The BigFix Enterprise Suite (BES) is a product that can really do it all in the world of policy management. The product supports a vast array of different operating systems, including Linux, Unix, Mac and Windows clients. BigFix Enterprise Suite is built in three components: the server component that communicates with the client, the console that allows for the configuration, and agent software that resides on the client machine. BES shows true scalability by using public key infrastructre (PKI) technology from the moment of install. This allow for the product to use already deployed servers as additional BES servers in a local caching model. The PKI technology also allows for users who never connect to the corporate network to still maintain policy compliance over an internet connection using a secure sockets layer (SSL) process. The console seems complex at first, but after less than an hour the layout seems logical and relatively easy to manage.
BigFix Enterprise Suite installed very easily considering the functionality of the product. A typical Windows 2003 Server without domain components is the ideal installation platform and the installation would not need to be customized to support the BES product. The installation of BES also installs a SQL database server and a web server that is used for generating and viewing reports. The reports available from the web server are actually more detailed than traditional reports and they approach a level of read only access to the configuration interface.
Documentation for this product is provided, but the installation and configuration screens have the most detailed explanations we have ever seen in a product.
BigFix provides phone, email and web support. The level of support available on the web is impressive and includes a knowledge base, downloads and many configuration guides.
The pricing for the BigFix product was toward the low end. When the price is considered alongside the large number of included features, the price is really surprising. For its high value and superior feature set we rate this product Recommended.
Enterprise Suite Version 6.0 has been rated Recommended by SC Magazine.
