Abstract: A push-based communication channel can be established and dedicated to time-sensitive tasks in the system management space for client management. Managed clients can establish and maintain communication with a server including system management software over the channel. Subsequently, the server can send messages regarding time-sensitive/urgent tasks over the channel. In response to a message, a client can execute an action as a function of the message. In accordance with one embodiment, the client contacts the server over a pull-based communication channel to acquire a task for execution.