ELTEX AutoProvision is a configuration management system for IP phones that helps to automate the process of configuration and updating of devices using a single interface. The system is a standalone component of the ECSS-10 PBX: it can be delivered as a part of the software PBX or as a separate solution.
The second generation of the system was presented this spring. It is based on a new engine and is devoid of the previous generation’s shortcomings. What advantages does the new generation of AutoProvision offer?
- Compared to the first generation, more vendors and models of IP phones are supported.
- The device support strategy has changed. In the previous generation version of the system, the developers aimed to ensure that all the functions of a particular IP phone model were fully supported. At the same time, most of the parameters were not demanded by users. Now only a part of the functions is available, and if they are needed, new ones can be added by the request of customers.
- The device firmware mechanism has been improved. For example, in the previous generation it was necessary to download firmware files separately and reboot the phone after updating each of them. In the new one it is enough to upload the firmware files in one archive. After the update is finished the phone will reboot itself.
- Added validation of entered parameter values. Now the system will not allow to enter invalid data and will help to avoid filling errors.
- Grouping of related parameters has been implemented. The usage of forms makes it possible to customize the functionality with the help of templates.
AutoProvision system is actively developing. The following functions are planned to be implemented:
- creation of fault-tolerant work at a large number of devices;
- pre-configuration of devices;
- device management (forced updating, restarting, etc.*);
- monitoring, adding device statuses ("configured", "registered", "updating", etc.*);
- more informative work with devices through the system (statuses of requested and sent files, viewing sent configurations in phone format, viewing and downloading other files sent to devices*).
