avoid placing unrealistic demands and give your support team the time they need to solve issues.
Offer Constructive Feedback: If you encounter problems, provide feedback that is constructive rather than critical. Focus on solutions and improvements rather than just pointing out faults.
Communicate Clearly: Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings. When logging support tickets or describing issues, be as detailed and clear as possible to help the support team address problems more efficiently.
Be Empathetic: Try to put yourself in their shoes. Recognize the pressures they are under and offer empathy and understanding rather than adding to their stress.

Conclusion

Transitioning from VMware to Omnissa is a significant change that involves everyone. By remembering to be nice and showing appreciation for their hard work, you not only foster a positive working environment but also contribute to a smoother and more successful transition. After all, technology might drive the process, but it’s the people behind the technology who make it all possible. Let’s remember to be kind to them.

Blog

Exciting News Alert!

Joseph Klimczak February 23, 2024 No Comments

This morning, I woke up to an incredible surprise that truly made my day. But before I share that, let me take you back to where it all began.

Back in 1998, while still in high school, I dipped my toes into the world of IT by taking on desktop support roles after school and in between my passions for golf and track. After graduating, I gave college a shot but quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit for me. Despite not being the top student, I found my calling as a Helpdesk technician in November 2001.

It was during my time on the Helpdesk that I was fortunate enough to be surrounded by the right mentors and an amazing team that fostered my growth. I spent countless hours tinkering with old desktops, transforming them into makeshift servers for my personal lab experiments. My parents’ electric bill certainly took a hit during those days! Then, everything changed when I stumbled upon VMware Workstation. It was a game-changer that set me on the path to building a career as a consultant, specializing in installing one of the most transformative products in the industry: ESX/ESXi vSphere.

I vividly remember spending countless nights configuring home labs, endlessly reinstalling until I got everything just right. Eventually, my dedication paid off, and I found myself traveling the world, installing vSphere solutions for clients across the globe. However, as life evolved and I started a family, I decided to pivot back to my roots in end-user support, focusing on Workspace ONE.

And now, to the exciting news! Today, I am incredibly honored to announce that I have been awarded the title of vExpert, one of the most prestigious honors in our industry. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the support and guidance of everyone who has helped me grow as an engineer, a technician, a manager, and a mentor.

Thank you to each and every one of you who has played a part in my journey. I am immensely grateful for your support and encouragement. Here’s to many more exciting adventures ahead!

#vExpert #ITJourney #Gratitude #CareerGrowth #TechCommunity

Blog

Easy Way to call CMD in Automox

Joseph Klimczak February 21, 2024 No Comments

Example for calling cmd to install CS in Automox

$proc = Start-Process Installer.exe -ArgumentList '/install /quiet /norestart CID=KEY000000111' -PassThru
Write-Output "Exit Code was $($proc.ExitCode)"
Exit $proc.ExitCode

Blog VMware WorkSpace One

Unlocking Seamless Management with DEEM and Workspace ONE

Joseph Klimczak December 19, 2023 No Comments

In today’s dynamic work landscape, the integration of cutting-edge technologies isn’t just advantageous; it’s a necessity. As businesses strive for enhanced efficiency, productivity, and security, the collaboration between DEEM and Workspace ONE emerges as a transformative force, reshaping the realm of digital management.

What is DEEM?

Digital Employee Experience Management (DEEM) is a strategic approach that centers on optimizing digital experiences within an organization. It delves into understanding how employees interact with digital tools, aiming to enhance these interactions for improved productivity, engagement, and overall satisfaction.

The Power of Workspace ONE

On the other hand, Workspace ONE, a robust digital workspace platform, stands as a cornerstone in modern IT solutions. It orchestrates seamless management of devices, applications, and data, fostering a cohesive and secure digital environment.

Integration of DEEM with Workspace ONE

The amalgamation of DEEM principles with Workspace ONE signifies a paradigm shift in digital management. This integration facilitates a holistic view of the employee experience, aligning digital capabilities with user needs and expectations.

Key Benefits of DEEM and Workspace ONE Integration:

Enhanced Employee Productivity: The synergy between DEEM and Workspace ONE ensures that the digital environment is optimized for efficiency. By understanding user behavior and preferences, IT teams can tailor digital experiences, leading to increased productivity.
Proactive Issue Resolution: DEEM’s monitoring capabilities, when integrated with Workspace ONE’s management suite, enable proactive identification and resolution of digital hurdles. Predictive analytics and insights empower IT teams to address potential issues before they impact productivity.
Optimized Digital Workspaces: Workspace ONE’s ability to manage diverse digital assets complements DEEM’s focus on user experience. Through seamless device management, application delivery, and data security, organizations can curate personalized and productive digital workspaces.
Agile IT Operations: The combined prowess of DEEM and Workspace ONE streamlines IT operations. Automation, simplified workflows, and centralized management empower IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives while ensuring a seamless digital experience for users.
Data-Driven Decision-Making: DEEM’s data analytics, when integrated into Workspace ONE’s framework, provides valuable insights. These insights enable data-driven decision-making, ensuring continuous improvement in digital experiences and resource allocation.

Embracing the Future of Digital Management

As businesses navigate the complexities of modern digital landscapes, the fusion of DEEM and Workspace ONE emerges as a beacon of innovation. This integration transcends conventional management approaches, propelling organizations toward a future where digital experiences are not just optimized but also deeply aligned with user needs.

Final Thoughts

The synergy between DEEM and Workspace ONE is more than a mere collaboration; it’s a transformative force. It empowers organizations to harness the true potential of digital technologies while placing user experience at the forefront. As businesses strive for digital excellence, this integration stands as a testament to the evolution of digital management strategies.

How 2 Docs VMware WorkSpace One

Creating a Workspace ONE Sensor to Check Mac Warranty

Joseph Klimczak October 6, 2023 No Comments

Creating a Workspace ONE Sensor to Check Mac Warranty

Managing your organization’s IT assets efficiently includes keeping track of warranty information for devices such as Mac computers. Workspace ONE, a comprehensive, unified endpoint management (UEM) solution by VMware, allows you to create custom sensors to monitor various aspects of your endpoints, including warranty status. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through creating a Workspace ONE sensor to check the warranty status of Mac devices.

Prerequisites

Before we begin, ensure that you have the following prerequisites in place:

Workspace ONE UEM Console: Access to the Workspace ONE UEM console with the necessary permissions to create sensors.
Mac Serial Number: The serial number of the Mac computer for which you want to check the warranty status.

Step 1: Log In to Workspace ONE UEM Console

Log in to your Workspace ONE UEM console using your administrator credentials.

Step 2: Create a New Sensor

2.1. Navigate to “Devices & Users” > “Sensors” in the Workspace ONE UEM console.

2.2. Click on the “+Add” button to create a new sensor.

Add Sensor

Step 3: Configure the Sensor

3.1. Give your sensor a descriptive name, such as “Mac Warranty Check.”

3.2. In the “Sensor Type” field, select “Script.”

3.3. In the “Script” field, enter the following script (Python script to check Mac warranty):

#!/bin/bash

currentUser=$(stat -f%Su /dev/console)
ACEplist="/Users/$currentUser/Library/Application Support/com.apple.NewDeviceOutreach/Warranty.plist"
if [ -f "$ACEplist" ];  then
  endDate=$(/usr/libexec/PlistBuddy -c "Print :coverageEndDate" "$ACEplist")
  date=$(date -j -f %s $endDate +%F)
  echo "$date"
else
  echo "Not Found"
fi

Step 4: Assign the Sensor to Mac Devices

4.1. After saving the sensor, go to “Devices & Users” > “Device List View” in the Workspace ONE UEM console.

4.2. Select the Mac devices you want to assign the sensor to.

4.3. Click on “Actions” and choose “More Actions” > “Sensors.”

4.4. select the “Mac Warranty Check” sensor from the list of available sensors.

4.5. Click “Save” to assign the sensor to the selected Mac devices.

Step 5: View Warranty Status

Now that you’ve assigned the sensor to Mac devices, it will run according to the configured frequency. To view the warranty status:

5.1. Navigate to “Devices & Users” > “Device List View.”

5.2. Select a Mac device from the list.

5.3. go to the “Sensors” tab in the device details.

5.4. You will see the “Mac Warranty Check” sensor listed with its status.

The sensor will regularly check the warranty status of the assigned Mac devices and provide updates in the Workspace ONE UEM console.

By following these steps, you can efficiently monitor the warranty status of Mac devices within your organization using Workspace ONE. This proactive approach to device management helps ensure that devices are under warranty, reducing the risk of unexpected repair costs and downtime.

How 2 Docs

How to Disable Copilot in Windows 11 for Enhanced System Performance

Joseph Klimczak September 29, 2023 No Comments

Windows 11 introduces several new features aimed at enhancing user experience and productivity. One such feature is Copilot, which offers assistance and suggestions while using the operating system. While Copilot can be helpful, some users may prefer to disable it to free up system resources or for other reasons. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to disable Copilot in Windows 11, either using the Group Policy Editor or the Registry Editor.

Note: The Group Policy Editor method is available in Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions. If you are running one of these editions, you can follow the steps below. If you have a different edition of Windows 11, you can use the Registry Editor method.

Method 1: Using the Group Policy Editor

Press Win + S to open the Windows Search bar.
Type gpedit.msc and press Enter. This will open the Group Policy Editor.
In the Group Policy Editor, navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Copilot.
Locate the policy named Turn off Windows Copilot. Double-click on it to open its settings.
Select the Enabled option to disable Copilot.
Click Apply and then click OK to save the changes.
Restart your PC to apply the new settings.

Method 2: Using the Registry Editor

Press Win + S to open the Windows Search bar.
Type regedit and press Enter. This will open the Registry Editor.
In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following path:

   HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsCopilot

If you don’t see the WindowsCopilot key, you’ll need to create it. To do this: a. Right-click on the Windows key (folder) in the left pane. b. Select New > Key and name it WindowsCopilot.
With the WindowsCopilot key selected, right-click in the right pane.
Choose New > DWORD (32-bit) Value and name it TurnOffWindowsCopilot.
Double-click the TurnOffWindowsCopilot entry and set its value to 1.
Click OK to save the value.
Close the Registry Editor.
Restart your PC to apply the changes.

Conclusion:

Whether you want to reclaim system resources or simply prefer not to use Copilot, disabling this feature in Windows 11 is a straightforward process. Follow the method that corresponds to your Windows 11 edition, and you’ll be able to turn off Copilot and enjoy a more customized computing experience.

Sec Ops

Automox’s Otto AI: Revolutionizing Endpoint Management

Joseph Klimczak September 29, 2023 No Comments

In the ever-evolving landscape of endpoint management, where cybersecurity threats continue to grow in sophistication, organizations need innovative solutions to stay ahead of the curve. Automox, a leader in the field, has introduced Otto AI, a game-changing addition to its platform. This cutting-edge technology is poised to revolutionize endpoint management by automating and optimizing crucial processes. In this blog post, we’ll explore how Otto AI from Automox is changing the game and why it’s a game-changer for IT professionals.

The Challenge:

Endpoint management involves a multitude of tasks, from deploying patches and updates to maintaining security configurations. As organizations grow, so does the complexity of these tasks. IT professionals often find themselves overwhelmed with manual and time-consuming processes, leading to inefficiencies, security vulnerabilities, and increased operational costs.

The Solution: Otto AI

Otto AI is an advanced artificial intelligence engine integrated into the Automox platform. It’s designed to tackle the challenges of modern endpoint management with unprecedented efficiency. Here’s how Otto AI is reshaping the landscape:

Automated Patching: Otto AI identifies vulnerable systems and automates the patching process. It prioritizes critical updates, ensuring that the most significant security threats are addressed promptly. This reduces the risk of cyberattacks and data breaches.
Customized Policies: One size does not fit all when it comes to endpoint management. Otto AI enables organizations to create customized policies that align with their specific needs. This level of personalization ensures that every system is compliant with the company’s standards.
Intelligent Insights: Otto AI goes beyond automation; it provides intelligent insights into an organization’s endpoint landscape. IT teams gain valuable data on patch compliance, system vulnerabilities, and overall security posture, empowering them to make informed decisions.
Scalable Efficiency: As organizations grow, so does their endpoint infrastructure. Otto AI scales effortlessly, adapting to changing environments without a hitch. This scalability ensures that endpoint management remains efficient regardless of an organization’s size.
Risk Reduction: By automating routine tasks and offering real-time insights, Otto AI significantly reduces human error. This, in turn, reduces the organization’s risk exposure and strengthens its overall security posture.
Time and Cost Savings: With Otto AI handling repetitive tasks, IT professionals can redirect their efforts toward more strategic initiatives. This leads to substantial time and cost savings for organizations.

Dev-Ops-Tools End User Tools Sec Ops

Automox: Simplifying and Enhancing Endpoint Security

Joseph Klimczak September 18, 2023 No Comments

Introduction

In a world where cyber threats are ever-evolving and digital assets are more critical than ever, ensuring the security and compliance of your organization’s endpoints is paramount. Managing endpoints efficiently and effectively can be a daunting task, especially in large and complex IT environments. This is where Automox comes into play. In this blog post, we’ll explore Automox, a cloud-native platform designed to simplify and enhance endpoint security.

The Challenge of Endpoint Security

Endpoint security encompasses a wide range of devices, including desktops, laptops, servers, and mobile devices. Managing the security of these endpoints involves various tasks such as patching, configuration management, and vulnerability assessment. Traditional methods often require multiple tools, making the process complex, time-consuming, and prone to errors.

Enter Automox

Automox is a cloud-native, cross-platform endpoint management and security platform. Its mission is simple yet powerful: to automate and simplify the essential tasks of endpoint management, making it easier for organizations to protect their assets from cyber threats and maintain compliance.

Key Features of Automox

Cloud-Native Architecture: Automox’s cloud-native architecture means there’s no need for on-premises servers or complex infrastructure. This makes deployment and scalability a breeze, particularly for organizations with remote or distributed teams.
Patch Management: Automox automates the patching process for various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. It ensures that all endpoints are up to date with the latest security patches, reducing vulnerability to known threats.
Policy-Based Configuration: With Automox, you can create and enforce policies that define desired configurations for your endpoints. This helps in maintaining consistent security and compliance standards across the organization.
Vulnerability Assessment: Automox continuously scans and assesses endpoints for vulnerabilities, providing real-time insights into potential risks. This proactive approach allows organizations to remediate vulnerabilities swiftly.
Multi-Platform Support: Automox doesn’t discriminate based on the operating system. It supports a wide range of platforms, making it suitable for heterogeneous IT environments.
Automated Workflows: Automox enables the automation of repetitive tasks, freeing up IT teams to focus on more strategic initiatives. This includes scheduling patch deployments and updates.
Compliance Reporting: For organizations subject to regulatory requirements, Automox provides detailed compliance reporting, making audits less daunting and ensuring adherence to industry standards.

The Benefits of Automox

Enhanced Security: By automating patch management and vulnerability assessments, Automox reduces the window of vulnerability, making it harder for cybercriminals to exploit security gaps.
Simplified Management: Automox consolidates endpoint management tasks into a single platform, reducing the complexity of managing various tools and interfaces.
Time and Cost Savings: Automation significantly reduces the time and effort required for routine tasks, resulting in cost savings and improved operational efficiency.
Scalability: Whether your organization is small or large, Automox can scale to meet your needs without the hassle of infrastructure expansion.
Proactive Protection: By staying ahead of threats with real-time vulnerability assessments, Automox helps organizations take a proactive stance on cybersecurity.

Conclusion

Endpoint security is not a one-time task; it’s an ongoing process that demands efficiency, accuracy, and adaptability. Automox empowers organizations to tackle this challenge head-on by automating essential endpoint management tasks and providing real-time insights into their security posture. With the threat landscape constantly evolving, having a tool like Automox in your cybersecurity arsenal is not just a choice; it’s a necessity to protect your digital assets and maintain compliance in today’s digital age.