Shavlik Updates Windows Patch Management with NetChk Protect 6.0

Published: February 13, 2008

by Alex Woodie

Windows administrators will be put to the test this week with the huge number of security patches released by Microsoft. For Shavlik Technologies, the timing couldn't have been better for the launch of NetChk Protect 6.0, which brings new features for easing the patch management challenge.

Shavlik Technologies has been a respected leader in the Windows patch management software market since it was founded by former Windows NT developer, Mark Shavlik, in 1993. With more than 10,000 customers and OEM partners that include Quest Software and Microsoft itself, the St. Paul, Minnesota, company's flagship HFNetChk product is widely considered to be best of breed for patch remediation.

In 2006, Shavlik divided its core HFNetChk technology into two product groups, including: NetChk Protect, which provides the security patch management features of HFNetChk in addition to the capability to eliminate spyware, malware, and other unwanted applications from a single console; and NetChk Compliance, which helps users mange their patches in the context of regulatory controls. Several other products, including NetChk Protect Audit Edition, NetChk Analyzer, and Shavlik Security Intelligence, round out the company's offerings.

Today, the HFNetChk line continues with NetChk Protect. With NetChk Protect version 6, the company has introduced a new technology called "Any Patch, Anywhere." This new patch editor introduces a wizard-like interface that administrators can use to create and maintain their own custom patches. It also introduces a new network-oriented way of viewing the security status of managed computers. Lastly, version 6 brings more flexibility and control for managing system policies for things like system scans and reboots, the company says.

The changes introduced with NetChk Protect 6.0 are based on customer feedback, says Mark Shavlik, CEO of Shavlik Technologies. "NetChk Protect 6.0 will dramatically change the way that customers interact with the software, giving them the flexibility to quickly and easily manage their policy and configuration process,” Shavlik says.

Pricing for NetChk Protect 6.0 starts at $89 for managing two computers, and increases to $4,600 for managing 100 seats. For more information, visit www.shavlik.com.