Using XTreme Hubs

Speed up the distribution of files and packages to your Android Plus and Windows CE/Mobile/Modern devices with XTreme Hubs.

This section contains the following topics:

In traditional SOTI MobiControl systems, SOTI MobiControl deployment servers distribute files and packages directly to devices. However, many devices contacting the server simultaneously or connecting over slow networks can impact performance.

The XTreme Hubs file transfer service significantly improves performance. Other devices assume file distribution tasks so the deployment server can focus on separate responsibilities.

Traditional file distribution

The deployment server sends all packages and files managed by file sync policies in a SOTI MobiControl instance to an XTreme Hub device. The XTreme Hub device relays those files to devices, drastically reducing the file transfers the deployment server performs for each device and the load on the deployment server. The deployment server regularly sends each device a list of the packages and files it needs to download from the XTreme Hub.

File distribution with XTreme Hubs

Set-up is easy. XTreme Hubs are Windows desktop computers enrolled with a Windows Desktop Classic agent. SOTI MobiControl supports multiple XTreme Hubs to load balance file distribution.

Note: You can manage Windows XTreme Hub devices like standard Windows Desktop Classic devices. However, always consider the effect of changes on their connected devices. For example, disabling or unenrolling a Windows XTreme Hub device may cause associated devices to request files from another XTreme Hub or the deployment server.
XTreme Hubs supports two types of file delivery:
  • packages via profiles
  • files generated by file sync policies
Note: File transfers are one-way. Files uploaded to the deployment server from devices bypass the XTreme Hub device.

At each device check-in, devices poll the XTreme Hub for new or changed packages and files.

XTreme Hubs check the deployment server for new or updated packages and files according to:
  • Update schedules configured on their device group branch
  • File sync policies
  • Profile deployments with a package

Android Plus devices (device agent 14.1.7 or later) and Windows Mobile/CE devices (SOTI MobiControl 15.2.2 or later) support XTreme Hubs file transfer. Other device types in the same device group receive files directly from the deployment server.

Learn how to arrange XTreme Hubs at Arranging XTreme Hubs.

Note: The XTreme Hub file transfer feature is only available to customers with Premium Plus Service or Enterprise Plus Service support. Customers with Standard support cannot enroll devices as Windows XTreme Hub devices or reroute file transfers through XTreme Hubs to Android Plus and Windows Mobile/CE devices.
Important: Your existing Windows XTreme Hub devices lose their file transfer functionality if:
  • You set up XTreme Hubs while you had Premium or Enterprise-level support, and your support contract has ended.
  • You set up XTreme Hubs using a trial version of SOTI MobiControl, and your trial expired.
You can continue to manage Windows XTreme Hub devices with the same features as Windows Desktop Classic devices.
Tip: Check a device's Device Information panel for status and progress messages about file transfers from XTreme Hub. An XTreme Hub card is also available on the Device Details tab for Windows XTreme Hub devices.