Introduction to Atera Software Deployment

Deploying remote monitoring and management (RMM) software across client endpoints is an essential task for any IT service provider (ITSP). Done right, deployment lays the foundation for effective ongoing management. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of deploying Atera, one of the leading RMM platforms on the market.

 

We’ll cover the full deployment process from start to finish, including key considerations at each stage. Tips and best practices are included to help you deploy Atera swiftly and smoothly. Frequently asked questions (FAQs) are also addressed. By following the guidance in this post, you can be confident in your ability to deploy Atera across your client networks.

Deployment Process Overview

The Atera deployment process involves five main stages:

Preparation

This entails setting up your Atera portal account, configuring permissions and settings, and prepping your client onboarding information. It’s important to take time on preparation for a smooth rollout.

Client Setup

In this stage, you’ll create clients and sites within Atera and gather information like network details, licenses needed and desired deployment method (remote or on-site). Setting up clients correctly saves time later.

Agent Installation

Here the actual deployment occurs, whether remotely through Atera’s remote control tool or on-site if needed. Different versions exist for Windows, macOS, Linux and third-party integrations.

Post-Installation Tasks

Tasks like applying policies, configuring backups, installing optional tools and testing monitoring all happen after installation. Ensuring proper post-install configuration is critical.

Maintenance and Optimization

Ongoing tuning, software updates and periodic validation keep endpoints managed securely over the long run. Deployment sets the stage for ongoing maintenance.

 

Let’s explore each stage in more depth. For technical terms, think of clients as your customer accounts and sites as individual locations or networks belonging to each client.

 

Preparation Stage

To start strong, take time with preparation upfront:

 

Set up your Atera portal account with admin access and permissions. Generate API keys if needed.

Configure default settings and templates for things like typical policies, backup schedules and tool installations. These save repaving when deploying to new clients.

Build out or import client listings with key details populated in advance like primary contacts, addresses, device counts and software/license needs at each site.

Make sure your network and devices meet minimum requirements for remote access and agent installation. Test remote control capabilities.

Establish deployment order based on priority, readiness or other criteria. Arrange kickoff calls with first clients.

Create deployment checklists for on-site visits detailing what needs installed where and common tips.

 

Thorough preparation helps streamline future stages and avoids headaches down the road. Report any Portal issues to your provider early.

Client Setup Stage

Once prepared, move clients through onboarding systematically:

 

Create new clients and sites within the Atera Portal based on prepopulated details. Assign appropriate agent license counts.

Gather any missing low-level data like specific machine names, OS versions and domain/firewall configurations if applicable.

Determine preferred deployment method – remote via VPN/RDP or coordinated on-site install – based on environment complexities.

Schedule kickoff meetings or window for initial deployments highlighting steps, expectations and timelines.

Obtain necessary credentials, authorize remote access if remote install is preferred, and clarify contact procedures.

 

Careful setup at this stage makes subsequent deployment and management smoother overall. Address any client questions proactively.

 

Agent Installation Stage

Now it’s time for the actual deployment:

 

Connect remotely to target machines using credentials provided and Atera remote control.

Run Atera agent installation packages matching OS environments – pay attention to silent/interactive modes.

 

For third-party integrations, install connectors after Atera agent completes.

Track install progress, address any errors immediately and reinstall as needed.

Communicate status to clients regularly during deployment process.

For on-site installs, follow your prepped checklist methodically machine by machine.

Test basic monitoring and that devices are showing up and communicating normally in the Atera Portal.

Install optional tools as time allows or schedule post for optimization stage.

 

Go slowly, ensure clean installs, and resolve issues that arise without delay. Maintain close client communication.

Post-Installation Tasks

Post-deploy configuration sets the stage for successful ongoing management:

 

Apply standardized default policies for things like backups, antivirus and patch management.

Configure monitoring profiles to suit different device classes like servers, workstations, etc.

Tweak initial backup schedules and ensure synced successfully. Test sample restores.

Install any other promised or suggested tools like remote control, password manager, etc.

Validate devices are managed as expected – monitors fire, backups run, patches deploying, etc.

Address minor configuration tweaks or feature onboarding with clients.

Verify integrations are functioning as expected between Atera and linked platforms.

Capture feedback, knowledge and any lingering setup tasks for optimization.

 

Being thorough post-install helps clients maximize ongoing value from Atera.

 

Maintenance & Optimization Stage

Finally, ongoing maintenance cycles through the key stages with a focus on optimization:

 

Conduct regular system health checks in Atera Portal for any warnings/errors.

Patch Atera server and agent software promptly as updates are released.

Conduct periodic validation of configurations, policies and default settings.

Optimize monitoring profiles with experience over time as needed.

Capture deep dives or advanced configurations like custom scripts or other high-level tasks.

Schedule yearly health assessments to review Atera usage, needs and feature adoption over time.

Onboard new devices or sites smoothly leveraging standard processes from start.

 

With a strong ongoing maintenance routine client enjoy long term care, value and reassurance from deployed tools.

 

Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common Atera deployment questions:

 

Q: What are some tips for remote or hosted deployment versus on-site?
A: Remote prioritizes simplicity, but ensures solid remote access policies. On-site allows customizing to unique needs, but demands coordination. Consider time, budget and environment.

 

Q: How long should initial deployment take on average?
A: Most basic deployments with under 50 endpoints can complete within 1-2 weeks if prepared well. More complex jobs may take 2-4 weeks depending on environments, change coordination and available hours. Scope jobs realistically.

 

Q: What’s the best way to handle a mix of operating systems during deployment?
A: Group similar machines together when possible for efficiency. Deploy Windows first usually due to larger footprint. Test deployment methods thoroughly on one platform before scaling to others.

 

Q: How can the deployment process be streamlined for the future?
A: Refine checklists and standard processes over time. Build default configurations. Maintain detailed client/asset inventories. Develop onboarding documentation and tips. Train additional technicians. Leverage APIs and scripts when possible.

 

Q: What should clients expect during and after deployment?
A: Explain the typical stages, expected duration, status communication procedures and plans for ongoing support and optimization once complete. Manage expectations positively throughout the process.

 

In summary, carefully following proven processes for preparation, installation, configuration and maintenance will ensure a successful Atera deployment that sets the stage for long-term managed service success. Commit fully to quality at each stage for smoothest results.

 

I hope this guide has provided a helpful overview of deploying Atera software, including best practices, considerations and answers to common questions. Please let me know if any part of the deployment process needs further clarification or explanation.