HCL BigFix vs. KACE Systems Deployment Appliance (SDA)

BigFix is well suited for patch review and deployment, but there are key features that can definitely be improved. An example is that if a specific patch is deployed, but a cumulative update that contains that patch is not deployed, the system still shows the patch as outstanding or not implemented. Another area for improvement is the customization of BigFix. The tool has many uses and can be extremely helpful, but the amount of knowledge required to customize the solution is significant and customized scripts or "fixlets" need to be created. If common things could be pre-packaged and provided to the customer community, it would allow for an easier deployment and use of the tool.

Incentivized

It is most effective in Windows PC environments and doing mass Windows deployments across a wired LAN. It would not be suitable for small office/school environments or for environments with limited PC usage.

Incentivized

• Custom patch packages are easy to set up and allows for use with a repository.
• Asset management by use of agents is simple and allows for user assignment by the device.
• Reporting has a large variety of templates.

Incentivized

• Windows PC deployments.
• Windows PC re-imaging.

Incentivized

• No console for macOS
• No easy setup UI for macOS users
• Patching can be complicated if you don't understand relevance
• Patching can be complicated it you don't understand scripting
• Could be better in helping with CIS Benchmarks

Incentivized

• USMT had issues with successfully capturing user states.
• MAC support, stopped supporting newer versions of MAC OS. No APFS support.

Incentivized

While some support calls are quickly responded to, many times our engineers have been pointed to collaborative web sites such as Bigfix.me for solutions or the option of engaging professional services has been proposed. While this may seem like a good way to drive business, it is not seen as efficient a support process as could be provided to the customer base.

Incentivized

The majority of the support reps I talk to on the phone are quick to respond and very helpful. They will take their time helping you with any case for the SDA and have any issues with it. They will help you build new boot environments or deployments if you get stuck or have a problem.

Incentivized

We have significantly enhanced our ability to patch desktops, including laptops, desktop, cloud, virtual machines and other mobile devices used by end-users. BigFix's endpoint management functionality allows us to seamlessly patch a wide range of operating systems, such as Windows, MacOS, ChromeOS, and Linux systems, ensuring comprehensive patch management across IT infrastructures. We have established a track record of delivering secure and hassle-free patching solutions to our clients

• Overall, the product helps achieve the security posture mandated by HIPAA for our organization.
• It is a decent inventory management solution, and provides IT leaders with useful information for decision making.

Incentivized

• Primarily saves us time for maintaining our computer labs.

Incentivized