RIM eases management with BES Express update

RIM has released the latest version of its free BlackBerry Enterprise Server (BES) Express software, which allows the smartphone to synchronise wirelessly with Microsoft Exchange and Windows Small Business Server.

BES Express allows connection for up to 75 handsets, and companies have the option to synchronise up to 2,000 devices on a separate server, RIM said.

The software uses the same security architecture as BlackBerry Enterprise Server, meaning that customers do not have to compromise on security, according to the firm.

The update also includes many of the features that come bundled with the latest 5.0.2 version of BlackBerry Enterprise Server.

Administrators are able to carry out 75 IT policies, an increase of 40 operational commands over BES Express 5.0.1, and can control exactly which applications are permitted on a device, as well as imposing a lock-down and remotely wiping data from a lost or stolen handset.

Other features include a single sign-on option which allows administrators and end users to log in to BlackBerry Web Desktop Manager and BlackBerry Administration Service without the need to re-enter details once they have signed in to the network.

An employee self-service tool, meanwhile, allows users to lock their BlackBerry, delete all data, or disable the smartphone in the event that it is lost or stolen.

The features included in the latest BES Express upgrade mirror a number of those included in the last BES update, highlighting the importance of BES Express to RIM, according to Pete Cunningham, senior analyst at Canalys.