Eval Guide Introduction

Start with one device and one result

This guide helps you learn FileWave by managing an approved test device and proving a useful outcome. You do not need to configure every platform or feature before you begin.

Your first goal is to connect to your FileWave Server, enroll one device, inspect its information, and deliver one appropriate test item. You will learn why creating content, choosing its targets, updating the model, and confirming the device result are separate steps.

Start with How FileWave turns your changes into device work. It introduces the Server, Central and Anywhere, Filesets, Deployments, and Model Update before the exercises use those terms.

Choose your Server path

Use a Central version that matches the Server you are evaluating. In Central Preferences, configure only the settings and platform integrations needed for your chosen route.

Choose one device platform

Follow the preparation and enrollment pages for the device you want to test. The other platform paths can wait.

For Apple TV or Apple Vision Pro, use the applicable Apple enrollment path and confirm the supported content and management capabilities for that platform; do not assume every iPhone/iPad exercise applies unchanged.

Know when you have succeeded

1. Identify the intended test device in FileWave and confirm its expected management connection and recent information. A device record alone is not proof that every management method is ready.
2. Inspect a few basic fields before changing the device. Inventory Reports explains how to select and read device data.
3. Follow Fileset Creation and Deployment for a small, platform-appropriate delivery exercise. Review the targets, commit pending model changes when required, and verify both the reported result and the actual device outcome.
4. Record what worked, what remains untested, and any help you needed. Use a validated cleanup procedure for the chosen content rather than assuming that deleting an assignment reverses every change.

Keep the first test contained. Use a spare or explicitly approved device with no irreplaceable data. Do not start with a wipe, image restore, restrictive network profile, global tracking change, or broad production group. In a shared environment, coordinate Model Updates with other administrators because their pending changes can be committed too.

Add optional capabilities when they serve your evaluation

Boosters can help deliver content locally for applicable Client workflows. Using a hosted Server does not require them. Windows imaging with IVS is a separate, optional part of the evaluation. It is not required for Windows Client enrollment. After your first successful test, you can evaluate directory-backed enrollment, advanced group design, OS-update pilots, and location tracking.

Plan the rest of your evaluation and get help

Work with your dedicated FileWave Systems Engineer (SE) during your evaluation. Use this guide between scheduled calls or emails to review FileWave workflows and best practices. Our FileWave Foundry 100-level courses offer self-paced video training that corresponds to this guide.

Use the FileWave IT Checklist to explore features to evaluate. Also create a checklist of your organization's requirements so your team knows what a successful evaluation should demonstrate. If you share your checklist with your FileWave SE, they can help tailor the evaluation to your priorities and available time and resources.

Set aside regular time to test FileWave, even if it's only an hour or two every other day. Choose a time that fits around your usual work and when interruptions are less likely. Regular practice will help you become familiar with the interface and remember how to complete tasks.

During your evaluation, contact your assigned FileWave SE with any questions or problems, including help with this guide or advanced features it does not cover. Do not contact FileWave Technical Support directly. If your SE cannot resolve an issue, they will open a support case with FileWave Support on your behalf. FileWave Community Edition users should ask for advice on the FileWave Discord Server.

Thanks again for choosing to evaluate FileWave, and please do not hesitate to reach out!

FileWave Systems Engineers

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