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What is RMM (Remote Management)?
Remote monitoring & management software helps managed it service providers monitor endpoints, computers, and networks remotely from any location within their environments quickly and effectively.
Our tools offer customized monitoring solutions tailored to any type or size of environment.
Remote monitoring, commonly referred to as RMON or remote monitoring, enables “Managed Service Providers” (MSPs) to remotely observe the network activities of clients' networks using probes or monitors connected remotely through examinations, providing efficient network infrastructure management and control for them.
What is RMM Used for?
Critical Capabilities of Rmm Software
RMM solutions offer an array of functionality, but in essence, IT pros use them to get three core jobs done:
- Real-time remote Monitoring and alerting: RMM solutions give IT professionals the ability to continually monitor the health and performance of both individual systems and entire networks, notifying them as needed. of potential issues before they become major ones, creating automated workflows to respond quickly to alerts that arise, and producing reports that give clear visibility into network activity, asset inventory compliance reporting, and the direct value of IT support services provided.
- Behind-the-scenes remote maintenance and remediation: RMM software enables technicians to deploy software, manage updates, and run scripts remotely while connecting remotely to machines to troubleshoot and solve issues without interrupting end users' experiences.
- Automating routine IT management: RMM software enables IT administrators to streamline workflows and automate various IT tasks ranging from installing patches, running scripts, creating tickets with predetermined policies and actions, and responding accordingly.
RMMs offer more than core capabilities; they're frequently employed to deploy and manage third-party endpoint security products and backup solutions.
So it should be no surprise that more than half of MSPs view RMM as their most critical application.
How Does RMM Work?
RMM works by installing agents onto endpoint devices - desktops, laptops, servers, tablets, smartphones, workstations, and Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices - that enable technicians and those using RMM software to gain real-time insight into how endpoints are performing, manage devices efficiently, deploy patches quickly, and automate repeatable tasks more effectively than before.
Evaluating RMM Software: Key Criteria
As with any software, evaluating RMM options depends on specific needs and priorities.
Most RMMs offer the same core features, but reliability and performance vary. While one tool may excel in some areas, it may lag in others. That's one of the reasons why taking advantage of free trials is so important to see for yourself whether an RMM's strengths match up with your top needs.
In addition to product features, RMM users factor in crucial things like ease of use, product stability, and customer support.
RMM Feature Requirements
- Monitoring and alerting: As well as monitoring workstations and servers, an ideal RMM should also monitor SNMP devices like routers, switches, firewalls, and printers. Cloud monitoring of application servers and websites, as well as real-time delivery, should also be supported; alerting should also be easy to set up with options to receive SMS and emails or create tickets in your ticketing system for notifications when alerts occur.
- Remote access tool: Speed and reliability are paramount considerations here, with most RMMs providing remote access through integration with third-party software like TeamViewer or Splashtop, and their performance can differ depending on which RMM it's connected with. Additional solutions include connect wise control (formerly screen connect) and connecting via cloud RDP services.
- Patch management tool: An RMM should provide automated patch management solutions for Windows and third-party apps, enabling admins and techs to easily schedule updates during off-hours without disrupting end users.
- Reporting: There should be multiple reliable reports you can quickly generate, from detailed patch compliance and asset inventory reports, network performance overviews, and high-level executive summaries.
- Scripting: Launching and scheduling scripts (with the proper permissions) is essential to enabling automation opportunities and boosting productivity.
- Integrations: RMMs must integrate seamlessly with products for backup, remote access, and endpoint security, as well as tools like Professional services automation (PSA) solutions and documentation software, for maximum functionality.
The Importance of RMM Customer Support
Customer support should always be considered when selecting RMM software.
Since RMMs act as central management portals, any downtime can be highly detrimental to operations if any downtime arises; Having access to knowledgeable support quickly resolves any issues and minimizes disruptions. Additionally, the ease of setup and ongoing administration varies considerably between RMMs, further emphasizing their value in providing exceptional service.
What Can RMM Do? RMM's Main Functions:
With the right RMM capabilities, you can stay on top of your IT needs. What to look for.
- Device Management
You can automate tasks on tens of thousands of computers easily and quickly, no matter where your IT team or end users are located.
This will ensure that the devices work correctly.
- Device deployment
Update multiple devices without disruption and hassles at once, install host software across multiple computers using MSI/PKG/APP install, or update multiple devices simultaneously with just a single command.
- Device Labeling
Tags are an efficient and fast way of quickly searching and filtering IT infrastructure by selecting devices, assigning tags, and allocating devices into administrative groups.
- Background File Manager
Fix issues and perform maintenance without disturbing users, securely moving files in the background while managing them safely.
Device Installations
By staying informed about your IT infrastructure, you can reduce the surprises your IT team will face.
- IT Alerting
Receive real-time alerts of critical system issues before they escalate into significant concerns.
Desktop alerting software provides this capability to identify and address potential problems before they grow larger.
- Device Quick view
What is your device's performance right now? Review real-time diagnostics such as CPU, memory, and network to establish whether an issue exists.
Then, resolve it without needing remote access to your PC.
Device Action
You can address a problem without causing inconvenience to the user once you are aware of it.
- Remote Execution
- Automate routine tasks on thousands of computers using PowerShell scripts to install/uninstall programs, push files to multiple servers simultaneously, and execute executable files or update the registry on several PCs simultaneously.
- Remote Terminal
To complete almost all administrative tasks quickly and effectively, a fully functional command prompt (PowerShell on Windows or Terminal on Mac) provides convenient access.
Take advantage of multitasking by performing several jobs at the same time.
- Patch Management
Patch management is essential to safeguarding security by identifying patches, approving them, and applying them across a device or multiple devices without interrupting end users.
Patches will remain protected without negatively affecting their functionality or uptime.
Device Security
Your IT infrastructure may be at risk if your devices are not secure. Set as many security tasks on autopilot as possible to give yourself peace of mind.
- Antivirus
- Push a button and deploy antivirus software onto all your devices to safeguard them against viruses, malware, ransomware, and sophisticated online threats.
- Antivirus management
- Manage and monitor your antivirus software easily using a straightforward dashboard. Request status updates, view threat lists, and initiate scans with a clear interface.
- Zero-Trust Access Control
- Keep malicious actors at bay by protecting your devices with access control systems, and safeguarding the supply chain with verified actions for every action you take - this way, zero trust exists between actors in each step of the supply chain and users. Read further below on zero trust!
The Future of RMM
RMM has transformed the IT industry. System administrators could only dream about such services 25-30 years ago; now, their dreams can come true with RMM services available via connect wise's MSP industry trends report for 2021! Check out more impressive statistics about RMM in connect wise's report on MSP trends 2021 here.
- Within three years, managed service providers who use fully integrated Professional Service Automation (PSA), Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) software should experience approximately 100% growth.
- Within 36 months, MSPs should adopt RMM platforms at an expected 94% adoption rate.
These statistics will give an idea of the likely development of the Managed Service Provider market over time, so MSPs can tailor their offering appropriately and meet client demands by investing in RMM software solutions.
- According to a wall street journal survey, 48% of executives polled plan on increasing spending on cloud services over the coming year.
- By 2022, global IT spending will reach $4.5 trillion.
- 52% of SMB owners believe they spend too little on IT and services for their SMBs.
- MSPs today enjoy an average client retention rate of 90%.
- By 2026, SMBs will spend 14% more than expected on managed IT services, compared to the 6% increase in total IT expenditure.
- Managed Services will generate over $90 million in additional spending between 2021 and 26.
As more businesses utilize MSP services and society becomes increasingly dependent on technology, remote monitoring and IT infrastructure management appear viable future possibilities.
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What are Remote Management Tools?
Remote management tools enable IT professionals and managed service providers to administer endpoints remotely.
This helps issues to be identified and corrected. At the same time, scheduled tasks can be automatized, which is essential for technical support teams and system administrators.
Formerly found only within data centers, remote management technology is now readily accessible by individuals; remote management tools provide remote administration for almost every device with internet connectivity.
Establishing your remote connection can be complex. Remote management tools simplify this process and create an effortless link to remote resources; all it requires is an account with username/password combination and authentication of access requests.
Remote management tools feature user-friendly applications for easy use. Creating a safe ecosystem makes monitoring, managing, and troubleshooting problems simple and stress-free.
Here is our top ten list of remote management tools.
Top 10 Remote Management Systems
1. Teamviewer Remote Management
Teamviewer offers a 14-day free trial of its centralized remote management and monitoring solution, Teamviewer remote management.
Compatible across platforms and fully customizable to each individual's requirements, Teamviewer remote management also boasts features like patch management, asset, and endpoint administration, network monitoring, backup services and endpoint protection, and other helpful functionality like patch protection management.
Teamviewer remote management's only real drawback is its price; individual users may enjoy access to a limited version, while businesses must purchase an expensive subscription license to use team viewer remote management effectively.
2. Logmein Central
LogmeIn central is an innovative cloud-hosted remote monitoring and control (RMC) tool offering users reliable remote management of IT infrastructure remotely via its user-friendly dashboard.
LogMeIn enables automating routine tasks, monitoring connected devices, and performing updates efficiently - it even works seamlessly on Windows OS X, OS X v10.6, Android, and iOS platforms! As our software resides in the cloud, users can take advantage of a 14-day free trial period and only pay for the services they use.
3. Webex Support
Webex support is an innovative real-time customer support and service platform for businesses and organizations.
It enables their employees to receive real-time assistance from remote desktop control (RDC), live chat, or video conferencing on all platforms. Users may access support using remote desktop control (RDC), live chat, or video conferencing - users may access RDC directly, live chat with agents supporting up to five clients simultaneously with service on various platforms by an agent.
The Cisco Collaboration Cloud delivers software on demand, eliminating physical installation requirements and providing secure, scalable services for optimal business solutions.
4. Anydesk
Anydesk is a powerful remote assistance tool designed to assist startups and large companies, whether their success depends on one operating system or many.
Anydesk provides effortless compatibility across operating systems. Its fast download time and automatic roll-out across multiple computers make for a highly user-friendly experience that means customers always arrive quickly, as support comes with fast connections and no lag between services provided.
5. Splashtop
Splashtop, an industry leader in remote support software on demand, provides secure remote support at great value for its clients and end-users worldwide.
Over 200,000 companies and 30,000,000 end users trust it worldwide - this includes government agencies, law enforcement organizations, and large banks. Splashtop allows you to select flexible subscription plans to only pay for services you utilize.
6. Connectwise Control
ConnectWise control (formerly ScreenConnect) is an industry-leading remote support solution.
It offers three solutions tailored specifically for each client type, from individuals to managed service providers (MSPs). Each offers world-class security right out of the box via role-based architecture for safety, customizability, and configurability, with hundreds of extensions and integrations available out of the box.
7. Atera RMM
Atera provides IT Professionals and managed service providers with an all-in-one remote monitoring solution via the cloud, with features designed to address IT professionals' and managed service providers' needs.
You can test its features free for 30 days before investing; Atera offers transparent price plans based on technicians that include unlimited workstations and servers in each program; plus comprehensive RMM functionality such as professional services automation patch management, remote support access third party integration analytics reporting.
8. Remote PC Helpdesk
Helpdesk from RemotePC provides high-performance web-based remote management tools with secure connections to any device without extra software installation.
Featuring industry-standard encryption (AES 256-bit and TLS 1.2), text or video chat functionality, multiple monitors/logs for monitoring purposes, and cross-platform accessibility - Helpdesk makes connecting any device seamless!
9. Beyondtrust Remote Support
Beyondtrust remote support is the ideal remote support solution for organizations and businesses requiring additional security features.
Users can manage user, role, and session permissions in great detail using this remote support tool, ensuring each individual can gain the appropriate level of access. Sessions activity logs allow audit trail analysis. Furthermore, BeyondTrust integrates seamlessly with CRM, ITSM, and SIEM tools while scaling to meet changing business needs seamlessly.
10. Ninjarmm
NinjaRMM, designed by industry specialists, is an advanced remote monitoring management Tool used by over 6000 users worldwide and was awarded #1 status across eight categories, such as ease of use, setup, and support.
NinjaRMM features IT automation, monitoring alerting multiplatform management endpoint protection robust patch management to offer users maximum value from this intuitive platform.
What Are the Main Benefits of RMM?
1. Reduces Downtime
Network downtime can be costly for businesses. Without access to data like emails from clients or software that allows you to complete tasks when your systems go offline, productivity takes a major hit, and bosses may feel guilty knowing their employees, building, and utilities bills have to continue being paid; customers won't get what they expected either!
RMM software can help to keep your systems in optimal condition. Monitoring servers regularly is necessary for problems to develop unnoticed.
RMM tools provide around-the-clock. Monitoring that detects issues that cause downtime on servers. Your business cannot afford the downtime losses caused by downtime; your customers could quickly lose trust in your services.
2. The Security of Your Own Home
Globalization and enterprise-targeted attacks pose two of the greatest threats to businesses today.
Cyber threats continue to emerge, and organizations should employ stringent security protocols to avoid breaches.
Care should always be taken when handling confidential client and company data to safeguard yourself as an entity and your customers' satisfaction.
Security risks have the power to harm both severely.
Remote monitoring software offers peace of mind by remotely tracking systems to detect threats before they impact client networks and files are lost or deleted accidentally.
RMM software includes various security measures to shield businesses against criminals trying to access confidential files for fraudulent activity.
3. Minimal Overhead Costs
Small and mid-sized businesses need effective overhead cost management to achieve success and foster growth.
Spending on IT infrastructure and personnel can be expensive; you will likely require hiring a team to monitor network operations while purchasing and installing cutting-edge tech. RMM software may help businesses avoid unnecessary expenditures; hiring an IT specialist on an hourly or fixed-price contract could lower operating expenses.
4. Maintenance
Remote monitoring and management tools will take the strain off regular system maintenance duties for you.
Staying current with security updates and maintaining good system health will increase profits for any business and ensure seamless service provisioning. Remote monitoring provides all technologies that can access their data instantly, offering peace of mind.
5. Scheduled Reboots Unattended
IT professionals often need help setting up desktop and server PCs during business hours or at night.
Yet, RMM makes this easier by automatically rebooting devices when scheduled tasks need completing or manually rebooting PCs during working hours. This portal feature makes scheduling tasks and reboots effortless! Use mouse clicks for unattended restarts using RMM!
RMM Services
What pricing model does RMM use? MSP clients might shudder when thinking of managed IT; hearing words such as server, network, and cybersecurity often causes their minds to go blank with fear that this service will cost a small fortune.
However, that assumption needn't hold! Most MSPs charge for RMM services on a monthly flat fee basis; package pricing typically considers how many devices and services the package comprises. Customers can select which services they'd like to pay for; on-site support might incur an extra cost. MSPs must determine whether their pricing structure will be "per device" or "per user." Each approach presents unique benefits and drawbacks.
MSPs looking to maximize their growth potential should consider the following:
- Partnering up with a provider that offers centralized leadership and supports their business through training, education, or expertise.
- Selecting a platform to support diverse environments, including hybrid cloud and fully virtualized infrastructures.
- Using remote monitoring management tools and connected tools through a single interface streamlines daily operations and eliminates the headaches of managing multiple dashboards.
- Automate what RMM handles, such as antivirus definition updates and patch management, so that you can focus on core business operations and growth.
- Find a solution backed up by a network operations center with a strong staff. By finding a partner who has a solid technical team and infrastructure, you can direct your best technicians to your most important projects.
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MSPs that implement these tips and tricks will likely experience a tremendous increase in business.
By leveraging the power of RMM, they can scale their business at any level.
Conclusion:
RMM solutions bring immense advantages to any business, sparing it from experiencing problems that could otherwise have arisen.
When installed as part of their monitoring strategy, RMM provides superior threat protection. At the same time, costs are kept under control, and productivity improves significantly.
Utilizing remote monitoring and management tools gives you more time to focus on running your business.
At the same time, professionals monitor whether all systems are functioning as expected.
