It is the bane of many small and medium business IT departments, user passwords. They have evolved to become so long and complex that regularly users forget what they are and need to call for help. In response, ManageEngine has developed a simpler way for companies to manage user passwords.The company announced a new version of ManageEngineADSelfService Plus, a web-based self-service password reset portal. The system allows end users to reset their passwords, unlock their accounts, and update their directory information online. The new version includes reports outlining the status of user licenses, flagging unused or terminated accounts, and identifying instances where individuals opened those accounts. A new Group Policy Object (GPO) enables administrators to simultaneously deploy these capabilities to multiple computers. Pricing for the service ranges from $1.19 to $2.59 per user.

ManageEngine has carved out viable niche by offering businesses effective but inexpensive network management products. The company understands the challenges that password management presents to small and medium businesses. Automated password management systems have been available for several years and are a tool that businesses  especially those with customer facing Web sites  should examine.