Intel Corp. recently launched a hardware and software-based tool designed to automatically monitor and manage laptop and desktop performance and security without interfering with computing activities of the machine’s user.
The Intel Small Business Advantage (SBA) for PCs is based on the second generation Intel Core processor family. It is available on Intel Core i3, i5, i5 vPro, i7 and i7 vPro processors with Intel 2012 business chipsets. It offers six applications out-of-the-box to automatically monitor the overall health and security of the PC.
To maximize PC performance the SBA has the following features:
PC Health Center – PC Health Center automatically runs regular software updates and maintenance tasks after-hours, even if the computer is turned off. The PC will power itself on to update software, defragment disk drives and delete cookies and temporary Internet files. When the tasks are completed, the PC will power itself back down. By running these tasks after-hours, the maintenance tasks will not interrupt an employee’s workflow, thereby increasing productivity.
Energy Saver – Intel Core processors with Intel SBA can help reduce energy bills. If an employee forgets to turn off a PC, the Energy Saver feature will power it down automatically, reducing after-hours energy consumption up to 95 percent1. Energy Saver can power PCs down and up again when needed, and can also turn PCs on as the workday begins so they are ready for the day when employees arrive.
Intel Wireless Display – Intel Wireless Display enables PC to easily connect flat panels to a PC’s wireless display to improve collaboration by streaming presentations, videos and websites.
To reduce malware disruption and data leakage SBA has the following features:
Software Monitor – Security software is easily disabled and, too often, is out-of-date, making coverage unreliable. Software Monitor watches security software constantly and alerts the small business owner if it has been compromised. Multiple notification methods and event logs notify users when immediate action is needed. This hardware-based technology adds an extra layer of protection to reduce downtime and expenses caused by viruses and malware, and decrease the risk of data corruption and loss.
Data Backup & Restore – Data should be backed up automatically and reliably in order to protect vital information. Scheduling backups for off -hours prevents backups from interrupting an employee’s workday. If a backup is missed or an error occurs, the software automatically notifies the user. In the event data must be recovered from a backup, an easy-to-use guide helps users through a straight-forward process.
USB Blocker – Viruses and malware can be inadvertently introduced into businesses through USB ports. USB ports can also remove critical business data from the PC. The PC can be customized to block selected USB devices including mass storage, cameras, printers and more. A password-protected configuration allows for control of input and output while listing exceptions for backup devices.