Best RMM Tools: The Key to Improving IT Operations and Business Efficiency

The break/fix paradigm has been used by IT teams to handle problems as they arise since the beginning. When hardware or software broke down or malfunctioned, professionals had to come on-site to determine what went wrong and then fix it, which may take a long time. In addition to lacking contracts or subscriptions that would have guaranteed professionals a consistent revenue, the break/fix model did not offer clients ongoing technical assistance. Both service providers and end customers lost out when anything broke and needed to be fixed.

After the introduction of RMM software, professionals could now actively monitor and manage IT assets from a whole new location. Technicians might work proactively to address issues that develop rather than only provide reactive services. RMM software provides personnel with the knowledge and resources they need to do preventive maintenance on the IT assets belonging to their users.

In this article, you will find detailed information on the following topics related to RMM software.

• What are the essential features of RMM tools?
• What are the Critical Factors to Evaluate when selecting RMM Tools for Your Business?
• What are the Popular RMM Tools in the Market?
  1. NinjaRMM
  2. Atera
  3. SolarWinds RMM
  4. ConnectWise Automate
  5. Datto RMM
  6. ManageEngine RMM
  7. Pulseway
  8. SuperOps.ai
  9. N-able N-central
  10. GoTo Resolve
  11. Syncro
  12. Kaseya VSA

What are the Essential Features of RMM tools?

Effective RMM systems provide a wide range of functions that help you manage your networks more efficiently. RMM tools consist of the following features:

• Remote Access and Sharing of Screens: This enables technicians to instantly and remotely connect to Windows, Mac, and Unix-based systems without the need for human input. Quick remote access for engineers via devices offers faster response times and makes life easier for end users who are not technically savvy.
• Patch Control: This may be used to deploy patches automatically based on policy settings. Do you want critical updates and service packs installed each Friday, even on newly connected network devices? Once the policy is established, it will have an impact on the whole network. Don't rely on luck and good installation luck. A decent RMM application will automatically contact your helpdesk to submit a support request and alert them to any issues that need to be handled.
• Security Layers: With the significant growth in cybersecurity threats, we need a growing toolbox to properly resist cyberattacks. An RMM solution must include endpoint detection and response (EDR), which offers a higher degree of security than conventional antivirus software. Moreover, it must have the capacity to combine features like DNS filtering, mail protection, and password management services. of course, a trustworthy backup feature.
• Remotely Installed Software: To install software, you don't have to stay connected to every device all the time. You may quickly set up a script and covertly distribute software to one or a thousand devices with the aid of an RMM platform.
• Hardware Error: Do not wait until your next onsite visit to find out that a server hard drive or UPS battery has to be changed. These issues should be quickly remedied before they cause you major problems. The RMM agent will continually check the health of any network-attached equipment, looking for issues and promptly alerting your engineers. In addition, a few RMM systems offer IT automation within the RMM, enabling scripts to be triggered in response to alarms to handle your most frequent issues without the need for human involvement.
• Scheduled Unattended Reboots: Set up a server or desktop reboot during business hours and have it happen automatically the next day. To set up a scheduled job or even manually reboot the device during business hours, you no longer need to connect to it. Say goodbye to staying up late to complete little tasks like this by configuring an unattended reboot from the RMM portal with only a few clicks.
• Auditing of Hardware and Software: Auditing software and hardware might be a hassle, but if you install an RMM agent to every device on your network, it will have already gathered the server and workstation components and serial numbers for you. Want to know which gadgets are all listed or find out which ones are still protected by warranties? Running an auditing report will allow you to quickly get all of this information and more. It's critical to keep in mind that when looking for or assessing potential solutions, you must make sure the RMM can manage both Windows and Mac devices. Several service providers have typically neglected Apple in favor of focusing their expertise on servicing Windows-based hardware. Nevertheless, this is no longer an option as more and more Apple devices are being used on consumer networks. If these devices aren't addressed, they might pose a serious network danger. A solid RMM platform will provide you with the same management tools for both Windows and Mac, making it simple for professionals to adapt their skills to what is frequently a new environment for them.

What are the Popular RMM Tools in the Market?

We will examine the top remote monitoring and management (RMM) tools for MSPs to use while managing the networks of their customers. These systems include a variety of features, such as secure remote access, detailed report production, automatic software upgrading, patch management, and configurable alerts. We'll offer you some history on the supplier, the essential components of each solution, and the kinds of clients it is most suited for.

1. Ninja RMM

RMM, system backups, and IT support operations are the core competencies of NinjaOne (formerly NinjaRMM), a single IT operations solution. Their RMM solution enables MSPs to quickly manage all of these devices from any location and is compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux operating systems as well as virtual computers. Moreover, NinjaOne has integrated endpoint management capabilities that let IT administrators address risks without interfering with their clients' workflows.

To help IT administrators respond more quickly and minimize client downtime, NinjaOne offers out-of-the-box notifications and remote access through the main interface and the NinjaRMM app. The remediation and scripting procedures may be automated, and tickets, alarms, and devices can be automatically synchronized with the MSP's current PSA. Administrators receive real-time information on the team's performance and health through customizable alerts and reports. Administrators may fine-tune patching choices from the management dashboard to update both the operating system and third-party apps.

To keep the network secure, NinjaOne comes with robust antivirus integrations, built-in endpoint security, and integrated cloud backup for all of the MSPs' clients. Last but not least, NinjaOne provides free and limitless training, onboarding, and support so that users may get assistance anytime they need it without having to pay more. For small- to mid-market MSPs with smaller IT staff that might require additional help, this makes it a perfect alternative.

Figure 1. Ninja RMM

2. Atera

Atera is an RMM provider with a focus on remote management initially. RMM, PSA, remote access, and reporting are all included in Atera's self-titled solution's user-friendly platform. It effectively enables MSPs in 75 countries to streamline and automate their management procedures so that they can respond to support issues proactively rather than reactively. Linux, SNMP devices, Windows, macOS, and other operating systems are all compatible with it.

Atera keeps an eye on client systems in real time and sends IT administrators information about any issues in advance so that they may be fixed. The majority of administrative and maintenance chores, including system scans, update checks, and system reboots, are quick and simple to automate. Administrators may apply changes to specific devices and device groups while automating patch management at a granular level from the management panel. The console has remote maintenance features, such as script execution and the ability to install and remove applications. Atera has extensive activity recording features that record each action taken by every user, giving MSPs total visibility into their IT infrastructure.

The MSP can safely access distant PCs and solve issues from anywhere, at any time, thanks to Atera's RMM solution, which connects with Splashtop to provide ongoing remote assistance for all of the MSP's clients. For businesses of any size seeking to provide fully remote assistance to their clients, we suggest Atera as a dependable RMM solution.

Figure 2. Atera

3. SolarWinds RMM

For IT teams, SolarWinds RMM delivers the ultimate win-win-win scenario. Get the control and visibility you require to stay in charge of the situation. To save time and enhance productivity, automate repetitive operations. Moreover, give end users who work from home or other remote workplaces prompt, effective assistance.

More than ever, IT departments are under pressure. Due to BYOD, a remote workforce, and developing technologies, networks are now more complicated, which increases the danger of security breaches. In response, several divergent point solutions are employed by various businesses to assist improve visibility, effectiveness, and productivity.

Because SolarWinds RMM can assist in bringing complicated networks under control with a single lightweight solution, why switch between several tools? RMM enables you to focus your day by monitoring hundreds (or thousands) of PCs, anticipating end users' demands, and receiving notifications. A complete array of best-in-class security services supplied as part of a single integrated platform help keep users secure and productive while saving time by automating mundane operations.

No matter where your end users are, you can access and repair workstations using the RMM platform's remote control feature. Even better, by using a remote command shell behind the scenes, you may fix issues without hindering the productivity of the end user.

You don't have to worry about expensive on-premises hardware or software upgrades thanks to their cloud-based SaaS approach. Using default options and a collection of automation scripts, ramp up rapidly. To ensure your success, free onboarding assistance, and round-the-clock support are offered.

Figure 3. SolarWinds RMM

4. ConnectWise Automate

Market leader in software for IT solution providers, ConnectWise (TSPs). Their adaptable services are made to expand alongside your company. The RMM solution from ConnectWise, formerly known as Labtech, enables businesses to give their clients more proactive assistance and system monitoring. Strong automation frees up the MSP's valuable time so they can focus on enhancing the client experience, and insightful technical data identify which technology is suitable for a certain situation and which isn't.

The asset discovery function of ConnectWise Automate enables administrators to swiftly manage and improve accountability by automatically detecting devices on client networks. While resolving IT issues, helps minimize downtime. For Windows and third-party software, the solution includes out-of-the-box, user-friendly patch management, and administrators can automate these roll-outs in addition to routine maintenance chores to save costs and save time. In addition, ConnectWise Automate offers robust monitoring and reporting features that serve as a single source of truth for technology status evaluations, agent and agentless device management, and remote control session audits.

Clients laud ConnectWise Automate for its user-friendly automation and scripting features as well as its thorough notifications. Administrators may connect with their clients at any time and from any place thanks to the remote session features. For small- to medium-sized MSPs seeking to install an RMM system, we advise ConnectWise Automate.

Figure 4. ConnectWise RMM

5. Datto RMM

Dedicated to providing cloud-based software and technology solutions to MSPs for their own usage and distribution to SMBs, Datto is a cybersecurity company. Their solutions are made to help MSPs overcome the complicated IT problems they confront while allowing them to expand their clientele and revenue. Its cloud-based RMM technology, Datto Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM), enables MSPs to remotely manage and support all of the endpoints that have been contracted to them. By offering centralized administration of a potent, scalable feature set, it seeks to lower MSP costs and boost the effectiveness of its service delivery.

Flexible patch management capabilities offered by Datto RMM include configurable, automatable policies that save admins time and protect customers from the most recent known risks. Administrators may directly or through Datto's connection with Chocolatey to automate patching for all Windows, Macintosh, and Linux devices as well as third-party apps. Moreover, Datto RMM has real-time monitoring and reporting capabilities that let administrators proactively address problems and make sure all security solutions are operating properly and effectively. Instantaneous problem-solving is made possible by auto-response to alarms, which makes troubleshooting easier by giving IT specialists access to vital diagnostic information. Administrators have access to both scheduled and on-demand data on the system health of their customers, enabling the MSP to take immediate action as necessary.

Datto RMM is extremely scalable and always available because it is entirely cloud-based. It is therefore ideal for any business that requires safe remote access to client computers. In order to make it simpler to get started, it completely interacts with already-existing PSAs, enabling one-click access between the two systems and supporting over 200 third-party applications and solutions. We advise Datto's RMM solutions to any MSP serving SMB clients who want to join a friendly MSP partner community since Datto is totally committed to helping their MSP community.

Figure 5. Datto RMM

6. ManageEngine RMM

Organizations streamline and integrate all of their IT operations, from device management to help desk software, with the aid of ManageEngine, a branch of Zoho Corporation, which develops complete IT management software solutions. Nine out of ten of the Top 100 firms trust their solutions. The ITIL-ready RMM solution for MSPs from ManageEngine is called ServiceDesk Plus MSP. ServiceDesk Plus MSP gives managed service providers across the world the ability to enhance and simplify their customer support services with integrated asset and project management capabilities and ITSM capabilities.

The incident and problem management tools provided by ServiceDesk Plus MSP enable admins to not only resolve network issues for their clients but also to categorize and analyze them in order to prevent recurring situations. All IT hardware and software assets, including vulnerability management and compliance assurance, may be found, tracked, and managed by administrators through the management console. A CMDB repository enables administrators to keep track of all configuration objects and graphically map their relationships to aid in decision-making and assess the effects of any system modifications. To provide admins with information on the functionality and health of their customers' systems, ServiceDesk Plus MSP creates both pre-made and bespoke reports. Lastly, the system includes a "service catalog" that enables the MSP to promote its services with unique SLAs for improved IT visibility and an improvement in end-user satisfaction.

Three variants of ServiceDesk Plus MSP are available: Standard, which provides the essential help desk software; Professional, which additionally includes IT asset management capabilities; and Enterprise, which also offers project and asset management features. ServiceDesk Plus MSP is a powerful RMM solution for MSPs with a worldwide clientele and/or a mostly remote workforce headquartered in several nations because it is accessible in 29 different languages.

Figure 6. ManageEngine RMM

7. Pulseway

With the help of the IT and asset management software platform Pulseway, MSPs may remotely manage the vital systems and IT environments of their customers. Administrators and IT specialists may access critical management features through their native Android and iOS mobile applications to handle problems remotely before the end user ever notices a problem.

The Pulseway solution is very mobile-friendly; administrators can access all major capabilities, such as mobile remote control and a thorough system overview, through the mobile app and can get immediate push alerts for quick troubleshooting. Moreover, Pulseway offers a potent automation engine that combines workflow technologies and an easy-to-use user interface to automatically resolve problems in place of the MSP's IT professionals. To reduce downtime, the engine has a variety of built-in scripts and templates. With the help of Pulseway's patch management, administrators may automatically patch the operating system and outside programs both as needed and in accordance with a preset timetable. Reports on which fixes have been applied to which systems are provided by the solution. Last but not least, the MSP's rapid, secure access to all of their clients' computers through the remote control and support capabilities enable experts to handle all IT issues remotely from a desktop or mobile app. This provides features for user chat, file transfer, and remote machine control.

Deploying Pulseway RMM is simple right out of the box without the need for training or onboarding. This is made feasible by the solution's central policy management and mass discovery and deployment capabilities. This makes Pulseway a powerful RMM solution for MSPs of any size that want to provide remote assistance and control of their clients' servers as quickly as feasible. This is in addition to the solution's mobile-friendly architecture.

Figure 7. Pulseway RMM

8. SuperOps.ai

The leading vendor of technology for MSPs is SuperOps.ai. With a single interface, their platform goes by the same name and integrates professional services automation (PSA) and remote monitoring and management (RMM) technologies to help MSPs manage their clients and assets more effectively. Customers gain from the platform's RMM and PSA capabilities as well as its tools for project management and IT documentation. With the help of a quiet script, SuperOps.ai is readily deployable and compatible with both Macintosh and Windows PCs.

Administrators examine a summary of asset data, including path status, antivirus status, firewall status, and net traffic, from the management console's main dashboard. In addition to managing each asset's software applications, administrators then go further into device memory and consumption. This includes installing and uninstalling software, adding and deleting files, and terminating app activity. With the ability to bulk accept and reject patches as well as construct custom displays to make lists of pending patches simpler to search, SuperOps.ai allows automated and on-demand patching. Via the platform's close interaction with Chocolatey, the license for which is included in a SuperOps.ai subscription, administrators can plan software upgrades and installations for Windows assets. Last but not least, SuperOps.ai uses machine learning to establish a baseline of "normal" behavior for each asset and provides intelligent alerts to inform administrators of any unexpected activity that might signal compromise for quicker repair. For these notifications, tickets can be generated automatically.

For remote help, SuperOps.ai connects with SplashTop, TeamViewer, and ConnectWise Control; for software management, it integrates with Chocolatey; and for antivirus, it integrates with Webroot and Bitdefender. Small- to mid-sized MSPs seeking a combined RMM and PSA product to lessen software sprawl and simplify client administration are encouraged to check out SuperOps.ai, in particular. Because of the platform's smooth interaction with Chocolatey, SuperOps.ai is very ideally suited to MSPs managing a large number of Windows assets.

Figure 8. SuperOps.ai RMM

9. N-able N-central

An expert in offering monitoring, security, and business technologies that help MSPs better service their customers and run their own companies, N-able is a cybersecurity firm. N-central, the company's main product, is an RMM platform created to enhance effectiveness and provide constant security, especially for businesses that are growing quickly. Virtual machines, as well as all Windows, Mac, and Linux devices, are all compatible with N-central. N-central clients profit from strong integrated endpoint detection and response (EDR) capabilities in addition to its fundamental RMM features.

With N-central, administrators can simply and swiftly onboard, configure, and patch hundreds of devices from a single interface, from any location, using strong automation capabilities. With the help of the network topology mapping tool, administrators may visualize their network and have any changes automatically detected for easy visibility while troubleshooting. Straightforward, adaptable reports let the MSP show their clients their worth providing them with information about the state of their networks. Moreover, the system includes a mobile app that enables administrators to locate problematic servers, analyze alarms, and offer IT management while on the move. To assist MSPs in protecting the data of their clients, N-central provides a variety of security features, such as a firewall, web filtering, and, should all else fail, backup and disaster recovery capabilities.

N-able recently enhanced the N-central system with strong EDR capabilities in addition to their basic RMM features. Even when endpoints are offline, clients can detect and respond to threats like ransomware thanks to policy-driven automation, forensic analysis, and AI engines. For any size business seeking integrated RMM and EDR, N-central is a fantastic RMM solution. Because of N-partnership able's with Microsoft, this service is especially well-liked by MS O365 users who already use Intune to keep an eye on their devices.

Figure 9. N-able N-central RMM

10. GoTo Resolve

GoTo Resolve doesn't monitor networks; it offers remote monitoring and management for endpoints and applications. The Administrator console and technician consoles do not need to be downloaded because the package may be accessed through the GoTo website. Each remote device you monitor with this package requires an agent to be installed in order to grant access.

Endpoints are remotely managed and monitored using GoTo Resolve. The system offers remote access capabilities that provide access to the desktop and the command line. A file transfer mechanism and remote execution capabilities are included in the program. For Windows, this system offers patch management.

Any device that has a Lite agent installed has its resources constantly monitored by the monitoring tool. Technicians may send files to these devices and run maintenance routines, giving the Professional agent far more capabilities. On these endpoints, applications can be installed.

Access to the command line is granted by the professional agent for research. There are two types of desktop access: attended and unsupervised. The owner of the computer receives a notice whenever a technician requests access to the device and has 60 seconds to approve or deny the request. The technician now has a remote control. The technician gains complete remote desktop access if there is no answer.

The Professional agents-running devices may be restarted and started up again. A Windows patch manager is part of the system.

Moreover, the system offers a workload automation solution that technicians may configure without writing any scripts. The service has the ability to schedule regular triggers for certain operations.

Figure 10. GoTo Resolve RMM

11. Syncro

A cloud platform of tools called Syncro is for managed service providers. This consists of an RMM package and a PSA module. The SaaS package has no restrictions on the number of locations or endpoints it will cover and is charged per technician. This implies that even the smallest MSP afford to use this support software to cover a large number of clients.

Because it incorporates professional services automation elements as well as tools for remote monitoring and administration, the Syncro system is a fantastic bundle for MSPs. This package includes a configurable ticketing system, remote monitoring tools, and automated asset management services. Moreover, the system has a patch manager.

The RMM system is better at maintaining Windows-based endpoints than any other operating system since it only has an automatic patch manager for Windows; it cannot update Linux, Unix, or macOS-based devices.

Networks, services, and endpoints are all covered by the monitoring services included in the package. Whenever a performance problem occurs, the monitor issues an alarm. Because a technician only needs to pay attention to the automated monitoring interface when a notice comes in, they may oversee many locations simultaneously.

The RMM package's automation capabilities let you create scripts for remediation. Another choice is to create a trouble ticket so that support specialists can be assigned inquiry work. It is feasible to simply configure notifications to be sent by SMS to particular staff members.

All sizes of managed service providers can use the Syncro system. Yet, because you can purchase all of the system's features at per-technician prices, startups, and all MSPs stand to gain the most from it. So, a sole freelance technician who is just getting started has access to all the software that a huge company uses.

Figure 11. Syncro RMM

12. Kaseya VSA

One RMM tool that can watch over a distant network is Kaseya. To track the performance of remote hardware, Kaseya VSA keeps track of performance parameters like uptime, CPU, memory, storage space, and more. Your network's devices are cataloged by network discovery so you can view them in the Discovered Devices view.

A fairly effective RMM that handles both on-premises and mobile device management is Kaseya VSA. This cloud bundle comes with a patch manager, and optional add-ons include backup services, security software, and system documentation.

You may handle IT service tickets using the tool's mobile app. With the mobile, you can efficiently handle performance problems while on the go and keep informed wherever you are, shortening the time it takes for a resolution.

The total monitoring experience may be tailored to the user's requirements. You can keep track of any change in your surroundings with the help of customized dashboards and reports. For instance, status reports inform you of the date the most recent audit was finished to help you keep informed of compliance-related issues.

Another important feature of Kaseya VSA is its patch management capabilities. You may schedule scans and automatically apply fixes to devices using automated software deployments. By establishing policy profiles to determine when patches are accepted and installed, you may manage the fixes that are finished.

Kaseya RMM is geared towards MSPs although it may be used by in-house IT teams. The Kaseya cloud platform, which also offers Kaseya BMS, provides other solutions that work well with the VSA service.

Figure 12. Kaseya VSA RMM

What are the Critical Factors to Evaluate when selecting RMM Tools for Your Business?

With the introduction of new technologies like AI and ML, the MSP sector has not only developed economically over time but has also advanced swiftly. But, the epidemic has fundamentally altered the playing field for enterprises all around the world. Remote workforce distribution makes the demand for high-quality RMM solutions urgent. Large companies with internal IT staff can also benefit from this.

Although RMM solutions are available at various price points and feature levels, not every tool will be the best fit for you.

Here are a few things you might want to take into account as an MSP looking to buy the finest RMM solution for your company:

• Simplicity of integration and onboarding: A solid RMM system must smoothly connect with your current tech stack. Starting out, the RMM tool has to be able to swiftly install agents onto all of the devices in your client's network and gather the necessary asset data.
• Network device surveillance: It is not sufficient to only monitor PCs and Macs when adopting RMM solutions for large MNCs with hundreds of endpoints; other hardware like printers, scanners, routers, and switches must also be monitored. These gadgets' data might identify security flaws and offer crucial insights. Attacks may originate from anywhere, therefore it's crucial to keep all of your auxiliary devices safe and up to date.
• Security management: Therefore, manually upgrading antivirus software with a checklist on local devices is no longer an option given that MSPs must remotely monitor devices. Nowadays, the ability to remotely apply security updates and install patches using RMM software is crucial for MSPs.
• Patch administration and updates: With the enormous number of endpoints that MSPs are responsible for managing, it is crucial to make sure that all the networked devices are continually updated with software patches. The array of software that these devices operate on has a number of faults and vulnerabilities that must be fixed by these fixes. Moreover, MSPs frequently employ patches (scripting) to stop faults brought on by computer memory and data storage. Hence it should come as no surprise that patch management is regarded as a crucial component of any RMM system.
• Simple scaling: Excellent RMM tools enable MSPs to scale gracefully and without difficulty. Scaling involves managing changes in device functionality over time in addition to just expanding the number of devices (or endpoints). Checklists and protocols are very helpful in ensuring that the monitoring quality is not compromised on a large scale.
• Capacities for automation: Keep in mind that you are purchasing an RMM solution to save time and money. Moreover, automation features significantly aid in the expansion of your MSP by enhancing IT Ops productivity while lowering human expenditures. Thus, check that your RMM product can automate the scheduling, management, and maintenance of patches, scripts, security alerts, software updates, and maintenance schedules. If the RMM system offers specialized automation features in addition to extensive script libraries that are ideal for your sector, there is an extra benefit.
• Integrating PSA: Last but not least, you would like your current PSA system to be tightly integrated with the RMM solution. Your operations (ticketing, project management, etc.) will be more efficient thanks to a combined PSA-RMM solution, and the quality of your service will be significantly improved because of faster team management and better resolution times. This would assist MSPs in producing more accurate reports and thorough dashboards. Several lines of communication between the technician and the client would be made possible by the PSA-RMM interface.