Are you managing a vast network of computers with Symantec’s Altiris inventory system? Need a quick way to filter and organize computers by specific name patterns, like those starting from altiris inventory list all computers starting with pln- to pks-? You’re not alone! The Altiris inventory system can be a lifesaver for IT admins juggling hundreds (or thousands) of devices, but it can be tricky to navigate if you’re not entirely sure where to start.
In this guide, we’re diving into the essentials of Altiris inventory—specifically, how to list all computers starting with “PLN-” to “PKS-“. With clear steps, practical examples, and troubleshooting tips, we’ll have you mastering the art of Altiris inventory queries in no time. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned pro, there’s something here for everyone. So, let’s jump in!
What Is altiris inventory list all computers starting with pln- to pks-?
Altiris is a powerful IT asset management tool, part of Symantec’s suite for systems management. It’s designed to help organizations manage and maintain a large number of devices, from desktops and laptops to servers and mobile devices. The Altiris inventory system is particularly valued for its ability to:
- Automate inventory management: Track software, hardware, and other assets without manually updating records.
- Run detailed reports: Generate custom reports based on specific criteria, such as device name or IP range.
- Streamline asset tracking: Simplify asset lifecycle management, ensuring each device is tracked from deployment to retirement.
Why List Computers by Prefix?
In many organizations, computers are named according to a specific convention. For example, names starting with “PLN-” might represent devices in a particular location or department, while “PKS-” might represent devices allocated to specific teams or regions. By filtering computers by these prefixes, IT teams can easily:
- Identify and manage devices based on location or purpose.
- Run maintenance tasks on a specific subset of computers.
- Quickly check inventory status for department-specific assets.
Now that we know why it’s handy, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to do it.
Getting Started: Accessing Altiris Inventory
To list computers based on name prefixes like PLN- or PKS-, you’ll first need access to the Altiris Console. Here’s how you can get started:
- Log into the Altiris Console: You’ll need administrator privileges for most inventory tasks.
- Navigate to Resource Manager: This is your go-to area for managing and viewing asset information.
- Locate the Filter or Query Tool: This is where you can create custom queries based on various parameters, like computer name, IP address, or status.
Once you’re in, it’s time to set up your search!
Step-By-Step: How to altiris inventory list all computers starting with pln- to pks-
The following steps guide you on how to pull up a list of computers with names starting from PLN- to PKS- in Altiris. Here’s how to make it happen:
1. Open the Query Editor
To start, open the Altiris Query Editor in the Resource Manager. This is where you can create detailed queries to filter your inventory.
2. Set Up the Naming Condition
In the Query Editor:
- Select the Computer Name field from the dropdown list.
- Choose “begins with” as your operator.
- Enter the range from PLN- to PKS-. Altiris doesn’t support ranges the way Excel does, so you might need to use multiple conditions.
3. Filter by Multiple Prefixes
Here’s where it gets interesting! Since Altiris requires separate conditions for each prefix, set up conditions for each prefix between PLN- and PKS- (like “PLN-“, “PMT-“, “PQR-“, etc.), using “OR” to combine them.
Example Query Structure
In Altiris, your query might look like this:
- Computer Name begins with PLN-
- OR Computer Name begins with PMT-
- OR Computer Name begins with PKS-
Quick Tip: You can add as many OR conditions as needed if you’re working with a broader range. Just be careful not to create too many, as it could slow down the query!
Troubleshooting Common Issues altiris inventory list all computers starting with pln- to pks-
Even the best-laid plans can hit a snag. Here’s how to troubleshoot some common issues with Altiris inventory filtering:
- Query Taking Too Long?
If your query takes forever to load, try narrowing down the range. Listing every possible prefix can be resource-intensive. - Getting Incorrect Results?
Double-check your conditions. Make sure every prefix is correctly specified and that you’re using “begins with” instead of “contains”. - Permissions Error?
Some functions in Altiris are restricted to specific roles. If you can’t access the Query Editor, check with your admin to ensure you have the correct permissions.
Extra Tips for Working with Altiris Inventory
Want to become an Altiris power user? Here are a few advanced tips to make your experience even smoother:
- Save Queries for Future Use
Instead of setting up the same filters each time, save your commonly used queries. This feature is a time-saver when you need to repeat tasks frequently. - Export Data to Excel
If you want to analyze data outside Altiris, export the results to an Excel sheet. This makes it easy to sort, filter, and customize reports. - Use Scheduled Reports
Set up scheduled reports to automatically run and deliver a list of computers with the specified prefixes. This way, you’ll always have up-to-date information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) altiris inventory list all computers starting with pln- to pks-
1. What if I need to list computers with completely different prefixes?
In Altiris, you can create a query for each prefix group you need and save them separately. It’s possible to set up multiple saved queries and run them as needed.
2. Can I list computers by other criteria, like IP address or department?
Absolutely! Altiris allows you to filter by a range of attributes, including IP address, department, operating system, and more. Just select the desired field in the Query Editor.
3. Why does Altiris sometimes fail to return results even with the correct query?
This could be due to network or database lag. Check your network connection, and if the issue persists, consider consulting your Altiris administrator.
4. How can I share my query results with my team?
After running a query, export the list to a CSV or Excel file and share it via email or a shared drive. Alternatively, you could schedule the report to automatically send results to team members.
5. Are there any keyboard shortcuts to speed things up in Altiris?
While Altiris doesn’t have a ton of shortcuts, it does support some basic navigation. Check the user manual or ask your admin if any custom shortcuts are set up in your system.
Conclusion altiris inventory list all computers starting with pln- to pks-
Altiris inventory management can be a powerful ally when it comes to keeping track of your organization’s IT assets. Whether you’re listing computers by name prefix or managing department-specific devices, a few targeted queries can save you hours of manual effort. Remember, the key to success is creating a clear, manageable query structure and, when possible, saving and automating your processes.
