The new version is a significant update that offers a number of important new features.
While PageSentry has always been able to provide robust monitoring of Web servers, PageSentry itself is now Web-enabled. This new built-in capability allows users to view the status of their servers or even make common configuration changes from any Web browser on the Internet.
The Web reporting capability can be customized using "Groups" so that individual users can access reports listing the status of only their own servers. Groups can also be used to trigger intelligent failure notification, so that multiple server failures trigger only a single alphanumeric page to a server administrator, for example.
PageSentryis already extensive list of server tests has been extended for version 3.0. POP and IMAP servers can now be tested directly, while a trio of new Sentry types allows administrators to verify virtually any type of server or application using AppleEvents, "Listener" tests, or by using a new helper application called "Process Watch". Process Watch, which is included with PageSentry, is run on any modern Macintosh and allows PageSentry to remotely monitor and restart any application running on that Mac.
Other significant new features include new mechanisms for handling server failures, including APC MasterSwitch, and an activity monitor for advanced problem diagnosis. Support for Sophisticated Circuits, Inc. Rebound! and Kick-Off! units ensures reliability of the PageSentry Macintosh itself. Finally, a new "Snooze" function lets users take PageSentry temporarily off-line and have it return to service automatically after a set time period.
PageSentry is available for US$249 in standard edition, and the professional version costs US$395. Maxum will be demonstrating PageSentry 3.0 along with its entire lineup of Internet products at MacWorld San Francisco in the MacTech Central pavilion.