Since our founding, the mission of LRS software has been to enable reliable document delivery from any application on any platform over any network in any format to any output destination. In early days, most of these documents originated on servers—think IBM mainframes, UNIX or Linux boxes, Windows machines, and other platforms—with a “heavy” footprint.
But what if the documents in question originate on numerous lightweight, “thin” endpoints with basic OS print functionality? That’s where LRS’ IGEL Session Printer Agent (ISPA) solution comes in.
IGEL Technology GmbH is a global provider of the IGEL OS operating system, which offers a secure, adaptive endpoint platform for the modern workspace. Instead of needing to acquire, deploy, and support countless modern Windows or other PC desktops, IGEL OS lets organizations leverage existing x86-based machines and/or thin clients from a multitude of vendors to provide a uniform, centrally managed end user desktop experience.
IGEL Endpoint Printing and LRS
By default, IGEL endpoints utilize the open source CUPS printing subsystem, the limitations of which have been outlined in detail here on this very Blog. In large environments with output originating on numerous applications and platforms—as well as a heterogeneous fleet of user endpoints—the need for a scalable central point for managing all enterprise output becomes apparent.
The ISPA solution from LRS provides intelligent management of user- and terminal-specific printer definitions to simplify print management in enterprises that use large numbers of IGEL endpoints. ISPA software from LRS ensures that a worker always has the ability to print to a nearby device, the printer back in his or her office, or any required location on the network.
From a management perspective, the integration between IGEL endpoints and LRS software enables printers to be intelligently mapped using IP Address range, Username, or terminal name from a single pane of glass and minimal configuration on the IGEL OS. Administrators can create sets of “rules” based on those criteria (IP Address, Username, Terminal name) and update them without the need to change anything on the IGEL endpoint.
ISPA on the IGEL App Portal
Since 2022, LRS has offered a certified interface between IGEL endpoints and the LRS output management solution. However, previous iterations of our software were integrated directly into the IGEL OS, meaning any fixes, updates, or changes to the LRS software required taking an entirely new version of the base OS, which could be a lengthy process.
With the latest IGEL OS 12 iteration, LRS and other third-party software can be delivered in app form via the IGEL App Portal, which de-couples these applications from the base IGEL OS. The result is easier integration of third-party apps and a shorter time between the moment an app is available and when the IGEL endpoint user can benefit from this improved functionality.
ISPA Benefits
In keeping with our mission to help customers “print from any source on any platform to any destination,” the ISPA solution from LRS makes virtual desktop printing more like traditional workstation printing. ISPA software improves the IGEL endpoint print experience, increasing overall productivity and reducing IT support calls. ISPA software eliminates the need to rely on native CUPS functions, giving IGEL-based enterprises access to LRS Enterprise Output Management functions including:
- Scalable direct IP and/or server-based output management
- Powerful print auditing and tracking functions
- Secure pull printing capabilities
- Versatile document scanning and imaging functions
- Browser-based content management capabilities
Looking for ways to simplify the management of printers and output in an environment with large numbers of IGEL OS endpoints? Contact Us to learn more about the IGEL Session Printer Agent (ISPA) solution from LRS.