Parallel Deployment of RMM and DCA for Device Security
While the DCA is designed to primarily collect print data and consumables status, the RMM software will also "see" all the print devices as endpoints and can detect potential security threats, such as open ports, for which the DCA typically would not provide any alerts. This may be considered a benefit of parallel DCA and the RMM running.
Running both DCA and RMM software in parallel provides significant benefits, one key advantage being the enhanced security visibility offered by the RMM system. While the DCA is primarily designed to capture print data (such as page output, consumables status, and device health), the RMM can monitor print devices as network endpoints, offering insights and alerts on potential security threats that the DCA would not detect.
Benefits of Running DCA and RMM in Parallel:
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Comprehensive Endpoint Monitoring:
- DCA focuses on print-related metrics like usage, consumables, and device status but does not provide in-depth security monitoring.
- RMM, on the other hand, treats print devices as networked endpoints, which means it can monitor their connections, detect open ports, identify out-of-date firmware, and track network traffic for unusual patterns that could indicate security vulnerabilities.
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Security Threat Detection:
- The RMM system can scan for and alert administrators to threats such as open ports, unauthorized access attempts, or outdated security patches on print devices. Many modern networked printers are as vulnerable to cyberattacks as any other networked device, especially if they are not adequately secured.
- Since printers are often overlooked as potential entry points for cyber threats, having the RMM software monitor these endpoints significantly strengthens your security posture. The DCA would not typically detect this, as its primary function is not focused on security monitoring.
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Automated Patch Management:
- The RMM can automatically detect when print devices need firmware updates or security patches and push these updates remotely. Keeping printers up to date is crucial for preventing vulnerabilities attackers could exploit. DCA would not manage or monitor firmware this way, so RMM fills that gap.
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Unified Incident Response:
- With RMM monitoring the entire network, including print devices, any security incidents related to the printers can be handled alongside other endpoint incidents. This allows the IT team to respond to security threats in a unified and comprehensive manner, reducing the chance of a weak link in the security chain.
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Network Segmentation and Access Control:
- RMM also ensures that print devices are correctly segmented within the network. By detecting misconfigurations or abnormal access patterns, the RMM can help ensure that print devices are not unintentionally exposing sensitive data or providing a backdoor to other network parts.
Conclusion:
Running DCA and RMM in parallel offers both operational and security benefits. While the DCA provides detailed print data and helps manage consumables, the RMM adds a critical layer of security monitoring for these endpoints, detecting potential threats such as open ports or outdated firmware. This holistic approach improves the functionality and security of networked print devices, making the parallel deployment of these two systems a powerful strategy for managing dispersed IT environments.
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