| General |
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| Technical |
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| End Users |
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| GENERAL |
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| Pathway RDMS is a powerful and secure desktop and network management tool offered to IT Administrators. It allows your internal IT management and staff to manage your entire computing infrastructure, reduce downtime and increase productivity. It supplements the managed Internet connectivity provided by Pathway Communications and is part of Pathway’s continuing efforts to provide increased value to its clients. |
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Pathway RDMS assists IT staff in performing a variety of important functions which are required to ensure proper management of your IT infrastructure such as workstations and servers.
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Automated Software Patch Deployment and Patch Scan |
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Complete PC Inventory and Configuration |
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Remote Desktop Control from Anywhere with a Standard Web Browser |
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Periodic Network Audits |
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Automated System Monitoring and Alerts |
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Network policy enforcement |
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Integrated Management Reports |
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| Pathway RDMS allows IT Managers and Administrators to automate several routine but essential tasks. This allows them to reduce downtime, increase productivity and lets them focus on high-end work which requires their attention. RDMS is employed by hundreds of companies across North America and Europe and has proved its effectiveness time and again, as a safe, secure and highly reliable IT Management tool. |
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| A signup form will be emailed to you or you can download the form at . Complete the signup form and fax it back to us at 514-861-5050 – to the attention of the Provisioning Department. We will contact you within two business days to commence the installation process. |
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If your company is a Pathway Business Internet or Colocation customer, you receive FREE seats of Pathway RDMS based on your business account. The table below describes the number of FREE seats available for each Business Internet or Colocation service.
| Service |
Number of
Free Seats |
Service |
Number of
Free Seats |
| Colocation |
LAN Extension |
| Full Cabinet |
50 |
Fibre |
40 |
| 1/2 Cabinet |
30 |
T1 |
20 |
| 1/3 Cabinet |
20 |
Digital Service |
| Shared Colocation |
10 |
256K ISDN |
20 |
| Broadband |
128K ISDN |
10 |
| 4L Bonded ADSL |
40 |
Wireless |
| 3L Bonded ADSL |
30 |
1.5 M |
10 |
| 2L Bonded ADSL |
20 |
3.0 M |
10 |
| ADSL |
10 |
10.0 M |
10 |
| VLAN |
10 |
Cable |
| SDSL |
10 |
Cable |
10 |
Additional seats are available at a very low monthly cost, as listed below:
Number of Additional
Seats |
Monthly Fee
Per Seat |
One-time Setup Fee
Per Seat |
| 1-9 |
$5.99 |
$10.00 |
| 10-24 |
$4.99 |
$8.00 |
| 25-49 |
$3.99 |
$6.00 |
| 50+ |
$2.99 |
$4.00 |
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| Download the signup form at . Complete the signup form and fax it back to us at 514-861-5050 – to the attention of the Provisioning Department. |
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Yes. You may email or call Pathway Technical Support if you have any inquiries about the system. Pathway’s Technical Support only involves issues related to the use of Pathway RDMS and not to resolution of desktop, server or network problems themselves. You may reach Pathway's Technical Support by email at  or by phone |
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| Yes. You may use Pathway RDMS as long as you are a Pathway Customer using one of our services. Should you cease to be a Pathway Internet customer, your free accounts may be converted to pay-for use accounts by completing a Signup Form. |
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| TECHNICAL |
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How secure is Pathway RDMS? |
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Pathway RDMS is highly secured and can be safely used in almost all computer and network environments. |
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Each computer managed has a small agent installed. The agent initiates all communications back to the server. Since the agent will not accept any inbound connections, it is impossible for a third party application to attack the agent from the network. |
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RDMS does not need any input ports opened on client machines. This lets the agent do its job in any network configuration without introducing susceptibility to inbound port probes or new network attacks. |
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RDMS protects against man-in-the-middle attacks by encrypting all communications between the agent and server with 256-bit RC4 using a key that rolls every time the server tasks the agent (typically at least once per day). Since there are no plain-text data packets passing over the network, there is nothing available for an attacker to exploit. |
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Administrators access the RDMS server through a Web interface after a secure logon process. The system never sends passwords over the network and never stores them in the database. Each Administrator knows only his or her password. The client side combines the password with a random challenge, issued by the RDMS server for each session, and hashes it with SHA-1. The server side tests this result to grant access or not. The unique random challenge protects against a man-in-the-middle attack sniffing the network, capturing the random bits, and using them later to access the RDMS server. |
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The RDMS hosting server itself is protected by RDMS Patch Management. The RDMS Patch scan is run on the RDMS server every day. As soon as new patches are released, the RDMS Patch scan automatically detects they are needed and applies all security patches automatically. Finally, for maximum Web security, the RDMS server Web pages fully support operating as an SSL web site. |
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How can RDMS be used for Network Monitoring? |
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Pathway RDMS provides proactive, user defined monitoring with instant notification of problems or changes. You can receive a system alert when critical servers go down, users alter their configuration or a possible security threat occurs.
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User Defined Monitoring and Instant Alerts |
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Monitor the Windows Event log |
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Receive alerts on hardware and software changes |
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Receive alerts on specific file changes and protection violations |
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Know if disk space is running low on computers |
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Monitor computer online/offline status |
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Know if a server goes down |
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Know when traveling users with notebooks connect |
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Receive alert message and recipient configuration |
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Automatically discover all devices on the network |
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Receive Alerts when new devices are detected on the LAN |
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Easily view all known and unknown devices |
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How is RDMS used for Hardware and Software Inventory? |
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Using only a Web browser, IT Administrators can quickly obtain a complete and comprehensive hardware and software inventory. Automatic recurring computer audits keep inventory up-to-date and accurate at all times. With RDMS, there is no impact to users, no downtime and the inventory can be completed in minutes without physically visiting a computer.
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Complete PC Inventory and Configuration |
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Workstations, Notebooks, Servers |
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LAN, WAN, Mobile and Remote Users behind NAT and Firewalls |
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All hardware |
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CPUs, PCI cards, memory and drives with user notes |
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All installed software: |
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Licenses, version numbers, path and description |
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System information from DMI and SMBIOS including: |
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PC make, model, serial number, mother board type |
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Over 40 other detailed configuration items |
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OS information, version number and service pack |
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Inventory of internal and external network links |
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Current network settings including: |
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Local, WAN and gateway IP addresses |
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DNS, WINS, DHCP, and MAC address |
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CPU, RAM and Disk Volume details |
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Printers, local and network |
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User defined fields to capture additional system information |
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Automatic Baseline and Scheduled Computer Audits |
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Up-to-date and accurate inventories |
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Applications and drivers are all at the most up-to-date version |
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Centralized Inventory Repository |
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Complete hardware and software profile is stored on the server |
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Inventory data is always available |
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Pinpoint failures by manufacturer and model |
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Software License Compliance |
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Can patches be applied automatically using RDMS? |
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RDMS allows for patch deployment from simple, fully automated patch application-to-script based automation.
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Automatic and recurring patch scans by computer, group or user defined collections of computers |
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Scheduled by time, computer, group or user defined collections of computers |
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Does not require multiple patch servers |
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Ensures that all systems are protected, even remote users on laptops and workstations |
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Can be implemented across the entire network, not just servers |
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Approve or deny selected patches |
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Support for Windows 2003, 2000, NT, XP, 98 and 95 |
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Single rollout strategy and policy enforcement |
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Across operating systems and various locations |
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How can RDMS be used to Access Computers / Servers remotely? |
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RDMS provides secure, easy to use and fast remote access and PC remote control even from behind firewalls and NAT. This permits IT Support Staff to perform remote training and troubleshooting with improved response time and reduced travel.
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Transfer Files Between Local and Remote Computers |
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Available from computers behind gateways (NAT) without port mapping |
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Simple Windows drag and drop interface |
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No ports to change or open |
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No configuration of IP addresses |
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No extra hardware of software to deploy |
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Access computers behind gateways (NAT) without port mapping |
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Protected against man-in-the-middle attacks |
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All communications between the host and local connection encrypted 256-bit RC4 using a key that rolls at least once per day |
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No open ports on the client side |
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No plain-text data packets passing over the network |
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Nothing available for an attacker to exploit |
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Password protected |
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View only, user notification and video options |
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Configured on a per computer basis |
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What reporting capabilities does RDMS have? |
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RDMS provides comprehensive reports for all data collected and stored in the system. From hardware and software inventory to bandwidth usage and server uptime, RDMS provides IT Administrators the information they need to effectively manage the network infrastructure.
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Hardware and Software Inventory |
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Complete Computer Changes |
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Disk Utilization |
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License Usage and Compliance |
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Network Usage and Statistics |
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Server and Workstation Uptime History |
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Computer Logs and Status |
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Security Patch and Update Status |
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Scheduled Reports and Automatic Distribution |
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Reports for all, groups or specific computers |
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Detailed filtering and content selection |
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Immediate viewing with hyperlinks for quick data access |
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Export report data to HTML, Microsoft Word or Excel |
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What steps must be taken before installing Pathway RDMS? |
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Important Note: Please ensure you perform a LAN Watch prior to the deployment. For instructions to perform a LAN Watch, please refer to the Pathway RDMS Quick Start Guide.
The following steps outline the procedure to perform a large deployment: |
1. Select the Agent tab from the top menu.
2. Click on “Install Agents” from the left-hand menu.
3. Click on the machine ID associated to the mass install.
4. Enter your Administrator Logon and Password (Network domain\Administrator).
5. Select the package to install from the dropdown list.
6. Check off the machines to install the package on.
7. Click “Install”
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What are the requirements for computers that Pathway RDMS will be installed on? |
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Computers, on which the RDMS Agent will be installed and used, must have the following minimum requirements: |
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333 MHz Pentium-class CPU or greater |
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128 MB of RAM |
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30 MB of free disk space |
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Network Interface Card (NIC) or modem |
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Microsoft Windows 98, Me, NT 4.0, 2000, XP, Server 2003 |
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How does the RDMS client-server interaction work? |
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| The agent has a configuration file that is stored locally on the monitored system. This file contains connection information as well as many other agent preferences. The server updates this configuration file when an agent checks in. The check-in policy determines how often the agent will connect to the server to check if there are any scheduled tasks for it. These check-in packets are usually less than 1 kilobyte. When the agent checks in, the server goes through the database to determine if there are any scheduled tasks for the agent. If there are none, then the agent goes back to its dormant stage. Due to this check-in method, there may be a delay in certain operations, such as remote control. |
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How much load/traffic does the Pathway RDMS Agent generate? |
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| The installed agent does not incur load on a workstation. The agent is mainly a dormant process. Most of the time the agent simply sends a packet saying that there is nothing to be done. As most workstations will have a 2-minute check-in policy, this will result in about 567 kilobytes on a daily basis. |
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How can we uninstall Pathway RDMS? |
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| The RDMS agent should be uninstalled by selecting the client workstation/server from the Administrative console within the Agent menu. The software client can also be removed using the Add/Remove program option but this does not release the license with the RDMS server. |
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| END USERS |
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How does RDMS work? |
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Each managed computer has a small Pathway RDMS Agent installed on it. The Agent is a program that runs in the background, maintaining a connection with the Pathway RDMS server. The Agent initiates communications back to a central server. This connection allows your IT Administrator to perform tasks such as auditing, patch deployment and application installation and to remotely manage and control your computer without having to make desktop visits.
The installation of the Pathway RDMS Agent is quick and transparent. Once installed, it runs in the background and automatically connects to the Pathway RDMS server every time you start your workstation. A small icon will appear in your system tray to indicate the status of the Agent.
All information between the Agent and the Server is secure and encrypted and is not accessible to any third party. Use of the agent is secure, seamless and transparent and should not cause any adverse impact on network traffic or the computer CPU load.
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What are the various Agent status indicators? |
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There are four different status indicators for the Agent in the system tray: Blue – The Agent is connected to the server, and everything is normal.
Grey – The Agent is either unable to connect, or is in the process of connecting to the server.
Red – The User has disabled the remote control function.
Blinking – An Administrator has sent the User a message. You may view the message by double-clicking the blinking icon.
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What are the benefits of a remote access session? |
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Pathway RDMS provides your IT Administrator the ability to remotely access your computer and to share your mouse and keyboard for troubleshooting and/or diagnostic purposes. This means that during a remote session, you will still be able to use your mouse and keyboard. However, your IT Administrator will now be in a position to directly perform complex remedial tasks and to fix difficult problems without the need for you to replicate telephonic instructions.
You will be in a position, not only to observe when your IT Administrator takes control of your machine, but also to disable such access if necessary. By default, you are asked to allow remote control, but this option can be disabled. Once you allow remote access, you can watch while your IT Administrator performs various tasks on your screen, right in front of you.
There are three main benefits to remote access:
1. Faster Problem Resolution
By remotely sharing your keyboard, mouse and monitor with your IT Administrator, you are saved the trouble of carrying out complex telephonic instructions and problems can now be directly and quickly resolved.
2. Safety
All communication between your computer and your IT Administrator is secure and encrypted. No third party can view, access, monitor, record or intervene in any way, in this process.
3. Privacy
Your IT Administrator will see only what you see, and whatever you decide to show him/her on your screen. You may disable the remote session at any time if you feel it necessary.
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How can I disable remote control? |
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| You may disable an IT Administrator’s ability to remotely control your computer by right-clicking the RDMS icon in the system tray, and selecting ‘Disconnect Clients’. |
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How do I contact my IT Administrator for support? |
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There are two methods that you can use to contact your IT Administrator:
1. Trouble Ticket generation and review
You can create “Trouble Tickets” and route them to the Administrator. A Trouble Ticket is simply a record of the trouble/problem you are experiencing. This is automatically emailed to your IT Administrator, with a request for help, and logged thereafter, for record. You may view the status of your Trouble Ticket(s), by:
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Right-clicking on the Agent in the system tray and selecting ‘Contact Administrator…’. |
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When the User Access window appears, select ‘Create New Ticket’ or ‘View Tickets’ from the left-hand menu. |
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This feature allows you to see whether your request has been acted upon and also provides a historical record of the various Trouble Tickets you have generated. 2. Email
You can send an email to your IT available Administrator by:
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Right-clicking the Agent in the system tray and selecting ‘Contact Administrator…’. |
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When the User Access window pops up, select ‘Send Email’ from the left-hand menu. |
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How can I change my contact information? |
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You can change your profile information – contact name, email address, and phone number as follows:
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Right-click the Agent in the system tray and select ‘Contact Administrator…’. |
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When the User Access window pops up, select ‘Change Profile’ from the left-hand menu |
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