GFI Cloud
User Guide
A guide to administer GFI Cloud and its services
Contents
1 Introduction to GFI Cloud 5
1.1 The aim of this guide 6
1.2 What is GFI Cloud? 6
1.3 GFI Cloud features 6
1.4 How it works 6
2 Quick Tour 8
2.1 GFI Cloud layout and content 9
2.2 The main elements of GFI Cloud 13
3 Installing the Agent and Adding Services 15
3.1 Quickstart – installation and setup 16
3.2 How it works 17
3.3 Add a computer – registering and installing the first agent 18 3.4 Add a computer – installing agents across the network 23 3.5 Add a computer – installing the agent using group policy 25
3.6 What happens once an agent is installed? 26
3.7 Remove a computer from the network 28
3.8 Add a service to a computer 30
3.9 Add VIPRE Business to computers 31
3.10 Add services to multiple computers simultaneously 35
3.11 Remove a service from a computer 38
4 Licensing Services 40
4.1 Quickstart – Licenses 41
4.2 What are licenses? 42
4.3 Free trial 44
4.4 Checking which computers have licenses assigned 45
4.5 Checking the pool of licenses available 46
4.6 Assigning and removing licenses 47
5 Working with Computers on the Network 49
5.1 Quickstart — working with computers on GFI Cloud 51
5.2 Dashboard 52
5.5 Computer status 65
5.6 Notification types 68
5.7 List all computers on a network 71
5.8 Identify computers on the network with problems 73
5.9 View computers as a grid or list 74
5.10 Filter computers 77
5.11 Search for a specific computer 79
5.12 Actions you can perform on multiple computers 80
5.13 View the details for each computer 85
5.14 Actions you can perform on a computer 90
5.15 Using TeamViewer to connect to a computer 94
5.16 Computer settings 99
5.17 Change the computer name 102
6 VIPRE Business 103
6.1 Quickstart – VIPRE Business 104
6.2 What it does 105
6.3 How it works 106
6.4 How VIPRE Business updates 107
6.5 Where to see VIPRE Business running 108
6.6 Computers with issues to resolve 111
6.7 VIPRE Business notifications 112
6.8 Policies 114
6.9 Scans 134
6.10 Threats 138
6.11 Quarantine 144
7 Network Server Monitor 159
7.1 Quickstart — Network Server Monitor 160
7.11 Receiving alerts for checks 201
7.12 Acknowledging notifications and alerts 203
8 Asset Tracking 206
8.1 What Asset Tracking does 207
8.2 Summary information 208
8.3 Hardware 209
8.4 Software 211
9 Administrator Account, Receiving Alerts and Contact Details 213
9.1 Quickstart 214
9.2 Administrator details 215
9.3 Receiving alerts from GFI Cloud 217
9.4 Change account password 219
10 Technical Information — About the Agent, Security and Resilience 220
10.1 Technical requirements 220
10.2 GFI Cloud architecture 221
10.3 Security issues 222
10.4 GFI Cloud resilience 224
1 Introduction to GFI Cloud
A brief introduction to GFI Cloud and its features. 1. The aim of this guide
The purpose of the GFI Cloud user guide. 2. What is GFI Cloud?
Overview of GFI Cloud and what it does. 3. GFI Cloud features
The basic feature set of GFI Cloud. 4. How it works
1.1 The aim of this guide
The aim of this guide is to help anyone to make use of GFI Cloud, even if they have little or no IT administration experience.
It covers every aspect of GFI Cloud, including getting started, installing the components needed to make it work and how to configure the platform.
This section explains what GFI Cloud is, its features and a basic explanation of how it works.
1.2 What is GFI Cloud?
GFI Cloud is an innovative IT administration platform for small- and medium-sized businesses. It enables companies to control and monitor their entire network from anywhere via a secure, cloud-based management console.
Using GFI Cloud, you can:
Protect your network from viruses and spyware with GFI VIPRE® Business Online™. Monitor your workstation and server health with GFI Network Server Monitor Online™. Manage every computer on your network from one management console.
1.3 GFI Cloud features
GFI Cloud provides advanced monitoring and diagnostic tools for networks of any size, and its service-based architecture is fully automated. It requires no training to use.
It has a number of key features:
Single integrated solution for antivirus, asset and network management.
From a web browser, businesses can manage core IT services, across their network, from one simple-to-use dashboard.
A lightweight agent links each computer to the GFI Cloud, regardless of location. Anytime, anywhere, you can check the status of your workstations and servers and their detailed hardware and software inventory.
1.4 How it works
GFI Cloud is managed from a secure online management console accessed via an Internet browser. There is no special software required to access it.
Each computer to monitor requires the installation of a lightweight agent that
communicates with GFI Cloud and handles tasks such as monitoring the network, running services and assessing the health and status of each computer.
GFI Cloud makes use of the following:
1. The GFI Cloud management console– The web-based console that administrators access to manage and monitor computers on a network.
2. The GFI Cloud agent – The software agent installed on each computer.
3. Services– Services provided by GFI Cloud, used to monitor computers, manage anti-virus and track assets.
2 Quick Tour
Find your way around GFI Cloud. 1. GFI Cloud layout and content
An outline of GFI Cloud's screens. 2. The main elements of GFI Cloud
2.1 GFI Cloud layout and content
There are some common elements used throughout GFI Cloud: 1. Main menu
2. Section menu 3. Content area 4. Notifications
2.1.1 Main menu
The major sections of GFI Cloud can always be accessed from the main menu, available on the left of any screen.
Screenshot 1: The main menu in its default mode showing icons only.
It contains a list of icons, each of which link to the main sections within the platform:
Screenshot 2: The main menu in expanded mode, displaying the full name of each section.
Click on the small arrows at the top of the icons menu to display the full name of each section.
2.1.2 Section menu
Along the top of some pages the horizontal section menu provides access to screens, functionality and actions related to the section you are using.
Screenshot 3: The section menu from the VIPRE Business section of GFI Cloud.
This menu displays items specific to the VIPRE Business service’s focus on protection, and provides access to policy information, threats and quarantine.
2.1.3 Content area
On every screen there is a content area. Its exact content changes depending on context, but the content is always in the same place.
Screenshot 5: The content area for a single computer.
2.1.4 Notifications
GFI Cloud uses notifications to highlight issues with computers on your network. These are used within the Dashboard and on each computer's Overview screen.
Screenshot 6: Notifications always provide a short description of their status.
Notifications highlight specific issues with computers. They provide a brief description of the issue and access to associated actions.
2.2 The main elements of GFI Cloud
GFI Cloud is comprised of six main sections. Each section is always available from the main menu.
Screenshot 7: The main menu in expanded mode, displaying the full name of each section.
Section Description
Dashboard The start screen listing all open notifications from every computer on the network.
Find out more about the Dashboard »
Network The network enables you to see and act upon every computer with the GFI Cloud agent installed, and provides filter options to help you focus on computers of interest.
Find out more about the Network »
Section Description
Installation Computers can be added to GFI Cloud at any time.
3 Installing the Agent and Adding Services
How to install the GFI Cloud agent and add licensed services to computers. 1. Quickstart - installation and setup
Get started with installation and setup. 2. How it works
A quick overview of the components involved in setting up GFI Cloud.
Adding and removing computers
3. Add a computer – registering and installing the first agent
We have streamlined the process to add the first computer immediately after reg-istration.
4. Add a computer – installing agents across the network
All other computers can be added by installing the GFI Cloud agent on each of them. 5. Add a computer – installing the agent using group policy
Installing the agent on multiple computers across a network using group policy. 6. What happens once an agent is installed?
The automatic processes invoked by GFI Cloud. 7. Remove a computer from the network
How to remove a computer from GFI Cloud.
Adding and removing services
8. Add a service to a computer
How to add licensed services to computers. 9. Add VIPRE Business to computers
If you enable VIPRE Business on a computer there are additional factors to consider. 10. Add services to multiple computers
You can enable services on many computers simultaneously. 11. Remove a service from a computer
3.1 Quickstart – installation and setup
How to get up and running with GFI Cloud quickly.1. Register
Visitwww.gficloud.comand complete the registration process.
2. Add the first computer – download and install the agent
Follow the registration process and download the agent to begin the trial. This initial agent will include the services selected during registration.
3. View the computer
The computer will then be visible on theDashboard– the first screen you see when you log in.
4. Adding more computers – download more agents
Go toInstallation > Download nowto download extra agents and install them on each computer you wish to monitor on GFI Cloud.
5. Add services to the new computers
Once the agent is installed new computers will appear on theDashboard. VisitLicenses > Assign/Remove Licensesto add services to each computer.
6. Monitor
Everything should now automatically work with no further input from an administrator.
Everything is automated
GFI Cloud is automated, and begins working immediately –VIPRE Businessis policy-based, and assigns protection policies automatically based on computer type; Network Server Monitorruns a default set of checks based on each computer’s unique hardware and software configuration.
3.2 How it works
GFI Cloud is a cloud-based platform that uses a software agent to monitor computers from a secure management console.
It makes use of the following:
1. The GFI Cloud management console– The web-based, secure console administrators use to manage and monitor computers on a network.
2. The GFI Cloud agent – The software agent installed on each computer to monitor.
What is the GFI Cloud agent?
The agent is a program installed on each target computer running Windows XP or later. It works in the same way as any Windows program or application and can be
3.3 Add a computer – registering and installing the first
agent
This section covers the procedure for using GFI Cloud for the first time. As part of the registration process you will be prompted to download and install the GFI Cloud agent.
Important:Using GFI Cloud for the first time is slightly different from deploying it to a network for the second and subsequent computers. The initial registration uses a streamlined method that helps administrators quickly get started with GFI Cloud to evaluate its usefulness during the trial period.
3.3.1 Register and choose services of interest
Visitwww.gficloud.comand register. The registration form only has to be completed once.
Screenshot 8: The GFI Cloud registration form.
During the registration process choose the service or services you are interested in. This will then be packaged with the download of the agent (available after you log in for the first
Screenshot 9: The registration process prompts you to choose services to test GFI Cloud.
3.3.2 Log in and accept the EULA
Screenshot 10: The End User License Agreement.
ClickI acceptif you agree with the End User License Agreement (EULA).
3.3.3 Download the agent and install
Screenshot 11: The download screen. The agent should download automatically.
When prompted, clickRunto download the agent software and follow the instructions provided by the wizard.
You will be logged in and automatically taken to GFI Cloud's dashboard once the installation is complete.
Useful Tip:It is common for administrators to try out GFI Cloud on their own
computer, but it can easily be any machine on your network such as a spare computer or an old server.
Screenshot 12: The Dashboard screen after the first login.
3.3.5 What happens now?
3.4 Add a computer – installing agents across the network
After initial registration, all subsequent computers require the agent to be downloaded and installed.3.4.1 Get the agent
Log in to GFI Cloud and go toInstallation > Download Now.
Screenshot 13: The download screen provides instructions and a link to download the agent.
Using group policies to install the agent on multiple computers
There is an advanced option to install the GFI Cloud agent on multiple computers across your network using group policy.
3.4.2 Install the agent
Screenshot 14: The run dialog box.
Install the downloaded agent on the target computer or computers. When complete each computer is listed on GFI Cloud’sNetworkscreen ready for services to be enabled.
Important:Installing the agent requires administrator privileges.
3.4.3 What happens now?
3.5 Add a computer – installing the agent using group
pol-icy
Go toInstallation > Download group policy package.
Screenshot 15: The installation screen contains a group policy package to help install the agent across multiple computers.
This advanced option is for organizations that make use of group policies to deploy the agent to multiple devices on a network. The downloadableGroup policy packagecontains the requiredagent.msiand associatedpackage.zipfile for distribution via group policy.
Important:Bothagent.msiandpackage.zipmust be extracted to the software distribution folder to be used to create the network installer.
agent.msi— used for the installation or removal of the agent.
3.6 What happens once an agent is installed?
Each computer requiresservices to be added. However, there are a number of features of the platform that begin working right away.
3.6.1 The computer is added to the network and listed on the
man-agement console
Once the agent is installed it automatically communicates with GFI Cloud and appears on the management console as part of your network. It can be found on theNetworkscreen – accessed from the main menu that appears on every screen.
Find out more about the Network »
3.6.2 Each computer is assigned a type
Each computer is automatically designated as one of three types: Server
Desktop Laptop
Services may work differently depending on the type of computer they run on. If the VIPRE Business service is enabled, for instance, it uses different policies for servers than desktops or laptops.
Computer type auto-detection
GFI Cloud automatically detects computer types. They are categorized as one of three: a server, desktop or laptop. Each is assigned a distinct icon.
Server
Desktop
Laptop
Note:Although the icons are constant, the colors change to indicate the computer's status.
Find out more about computer status »
3.6.3 Asset tracking – each computer is analyzed by GFI Cloud
GFI Cloud’s asset tracking service is enabled automatically. When the computer first checks in to GFI Cloud the management console begins to compile information about it. This includes software information as well as the hardware configuration of the machine. This information is available for any computer on GFI Cloud atNetwork > (Computer name) > Asset Tracking.
3.7 Remove a computer from the network
Occasionally you may need to remove a computer from your network. This happens when computers fail, are replaced or simply no longer needed.
3.7.1 Option 1 – Remove the installed agent from the computer
Uninstall theGFI Cloud agentif you have direct access to the target computer. This can be done by following the normal process to uninstall programs from a Windows computer. The process of uninstalling will prompt the agent to contact GFI Cloud and remove it from the management console. It will also remove any software components related to GFI Cloud services.
Important:If you remove an agent it will automatically remove all historical information about the computer. This cannot be retrieved.
3.7.2 Option 2 – Delete the computer from GFI Cloud's dashboard
If a computer cannot be reached – for example, it is damaged or lost – it can be removed from GFI Cloud via the management console:Network > (Computer name) > Settings
Screenshot 16: The computer settings screen containing the Remove Computer function.
Screenshot 17: The Remove Computer confirmation box.
ClickRemove Computerto confirm and it will be removed from the management console.
The agent is still installed on the computer
The agent will still be installed on the computer; this process simply removes it from the management console so it will no longer be monitored.
It is important to remove the GFI Cloud agent from the target computer if it is possible to do so – the agent cannot be uninstalled remotely for security reasons.
What happens if the agent tries to contact GFI Cloud once it is removed?
If a computer tries to contact GFI Cloud once it has been removed using the process above, the request is ignored. The computer is no longer monitored by the
management console and no services can therefore run on it. If this happens the GFI Cloud agent installed on the computer should be uninstalled.
3.8 Add a service to a computer
Services are added to computers by assigning licenses at Licenses > Assign/remove licenses.
Screenshot 18: The Assign/remove licenses button.
This displays a list of computers you can add services to.
Screenshot 19: The Assign/remove licenses screen.
Select the checkbox next to the name of the computer to add the service you require. Select multiple checkboxes to add services to many computers at once. ClickSaveto confirm. The service is automatically enabled.
3.9 Add VIPRE Business to computers
If you enable VIPRE Business on a computer there are additional factors to consider. 1. Remove other antivirus products – requires a restart
2. Enable VIPRE Business – may require a separate restart 3. Monitoring the installation process
3.9.1 Other antivirus products
VIPRE Business can only be enabled on a computer that does not have another antivirus tool in use.
Screenshot 20: The Licenses screen where services are enabled by assigning licenses to individual computers.
Go toLicenses > Assign/remove licensesand select the computers to add VIPRE Business to. ClickSave.
Screenshot 21: When you assign a license for VIPRE Business you are presented with further installation options.
Other products part 1. Automatic uninstall of other antivirus products
Screenshot 22: GFI Cloud can attempt to remove other antivirus products it finds.
Select the checkbox and VIPRE Business will try to uninstall an existing antivirus product if found.
Important:GFI Cloud successfully removes most antivirus tools from computers; however it may not be possible to uninstall some products in this way. If this is the case manually remove the antivirus product from the target computer.
Other products part 2. Prompt uninstall of other antivirus products after
pausing
If the checkbox to automatically uninstall other antivirus products is not selected, VIPRE Business will indicate that another antivirus product has been found on theDashboard.
Screenshot 23: If the automatic uninstall option is not selected GFI Cloud will indicate if it finds other antivirus products and provide a further option to uninstall.
This will pause the VIPRE Business install process until the other antivirus product is removed. If you clickUninstall existing AVthis will prompt you to confirm the restart options (see below).
Enterprise antivirus software using automatic push installations
Some other antivirus products use automatic push installations to ensure computers are always protected. When VIPRE Business removes these products, they may be automatically reinstalled from another product’s central console.
If your existing antivirus product uses push installations, it must be disabled to avoid disrupting VIPRE Business.
Other products part 3. Restart options after uninstall
If the checkbox for automatic removal is selected, VIPRE Business has additional options to configure rebooting the computer – this is required to complete the removal of other antivirus products.
Screenshot 24: Any attempt by GFI Cloud to uninstall other antivirus products requires you to choose restart options.
1. The recommended option is to reboot automatically after informing the computer user.
2. The second option is to not reboot automatically – the computer will need to be man-ually rebooted. Go toNetwork > (Computer name) > Actions > Remote rebootonce the other antivirus product is removed.
Important:Servers are never automatically restarted. Even if the option to automatically reboot is chosen, a server must be rebooted manually.
1. Restart manually
2. Restart the computer from the GFI Cloud management console
Restart 1. Restart manually
If you have access to the computer, restart it. Alternatively, inform the computer user to do so.
Restart 2. Restart the computer from GFI Cloud
Go to theDashboard. This will list all notifications, including a notification to restart a computer to complete the installation of VIPRE Business.
Screenshot 25: The Dashboard provides notifications that include associated actions, including the option to restart the computer to complete installation of VIPRE Business components.
ClickReboot computer.
3.9.3 Monitoring the installation process
GFI Cloud helps you keep track of the process of enabling VIPRE Business.
Monitoring 1. Licensing screen
In theLicensessection (where you select a computer to add VIPRE Business) the status is updated throughout.
Monitoring 2. The Dashboard keeps track of progress
Dashboardnotifications include progress reports, such as an indication that VIPRE Business components are being installed on the computer.
Screenshot 27: The Dashboard keeps you up to date with the process of enabling a service.
3.10 Add services to multiple computers simultaneously
Go to theNetworksection using the link on the main menu.Screenshot 28: The main menu highlighting the link to the Network.
Screenshot 29: The Network screen, listing every computer with the GFI Cloud agent installed.
3.10.1 Select an irregular series of computers
To select an irregular series of individual computers, click each computer while holding the
Control key to create your selection.
Screenshot 30: An irregular series of individual computers can be selected using the Control key.
3.10.2 Create a contiguous selection of computers
To create a contiguous selection — for example, the first to the ninth computer in sequence — click the first computer then, holding theShift key, select the last.
Screenshot 31: A contiguous selection of computers can be created using the Shift key.
3.10.3 Adding services to all the computers selected
Once you have selected the computers you wish to add services to, clickAdd servicesnear the top of the screen.
Screenshot 32: The Add services link, used to enable services.
This will display a dialog box prompting you to select the services to add to the computers. If all the computers selected already have one of the services enabled this option will be unavailable.
3.11 Remove a service from a computer
Services are removed from computers at Licenses > Assign/remove licenses.
Screenshot 34: The Assign/remove licenses button.
This displays a list of computers with services enabled.
Screenshot 35: The Assign/remove licenses screen.
Unselect the checkbox next to the name of the computer to remove the service. Unselect multiple checkboxes to remove services from many computers at once. ClickSaveto confirm.
Important:Removing a service automatically removes all historical information for the service on the computer. This cannot be retrieved.
4 Licensing Services
This section outlines the way in which services are licensed on GFI Cloud. 1. Quickstart
Get started with licenses. 2. What are licenses?
How licensing works on GFI Cloud. 3. Free trial
About the 30 day free trial.
4. Checking which computers have licenses assigned Lists computers and the licenses assigned to them. 5. Checking the pool of licenses available
The licenses available for use. 6. Assigning and removing licenses
4.1 Quickstart – Licenses
Get started with licensing GFI Cloud’s services.
1. Services are licensed
Services on GFI Cloud are licensed. Administrators assign licenses to computers from a pool of purchased licenses to enable the services on each computer.
2. Available licenses
The pool of available licenses can be seen by clicking Licenseson the main menu found on every screen.
3. Everything is automated
Assigning licenses from the pool atLicenses > Assign/remove licensesautomatically enables a service.
4.2 What are licenses?
To make use of the services offered by GFI Cloud, administrators must assign licenses to individual computers.
4.2.1 How licensing works
Purchased licenses are added to a pool of available licenses, any of which can be assigned to a computer to make use of a service.
The process is as follows:
1. Licenses are purchased for GFI Cloud’s services;
2. These are added to a pool of licenses, available for use with any computer; 3. Each computer can be assigned a license, enabling it to make use of a service.
Whenever an administrator attempts to enable a service on a computer, GFI Cloud checks if there are sufficient licenses available first.
4.2.2 The license period
Screenshot 36: The license period.
Prior to this there is a30 day free trialavailable to everyone. During this all services are available for each computer without the need to first buy licenses. This provides
unrestricted access to every part of GFI Cloud.
At the end of the license period there is asunset period. At this stage administrators can log in to GFI Cloud and the enabled services are still running, but normal functionality is restricted and no updates can take place. New licenses will need to be purchased.
4.2.3 What services are licensed?
Service License status
VIPRE Business Requires license
Network Server Monitor Requires license
Asset Tracking Free – no license required
Licenses are not tied to a specific computer
Licenses can be used on any computer. A license for VIPRE Business, for example, can be assigned toComputer 1. If Computer 1 is decommissioned and replaced its license can be reassigned to the replacement,Computer 2.
4.2.4 Assigning a license to a computer enables the service
Assigning a license enables each service. The process is automated and can be accessed fromLicenses > Assign/remove licenses.
Find out more about assigning a license to a computer »
You do not license GFI Cloud
Administrators do not license GFI Cloud. Licenses are only available for services within the platform such as network monitoring or antivirus.
4.3 Free trial
The GFI Cloud free trial provides an opportunity for administrators to try its services without the need to purchase licenses.
4.3.1 How the free trial works
Administrators register with GFI Cloud atwww.gficloud.com. Downloading the agent starts the 30 day free trial for the service or services selected.
4.3.2 The trial applies to services, not GFI Cloud
The 30 day free trial applies to the services available on GFI Cloud, not access to GFI Cloud itself.
During registration you choose services to test it with and once these begin to run on the first computer the trial starts.
If you choose only a single service to begin, then the 30 day trial applies to this service only. If you subsequently try another service (for example, two weeks later) this triggers a distinct 30 day free trial for the second service when enabled.
4.3.3 Unrestricted access
During the trial administrators have unrestricted access to GFI Cloud’s services. Any service can be enabled on any computer.
4.4 Checking which computers have licenses assigned
ClickLicenseson the main menu on the left of any screen.Screenshot 37: The main menu highlighting the link to the Licenses section.
The licenses summary screen lists every computer on GFI Cloud and the licenses assigned to them.
4.5 Checking the pool of licenses available
ClickLicenseson the main menu on the left of any screen.Screenshot 39: The main menu highlighting the link to the Licenses section.
The Licenses summary screen displays the licenses table. It lists the number of licenses available, their expiry dates and the number of days left before they must be renewed.
4.6 Assigning and removing licenses
Licenses are assigned to individual computers to enable a service. They can be assigned or unassigned at Licenses > Assign/remove licenses.
Screenshot 41: The Assign/remove licenses link.
Unused licenses
Unassigned licenses are added back to the pool of licenses. These are then available for any computer to use.
5 Working with Computers on the Network
Navigating the network, finding computers and focusing on issues. 1. Quickstart
Overview of finding and managing computers on the network.
Network basics
2. Dashboard
All outstanding notifications for computers requiring attention. 3. The Network
Lists every computer on the network and indicates their status. 4. Grouping computers
Computers can be organized using groups. 5. Computer status
Every computer is assigned a status. 6. Notification types
The four types of notifications to highlight issues.
Network-wide
7. View every computer on the network List everything on your network. 8. Identify computers with problems
Quickly identify computers that require attention. 9. View computers as a grid or list
Computers can be displayed in convenient ways. 10. Filter computers
Computers can be isolated using filters. 11. Search for a specific computer
Search for computers using names.
12. Actions you can perform on multiple computers
Bulk actions you can perform on many computers at once.
17. Change the computer name
5.1 Quickstart — working with computers on GFI Cloud
How to access computers on your network.1. Start with the Dashboard
The Dashboard lists outstanding notifications, providing immediate access to computers with issues. It is the first screen you see when you log in.
Find out more about the Dashboard »
2. The network section lists every computer
The Network screen lists every computer with the GFI Cloud agent installed. Each is assigned a color-coded status.
Find out more about the Network »
3. Focus on specific computers
The Dashboard and the Network section include filters to help you focus on computers of interest. For example, focus only on computers requiring attention.
Find out more about using filters to isolate computers »
4. Problems float to the top
Computers requiring attention are always presented first.
5. Find out more on any computer
5.2 Dashboard
TheDashboardis the first screen you see when you log in. It can be accessed from any screen using the main menu.
Screenshot 43: The main menu highlighting the link to the Dashboard.
The Dashboard lists all outstanding notifications for computers across the network.
Screenshot 44: The Dashboard, listing notifications and their associated actions.
Each computer name can be clicked for more information, and many of the notifications have associated actions that can be operated from the Dashboard screen.
Each notification is color-coded to indicate the nature of the notification. Find out more about notification types »
5.2.1 Actions for notifications
Screenshot 45: Many notifications have associated actions.
Many notifications can be acted upon. Each possible action is prominently displayed on the notification itself.
5.2.2 Filtering
Screenshot 46: Filter computers using services and notifications.
By default, the Dashboard lists all current notifications. This list can be reduced using the filter menus.
Filter by groups
GFI Cloud can organize computers into groups which can then be used to filter computers.
Screenshot 47: The filter options, with Groups highlighted.
Screenshot 48: A list of available groups. Multiple groups can be used to make a selection.
Select the groups you wish to use to filter and clickOk. This will isolate the notifications from the computers that belong to the selected computer groups.
Find out more about managing groups »
Filter by service
Screenshot 49: Notifications listed on the Dashboard can be isolated by the services in use.
You can focus on notifications produced by a specific service such as VIPRE Business or Network Server Monitor.
Filter by notification type
Notifications can be filtered by type. These will isolate the notifications displayed using the following four types:
Critical notifications Warning notifications Installation notifications License notifications
Find out more about the different types of notifications »
5.3 The Network
TheNetworkcan be accessed from any screen using the main menu.
Screenshot 51: The main menu highlighting the link to the Network.
The Network section enables you to see and act upon every computer with the GFI Cloud agent installed.
Screenshot 52: The Network screen displays every computer on GFI Cloud. It does the following:
Provides a list of computers on your network; Highlights computers requiring attention; Provides access to individual computers;
Identifies the services enabled on each computer; Add services to computers.
It acts as a starting point for tracking down problems and for managing an entire network from a single place.
Problems float to the top
Within theNetworksection computers with problems appear at the top. This helps you monitor the network by focusing on areas that require immediate attention; a process you can further refine on any screen using filtering options.
Computer type auto-detection
GFI Cloud automatically detects computer types. They are categorized as one of three: a server, desktop or laptop. Each is assigned a distinct icon.
Server
Desktop
Laptop
Note:Although the icons are constant, the colors change to indicate the computer's status.
Find out more about computer status »
5.4 Grouping computers
Groups are created by you. Each computer can only belong to one group, and these are typically used to represent the way you naturally organize your resources. For example, into departments like Finance, Sales, Marketing and so on.
Groups can be created, deleted and managed at any time.
One default group is created by GFI Cloud
There is an initial group created by GFI Cloud calledDefault. All computers belong to this when the agent is first installed.
5.4.1 Use groups to focus on specific computers
Screenshot 54: Groups are a basic organizational element of GFI Cloud, but can be used to actively filter computers.
Groups can be used to filter computers when viewing notifications or a list of computers across the network. For example, only display information from computers belonging to the
Marketing group.
Find out more about filtering computers »
5.4.2 Find out which group a computer belongs to
View the detail of a computer atNetwork > (Computer name). The name of the group it belongs to is displayed in its summary box.
Screenshot 55: Each computer summarizes important information, including the name of the group it belongs to.
5.4.3 Changing the group a computer belongs to
View the detail of a computer atNetwork > (Computer name). The group can be changed by clicking theEditicon.
Screenshot 56: Click edit to change the group a computer belongs to from the summary box.
Note:The group must already exist. It cannot be created from the choose group dialog. SeeManaging, creating and deleting groups, below.
5.4.4 Changing the group of multiple computers simultaneously
On theNetworkscreen you can select multiple computers to perform actions on.
Screenshot 58: The Network screen, highlighting the Actions available. Click theActionslink and clickChange Group.
Screenshot 59: The change group dialog, providing a list of groups to choose from.
This prompts you to select an alternative group to add the computers to. Groups must be created inGroup settingsbefore they will appear on the list.
5.4.5 The Default group
Screenshot 60: All computers added to GFI Cloud are automatically added to the Default group.
GFI Cloud has one default group as standard. Initially, all computers belong to this group. They can be moved to another group at any time.
Note:The default group cannot be deleted or renamed.
5.4.6 Managing, creating and deleting groups
This lists all existing groups and the number of computers assigned to each. A computer can only belong to a single group.
Create a new group
ClickCreate group. This produces a dialog box to enter a name for the group.
Screenshot 62: The new group dialog box. Each name must be unique.
Each group must have a unique name. ClickOkto create the group, which will appear in the list in alphabetical order.
Delete a group
Screenshot 63: Each created group can be deleted at any time by clicking the trash icon.
Screenshot 64: The delete group confirmation dialog. ClickDeleteto confirm.
You cannot delete groups that contain computers
Screenshot 65: If you attempt to delete a group still in use, a dialog will prompt you to first reassign the computers. To delete a group you must ensure there are no computers assigned to it. If you attempt to delete a group currently in use the dialog will prompt you to reassign the computers.
You cannot delete the default group
Change the name of a group
Screenshot 66: Click to change the name of a group.
Click the group's name to change it. This prompts the name dialog. Each name must be unique.
Screenshot 67: The change name dialog.
5.5 Computer status
Every computer on GFI Cloud is assigned a status. This conveys useful information about the computer and can be used to make quick assessments about the health of a network and the likely actions needed.
There are seven statuses used: 1. Critical
2. Overdue (servers only) 3. Warning
4. No notifications
5. Installation in progress 6. No services
7. Offline
5.5.1 Critical
The computer has a critical issue highlighted by a service.
It is indicated using a red color.
5.5.2 Overdue
Computers that have not checked in to GFI Cloud within an agreed timescale. This status only applies to servers.
5.5.3 Warning
The computer has issues highlighted by services running on the machine.
It is indicated using an amber color.
5.5.4 No notifications
The computer is in good health, with no issues reported by enabled services.
It is indicated using a green color.
5.5.5 Installation in progress
The computer is in the process of enabling a service. If the status persists, there may be an issue with the installation of the components needed for a service to run.
It is indicated using a blue color.
It is indicated using a dark gray color.
5.5.7 Offline
The computer has shut down and cannot be reached.
It is indicated using a light gray color.
Offline or overdue?
Anoverduestatus indicates a computer that has failed to check in to GFI Cloud within the expected timescale. Anofflinecomputer, by comparison, has performed a correct shut down process, which includes informing GFI Cloud that it will be offline.
TheOverduestatus is only applied to servers, not to desktops or laptops.
5.5.8 Computer status indicates the most critical issue
Status is hierarchical. The most important status is always the one used when indicating the overall status of the computer.
A simple example of precedence
If a computer has acritical issuehighlighted by Network Server Monitor, but hasno issuesreported by VIPRE Business, thecritical statuswill take precedence over theno notifications statustriggered by VIPRE Business.
5.5.9 Notification status indicates the severity of the issue only
Notifications always indicate the severity of the notification itself. They do not inherit status or display the overall status of a computer.
Screenshot 68: A list of notifications found on a computer's Overview screen. The color used by notifications indicates the severity of the specific issue, not the overall status of the computer.
A computer can have several notifications at once; the overall computer status only reflects the most severe notification. The notifications themselves are individually color-coded to reflect their own state.
5.6 Notification types
Notificationsare seen on both theDashboard, listing all notifications from computers across the network, and theOverview screenfor each computer, listing only the
notifications produced for a single machine. They are designed to communicate important issues to administrators.
1. Critical 2. Warning 3. Installation 4. License
5.6.1 Critical notifications
Screenshot 70: Critical notifications with associated actions.
Critical notifications are the most severe issued by GFI Cloud. They are indicated by a red color and are designed to highlight problems on the network you must attend to.
5.6.2 Warning notifications
Screenshot 71: Warning notifications.
Warnings are less severe than critical warnings and are indicated using an amber color. These require less immediate intervention, but are still important.
Notifications are issued to help you keep track of the installation of GFI Cloud components. These are highlighted using a blue color, and cover installation problems as well as progress reports.
5.6.4 License notifications
Screenshot 73: License notifications.
Notifications are issued for licensing. These are colored blue, and help administrators keep track of licensing issues.
5.7 List all computers on a network
TheNetworksection lists every computer on GFI Cloud.Screenshot 74: The Network section can be accessed from the main menu on every page.
Screenshot 75: The Network page displays every computer on GFI Cloud.
This provides access to a list of every computer on the network. These can bearranged as a grid or a list, andany computer's name can be clicked for more details.
Sorting lists of computers
Wherever computers are listed on GFI Cloud they can often be ordered by column.
Screenshot 76: Computers listed by name. The column headers can be used to reorder the list.
Click the column header or label to sort items. Click the same header to reverse the sort order.
Screenshot 77: When selected, the column adds an icon indicating the direction of sorting. The sort order can be toggled by clicking the name again.
A small icon appears once a column is selected. This indicates the direction of the sort mechanism.
5.8 Identify computers on the network with problems
There are two places to identify computers with issues:1. Dashboard— the dashboard is the first screen you see when you log in; it lists all out-standing notifications for computers across the network.
2. Network— the network lists every computer on GFI Cloud; it automatically highlights computers with issues.
5.8.1 The Dashboard lists all notifications
Screenshot 78: The Dashboard lists notifications.
TheDashboardis the first screen you see each time you log in. It can be accessed on the main menu from any screen. It conveniently lists outstanding notifications from all computers across your network.
Each computer name can be clicked for more information, and many of the notifications have associated actions that can be operated from the Dashboard screen.
Find out more about the Dashboard »
Screenshot 79: The Network screen listing all computers. Those requiring attention float to the top.
Computers are organized according to their status, indicated by color. Those with problems always float to the top.
Find out more about computer status »
5.9 View computers as a grid or list
On the Network screen you have the option of using the grid view or the list view.
Screenshot 80: You can toggle between grid view and list view.
5.9.1 Grid view
Screenshot 81: Computers displayed in the grid view.
The grid view provides a snapshot of each computer in a self-contained box that contains useful information, including the computer name, the number of notifications and the number of services enabled.
Each computer name can be clicked for more details.
5.9.2 List view
Screenshot 82: Computers displayed in the list view.
The list view contains similar information including the type of computer it is, the computer name, the number of notifications and an indication of the services enabled.
Sorting lists of computers
Wherever computers are listed on GFI Cloud they can often be ordered by column.
Screenshot 83: Computers listed by name. The column headers can be used to reorder the list.
Click the column header or label to sort items. Click the same header to reverse the sort order.
Screenshot 84: When selected, the column adds an icon indicating the direction of sorting. The sort order can be toggled by clicking the name again.
A small icon appears once a column is selected. This indicates the direction of the sort mechanism.
Computer type auto-detection
GFI Cloud automatically detects computer types. They are categorized as one of three: a server, desktop or laptop. Each is assigned a distinct icon.
Server
Desktop
Laptop
Note:Although the icons are constant, the colors change to indicate the computer's status.
Find out more about computer status »
5.10 Filter computers
5.10.1 Filter by group
Groups are created by you. Each computer can only belong to one group, and these can then be used to isolate computers.
ClickGroupsto trigger a list of the groups you have created to organize your computers.
Screenshot 86: Groups are a basic organizational element of GFI Cloud, but can be used to actively filter computers.
Select the group or groups you wish to focus on and clickOk. This will filter out all computers except those belonging to the selected groups.
When using group filters the button changes to reflect the number of groups selected.
5.10.2 Filter by status
Filter Description
All computers The default; lists every computer.
Not reported in Lists any computers that have failed to check in — includes both overdue servers and any computer that is listed as offline. Items in quarantine Computers with items held in quarantine by VIPRE Business. Failing checks Computers with Network Server Monitor checks that have failed.
Search and filter
The search function can work in conjunction with filters. If you first filter the list of computers, you can subsequently search through this filtered list to create a sub-list of computers that combine both the search term and the selected filters.
Similarly, you can search for computer names and then filter down these results using the filter menu.
5.11 Search for a specific computer
Search and filter
The search function can work in conjunction with filters. If you first filter the list of computers, you can subsequently search through this filtered list to create a sub-list of computers that combine both the search term and the selected filters.
Similarly, you can search for computer names and then filter down these results using the filter menu.
5.12 Actions you can perform on multiple computers
GFI Cloud includes the ability to perform actions on many computers at once. There are two important aspects:
1. Selecting computers of interest
2. Perform actions on selected computers
5.12.1 Selecting computers of interest
Bulk actions are performed on theNetworkscreen, which can be accessed from anywhere using the main menu.
This lists every computer with the GFI Cloud agent installed. Any combination of computers can be selected to perform actions.
Screenshot 90: The Network screen, listing every computer with the GFI Cloud agent installed. Computers selected for your action list are visually highlighted.
Select an irregular series of computers
To select an irregular series of individual computers, click each computer while holding the
Create a contiguous selection of computers
To create a contiguous selection — for example, the first to the ninth computer in sequence — click the first computer then, holding theShift key, select the last.
Screenshot 92: A contiguous selection of computers can be created using the Shift key.
Multiple select works in grid view and list view
Selecting multiple computers works in both the grid view and the list view.
Grid view
Screenshot 93: The Network section in grid view, displaying a single computer selected (highlighted with a blue border).
List view
Screenshot 95: The Network section in list view, displaying a single computer selected (highlighted with a colored background).
Screenshot 96: The Network section in grid view, displaying two computers selected (highlighted with a colored background). Find out more about the different ways of viewing computers in GFI Cloud »
5.12.2 Performing actions on selected computers
Screenshot 98: The change group dialog, providing a list of groups to choose from.
This prompts you to select an alternative group to add the computers to. Groups must be created inGroup settingsbefore they will appear on the list.
Find out more about managing groups »
Adding GFI Cloud services to multiple computers
As well as the above actions, you can add services to multiple computers simultaneously using the same approach.
Once you have selected the computers you wish to add services to, clickAdd servicesnear the top of the screen.
Screenshot 99: The Add services link, used to enable services.
This will display a dialog box prompting you to select the services to add to the computers. If all the computers selected already have one of the services enabled this option will be unavailable.
Screenshot 100: Adding services to multiple computers prompts you to select the services you wish to enable. ClickOKto confirm.
Performing actions on an individual computer
Actions can also be performed on each individual computer.
Find out more about actions performed on a computer »
5.13 View the details for each computer
Network > (Computer name)provides an overview of a computer and the services running on it.
Screenshot 101: Each computer's Overview screen provides a summary of the computer and the services enabled on it. It is made up of the following:
1. Navigation of sub sections, to access enabled services and computer settings; 2. A list of outstanding notifications, including service-related actions;
3. Summary information about the computer and any services enabled; 4. Computer actions.
Screenshot 102: The navigation menu available for each computer. It automatically reflects the services enabled for the computer. It has two functions:
1. Navigation— the menu provides access to the enabled services, such as VIPRE Busi-ness or Network Server Monitor.
2. Computer settings—access the basic settings for each computer.Find out more about Computer Settings »
5.13.2 Notifications
TheOverviewscreen lists notifications for the computer. These are a summary of all outstanding notifications for every service enabled on the computer.
Screenshot 103: A list of notifications for a single computer.
Each displays a brief description that can be clicked to provide more detail. Many of them have associated actions such as restarting the computer or acknowledging a notification.
View notifications for every computer on your network
TheDashboardlists notifications for every computer on your network. It is the first screen you see whenever you log in, and can always be accessed from the main menu.
5.13.3 Summary information for the computer
Screenshot 104: The summary information provided for every computer.
Each computer is summarized in a box on the right of the Overview screen. It provides the following details:
The name of the computer (this can be changed at any time); Date of last contact;
Date added to GFI Cloud; The operating system it uses;
The Group it belongs to (this can be changed at any time).
About groups in GFI Cloud
Computers can be organized using groups. The Default group is included as standard, and initially all computers are included within this group.
Find out more about group settings »
Summary information for services enabled
VIPRE Business
Screenshot 105: Summary information provided when VIPRE Business is enabled.
If VIPRE Business is enabled, it lists the following in a summary box: The policy used by the computer (this can be changed at any time); Version of the threats definition file in use;
Date and time of the last scan; The type of scan performed;
Status of Active Protection: Enabled or Disabled.
Network Server Monitor
Screenshot 106: Summary information provided when Network Server Monitor is enabled.
If Network Server Monitor is enabled, it lists the following in a summary box: Number of checks failing;
Number of checks passing;
Total number of checks running on the computer; Number of checks currently synchronizing;
Number of checks acknowledged.
Each total provided is a link that provides more detailed information on Network Server Monitor checks running on the computer.
5.13.4 Computer actions
Screenshot 107: The actions available when viewing the detail of a single computer.
There are a number of direct actions that can be performed on a computer. These are always accessible from the top of each screen.
Actions
Screenshot 108: Actions can be accessed when viewing the details of any computer.
There are a range of actions you can perform on individual computers. Find out more about the actions you can perform on computers »
Screenshot 110: Adding services from the computer's detail page prompts a dialog box.
This prompts an informative dialog box that highlights the services currently enabled on the computer as well as the option to add more.
Choose the service or services you wish and clickOK.
Find out more about licensing and adding services to computers »
TeamViewer
Screenshot 111: A link to start TeamViewer is available; this will automatically connect to the computer if TeamViewer is installed on both computers.
If TeamViewer is installed it can be used to connect to the computer. Find out more about using TeamViewer in GFI Cloud »
5.14 Actions you can perform on a computer
There are a number of direct actions that can be performed on a computer atNetwork > (Computer Name) > Actions.
This provides a popup screen with a number of options. These vary depending on the services enabled and running.
Screenshot 113: The actions that can be run on each computer.
Important:Actions do not require confirmation. Clicking them immediately initiates the action associated with each button.
5.14.1 General actions – Remote reboot
Screenshot 114: Any computer can be restarted remotely from the GFI Cloud management console. ClickRemote rebootto restart the computer.
A reboot can take a few minutes to complete
The process takes a few minutes to complete. Within five minutes the computer will check in and receive the instruction to restart. This prompts Windows to inform the computer user of the impending reboot using a dialog box. A further dialog is presented at the two minute mark to urge the user to save their work.
5.14.2 General actions – connect using TeamViewer
Screenshot 115: If TeamViewer is installed on the computer there is an option to connect to it.
TeamViewer is integrated into GFI Cloud. You can use it to connect to any computer with TeamViewer installed.
5.14.3 VIPRE Business actions
Screenshot 116: There are a number of actions related to VIPRE Business that can be triggered from the management console. If VIPRE Business is installed there are options presented related to the service.
Status Description
Update now Prompts the computer to fetch the latest threat definitions from GFI Labs. This option is only available if the definitions are out of date.
Run a Quick Scan Prompts the computer to initiate a Quick Scan; this only scans the areas of the computer most at risk.
Run a Deep Scan Prompts the computer to run a Deep Scan; this scans the entire computer.
Reassign Policy Computers with VIPRE Business enabled are assigned a policy based upon the type of computer they are; for example, a server. This can be reassigned at any time. Clicking this prompts a dialog listing the available policies; any one can be assigned.
Disable VIPRE Business Deactivates VIPRE Business on the computer; this can be useful if antivirus needs to be temporarily suspended (VIPRE Business will automatically be enabled once the computer is restarted; this does not permanently disable the service).
This prompts the computer to immediately run all checks currently set up on the computer regardless of their default run time.
5.15 Using TeamViewer to connect to a computer
5.15.1 About TeamViewer
TeamViewer is an intuitive, fast and secure application for remote control of servers and workstations.
It is fully integrated into GFI Cloud and requires little or no configuration to make use of it.
5.15.2 How it works
TeamViewer can be accessed when viewing the details of any computer on your network.
Important:TeamViewer must be installed and running onboththe target computer and the computer being used to access GFI Cloud.
The version of TeamViewer supported is version 7.0.15723 or better.
Screenshot 118: TeamViewer can be accessed when viewing the details of any computer on your network. ClickTeamViewer.
Screenshot 119: GFI Cloud will prompt you to download the connection file. If you clickOpenit will automatically start TeamViewer and connect to the remote computer.
This will download a TVC file that contains the connection information needed to access the remote computer. The browser will prompt you to open the file. If TeamViewer is installed on your computer it will automatically open and manage the connection to the remote
Screenshot 120: You can access the target computer via TeamViewer when it successfully connects, providing full access.
Once successfully connected, you will be able to access the target computer to analyze and fix any problems highlighted by GFI Cloud.
5.15.3 Troubleshooting TeamViewer
If GFI Cloud cannot connect to the computer an informative dialog box will appear when you click the TeamViewer button.
TeamViewer is currently integrating, please try again shortly
TeamViewer is in the process of intergrating with GFI Cloud. This process normally takes about 10 minutes.
TeamViewer failed to integrate
TeamViewer is installed on the remote computer but has failed to integrate with GFI Cloud. This could be caused by an unrelated phenomenon, such as a network outage. GFI Cloud will continue to try to integrate with TeamViewer. Please check again after 10 minutes.
Please update TeamViewer to enable integration with GFI Cloud
The version of TeamViewer detected on the remote computer is out of date. Please update to the latest version:Download TeamViewer.
The GFI Cloud agent will auto-update to enable integration with TeamViewer
The GFI Cloud agent on the target computer is updating to the latest version. Please try again shortly.
TeamViewer is not configured correctly to integrate with GFI Cloud
TeamViewer on the remote computer must be set to run as a service for it to work with GFI Cloud.
Screenshot 122: TeamViewer's options can be accessed from the Extras menu.
Screenshot 123: The options available within TeamViewer. "Start TeamViewer with Windows" ensures the computer can always be accessed via GFI Cloud.
SelectStart TeamViewer with Windowsand clickOK.
This will ensure TeamViewer runs as a Windows service automatically when the computer starts up.
TeamViewer is not installed
Screenshot 124: If TeamViewer is not installed, clicking the button to activate it will prompt you to download the software and install it on the remote computer you wish to access.
If TeamViewer is not installed on the target computer GFI Cloud will prompt you to download and install it.
TeamViewer integration is disabled
TeamViewer integration with GFI Cloud has been suspended. This does not indicate a problem with the remote computer or the computer you are using to access GFI Cloud.
