What is this intel Vpro option?

I am purchasing a dell m4400 and want to know what is the "intel vpro" option. After a little googling and searching these forums I understand it allows an IT dept to troubleshoot problems remotely.

Now I dont have an IT dept (with the exception of myself) so does anyone know if this option would allow a dell take control (from there side) and fix any software problem I may have?

 

it lets you boot and update the machine over the LAN, even if its off. You need a managemnet system like Altiris to use it, really.

As I understand it getting vPro enabled at ship is a special order, so if you are buying it as a one-off it will be disabled anyways.

 

Dell uses software called DellConnect to allow them (with your permission during a support chat or call of course ) to connect to your system and try troubleshooting steps remotely. This doesn't require vPro and is available for all Dell systems. In short, don't worry about ordering a system with vPro.

 

http://www.intel.com/technology/vpro/index.htm

A less technical explanation of Intel's vPro technology.

 

my office laptop [e6400] has vpro
my personal laptop has no vpro since it was the 1st batches of e6400

bottom line: if you're office has a TECH dept and you'll be needing them to maintain your laptop, then vpro is essential since the tech guy need not be physically with you or with your laptop to diagnose, patch, update and maintain your machine