Technical Review by
Laura Iannini
Remote management tools, or remote monitoring and management (RMM) tools, are a type of software that enable managed service providers (MSPs) to more easily keep track of their clients’ networks without having to be on-site at the client’s premises. The most popular of these tools allow MSPs to manage desktops, laptops, servers, and smartphones remotely by installing agents on each endpoint, which send real-time data back to a central console.
With almost half of the world’s businesses relying on the Office 365 suite every day, it’s critical that any MSP has the ability to monitor that software for vulnerabilities and ensure that it’s running smoothly at all times. This includes monitoring for issues with mail flow, security compliance, license usage, and configuration drift.
However, no two remote management tools are the same, and one of the key differentiators that MSPs looking to manage a client’s Office 365 suite should look for is the integrations and patching capabilities that each tool has to offer for Office 365 and its suite of products.
Remote management tools let IT teams and managed service providers monitor, maintain, and troubleshoot Windows devices from a central console without needing physical access. They typically install a lightweight agent on each endpoint that reports device health, patch status, and performance data back to a dashboard. From that dashboard, technicians can push updates, run scripts, and connect to machines remotely.
RMM platforms deploy persistent agents across endpoint fleets to collect telemetry on hardware health, software inventory, patch compliance, and event logs. Most platforms offer policy-based automation, where conditional rules trigger scripts, patches, or alerts based on monitored thresholds. Patch management engines handle OS updates, Microsoft 365 application patches, and third-party software updates on configurable schedules with pre-deployment testing and rollback support. Multi-tenant architectures give MSPs isolated per-client views with role-based access, while RESTful APIs enable integration with PSA, ticketing, and SIEM platforms. Advanced platforms add AIOps for alert correlation, predictive issue detection, and autonomous remediation.
Here is a side-by-side comparison of the remote management tools reviewed in this article.
| Product | Best For | Type | Patch Automation | Remote Access | Scripting Engine | M365 Integration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
NinjaOne
|
Growing MSPs needing a single pane of glass
|
Cloud RMM
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
|
Atera
|
MSPs wanting per-technician pricing
|
Cloud RMM + PSA
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
|
ConnectWise RMM
|
MSPs in the ConnectWise ecosystem
|
Cloud RMM
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
|
Datto RMM
|
MSPs with heavy Microsoft 365 clients
|
Cloud RMM
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
|
LogicMonitor
|
Enterprises with hybrid infrastructure
|
Cloud Observability
|
Yes
|
No
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
|
ManageEngine RMM Central
|
Diverse device fleets including mobile
|
Cloud RMM
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
|
Microsoft 365 Lighthouse
|
CSP partners wanting zero-cost M365 visibility
|
Native M365 Admin
|
No
|
No
|
No
|
Yes
|
|
N-able N-sight RMM
|
MSPs wanting integrated security tools
|
Cloud RMM
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
|
Pulseway
|
Technicians who work remotely or travel
|
Cloud RMM
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
We assessed each platform across Office 365 integration depth, patch management capabilities, third-party application coverage, multi-tenant management, reporting and analytics, security features, deployment flexibility, pricing models, and real-world customer feedback. Products were evaluated on how effectively they help MSPs monitor, manage, and secure their clients’ Microsoft 365 environments alongside broader endpoint management. This article was researched and written by Caitlin Harris and technically reviewed by Laura Iannini. Read our full methodology
NinjaOne is a cloud-based IT operations platform built for MSPs managing diverse endpoint environments. It unifies remote monitoring, patching, backup, and device management in a single console with strong automation capabilities. We were impressed by the depth of visibility; the Overview dashboard uses a traffic light color-coded graph to highlight critical actions, with clickable device icons for device-level detail.
We think NinjaOne works best for growing MSPs who need a single pane of glass that junior techs can navigate alongside senior engineers. The per-device monthly pricing includes free unlimited onboarding support and training, and full deployment typically takes two weeks to a month. The multi-tenant interface gives MSPs per-client dashboards with drill-down visibility. Something to be aware of is that NinjaOne doesn’t offer software configuration management, and client-facing reports may need extra effort to polish for presentation.
Best for MSPs wanting per-technician pricing with unlimited endpoints
Atera is a cybersecurity provider that offers remote access, management, professional services automation (PSA), and reporting via one platform. It helps both IT teams and MSPs respond more quickly and efficiently to issues. We think the pricing model is the real differentiator here; you pay per technician rather than per device, so you pay the same whether you manage 50 endpoints or 5,000.
Customers highlight the add-on ecosystem as a strength; you can layer antivirus, backup, and security tools into one management view without juggling separate consoles. Setup is straightforward even for teams without deep IT experience. Users praise the platform’s clean interface and the ability to remotely update third-party apps, as well as Atera’s excellent customer support. Something to be aware of is that macOS clients are more difficult to manage, and client portal access requires additional licensing for customer self-service.
We think Atera fits MSPs and IT teams who want cost predictability while growing their client base. If your model depends on managing many endpoints per technician, the per-technician pricing works in your favor. Because of its tiered pricing and strong feature set, we would recommend Atera as a strong tool for any IT team or MSP looking to remotely manage a Microsoft Office 365 environment.
Best for MSPs already invested in the ConnectWise ecosystem
ConnectWise is a market-leading provider of software for technology solution providers (TSPs). ConnectWise RMM is their cloud-based monitoring platform, built on the Asio platform, which combines the power of their legacy RMM solution with an improved interface and a broader set of features. We think it fits MSPs already invested in the ConnectWise ecosystem who want tighter integration across PSA, ticketing, and documentation workflows.
Customers praise the real-time dashboards and visibility into system health. The browser-based access means no client installation needed for remote management. Something to be aware of is that some users flag the interface as clunky and difficult to navigate for newer users, and initial setup requires a significant time investment.
We think ConnectWise RMM fits MSPs already running ConnectWise tools who want unified workflows from monitoring through to billing. The ecosystem benefits outweigh the learning curve if you’re already in the ConnectWise world. We recommend it for small to mid-sized MSPs looking for lots of out-of-the-box functionality and an easy path to managing Office 365.
Best for MSPs whose clients rely heavily on Microsoft 365 and need active monitoring
Datto is a cybersecurity provider that produces cloud-based tech solutions and software for MSPs to distribute to small to mid-sized businesses. Now part of the Kaseya family following the 2022 acquisition, Datto RMM integrates tightly with the broader Datto and Kaseya ecosystem, including Autotask PSA, Datto Networking, and IT Glue. We think it fits MSPs whose clients rely heavily on Microsoft 365 and need active monitoring beyond basic endpoint management.
Customers highlight the interface improvements over time; navigation has become more user-friendly. Support responsiveness gets consistently positive marks. Integration with Autotask helps operations run smoothly for day-to-day tasks. The regularly updated script library and the ease of deploying third-party apps such as Office 365 are praised, along with the partner community. Something to be aware of is that reporting features require extra time to configure, and the feature depth can overwhelm new users during initial onboarding.
We think Datto RMM fits MSPs whose clients rely heavily on Microsoft 365 and need active monitoring beyond basic endpoint management. The CyberDrain O365 scripts are available in the ComStore at no extra charge, which is good to see. Cloud-based, with support for Windows, macOS, and Linux devices, Datto RMM is a flexible solution that we recommend for any MSP looking to remotely manage their clients’ Office 365 suites.
Best for Enterprises and MSPs managing complex hybrid infrastructure
LogicMonitor is a fully cloud-based, automated platform that enables enterprises and MSPs to monitor both infrastructures and their application stacks. With support for data centers, on-prem, and cloud-based systems, it covers multiple infrastructure types from a single console. We think the extensibility is the real strength here; if you can pull a metric from it, LogicMonitor can monitor it.
Customers praise the advanced out-of-the-box monitoring and simple alert configuration. Deploying custom datasources is straightforward, and implementation across client environments runs smoothly with solid documentation. The ease of implementation and configuration are highlighted alongside the 24/7 support offering. Something to be aware of is that the agentless architecture makes server monitoring more laborious to configure, and firewall rules and permissions require significant effort in environments with frequent changes.
We think LogicMonitor fits MSPs and enterprises with diverse infrastructure who need deep customization and hybrid cloud visibility. The AIOps capabilities are a strong addition, with LogicMonitor claiming a 90% reduction in alert noise through AI-powered event correlation. LogicMonitor is fully cloud-based, making it easy to deploy and giving it the flexibility to handle any environment.
Best for MSPs and IT teams managing diverse device fleets including mobile
ManageEngine is a division of Zoho Corporation that provides IT management software solutions designed to help businesses integrate and optimize their IT processes. RMM Central is ManageEngine’s remote monitoring and management platform that consolidates endpoint management, patch deployment, and IT asset tracking into a single console. We think it is a strong value option for MSPs and IT teams managing diverse device fleets including mobile endpoints.
Customers praise the consolidated approach; having patch management, endpoint monitoring, and asset tracking in one platform reduces tool sprawl. High levels of customization and the ease with which it syncs with Office 365 are highlighted. Something to be aware of is that some users flag the initial setup as time-consuming, and patch failure messages lack detail for effective troubleshooting.
We think RMM Central fits MSPs and IT teams whose environments include mobile devices and network infrastructure alongside standard endpoints. The unified console adds real value for teams managing diverse device fleets. Because the platform is available in 29 languages, we also recommend it to MSPs with a global client base, or whose own employees are based in multiple countries.
Best for CSP partners wanting zero-cost multi-tenant Microsoft 365 visibility
Microsoft 365 Lighthouse is Microsoft’s own solution designed to help MSPs manage the devices, data, and users of their SMB clients that are using Microsoft 365 Business Premium or Microsoft 365 E3. We think the zero-cost entry point is the real selling point for MSPs already managing Microsoft tenants. It doesn’t offer all of the RMM functionality that third-party vendors on this list provide, but the benefit of being a Microsoft product means deep native integration with the 365 ecosystem.
Customers value the smooth Microsoft integration and familiar admin console experience. Service health, MFA status, and secure scores are accessible without switching tools. Something to be aware of is that you cannot roll out tenant settings, Conditional Access, or Intune configurations in bulk, and management capabilities are limited compared to third-party alternatives.
We think Lighthouse fits MSPs who want quick visibility into Microsoft 365 environments without added cost or complexity. It is a strong starting point for CSP partners already working in Microsoft 365 admin centers. If your needs extend beyond Microsoft 365 management into broader endpoint and network monitoring, you will likely need to pair it with a third-party RMM.
Best for MSPs wanting security tools integrated directly into their RMM
N-able is a cybersecurity provider that specializes in solutions for MSPs. N-sight RMM is their remote monitoring and management platform designed to help MSPs secure and maintain their clients’ systems. We think the security integrations are what set this apart; DNS web filtering, EDR, and password management connect directly into the RMM rather than running as separate products.
Customers praise the straightforward setup and clean interface. Implementation and client rollout run smoothly, and the daily workflow feels manageable even across multiple sites and device types. Partner Success Managers are highlighted as responsive and knowledgeable. Users praise N-able RMM for its ease of use, both during setup and ongoing use. Something to be aware of is that UI inconsistencies across different platform sections affect navigation, and scripting support could be stronger for complex automation.
We think N-sight RMM fits MSPs who want security tools baked into their RMM rather than managing separate products. The bundled approach of RMM, remote access, ticketing, and billing in one platform reduces tool sprawl. We recommend N-able as a strong solution for any-sized MSP looking to easily manage their clients’ Office 365 environments with integrated security.
Best for MSPs and IT teams whose technicians work remotely or travel frequently
Pulseway is a remote IT and asset management tool that allows MSPs to more easily manage their clients’ digital environments. It is built around mobile-first access and quick deployment, offering a lot of out-of-the-box functionality on deployment alongside its customizable monitoring, patching, and issue management features. We think the mobile apps are the real differentiator here; remote control, troubleshooting, and system oversight work from iOS and Android devices with no compromise on functionality.
Customers highlight the patch management as a strong point. Daily operations run smoothly, and support responds quickly when issues arise. The ability to access assets from anywhere without a laptop appeals to technicians who work on the move. Users praise how reliable and customizable the solution is, as well as the communication from the customer support team. Something to be aware of is that the remote control agent feels clunky compared to dedicated tools, and reporting features are dated and need improvement.
We think Pulseway fits MSPs and IT teams whose technicians work remotely or travel frequently. If your workflow depends on managing systems from mobile devices, the app experience justifies the investment. The out-of-the-box functionality and quick deployment make it a practical choice for teams wanting to start managing Office 365 environments fast.
Pricing for remote management tools varies significantly by vendor, deployment size, and contract length. Several platforms on this list use quote-based pricing, so we recommend contacting vendors directly for accurate estimates based on your endpoint count.
| Product | Starting Price | Billing | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
|
NinjaOne
|
Contact for quote (per-device)
|
Monthly
|
|
|
Atera
|
$149/technician/month (Pro)
|
Monthly or Annual
|
|
|
ConnectWise RMM
|
Contact for quote (per-agent)
|
Annual
|
|
|
Datto RMM
|
Contact for quote (per-endpoint)
|
Annual
|
|
|
LogicMonitor
|
$16/hybrid unit (Essentials)
|
Annual
|
|
|
ManageEngine RMM Central
|
$1,195/50 devices/year
|
Annual
|
|
|
Microsoft 365 Lighthouse
|
Free (CSP partners)
|
N/A
|
|
|
N-able N-sight RMM
|
Contact for quote
|
Annual
|
|
|
Pulseway
|
From $22/device
|
Monthly or Annual
|
|
These are the configuration and operational steps we recommend when deploying and managing a remote management tool for Windows environments.
Incomplete agent coverage creates blind spots where unpatched or misconfigured devices go unmonitored.
Manual patching at scale leads to missed updates and the configuration drift that attackers exploit.
Untuned alerting overwhelms technicians and causes genuine critical events to be missed.
Per-client dashboards and role-based access prevent accidental cross-tenant changes and protect client data.
Reusable scripts reduce resolution time and ensure consistent fixes across your endpoint fleet.
Connecting RMM alerts to your ticketing workflow ensures issues are tracked, assigned, and resolved without manual handoff.
Pre-deployment testing catches compatibility issues before a broken patch reaches your entire client base.
MFA compliance, license usage, mail flow alerts, and configuration drift detection close gaps that endpoint-only monitoring misses.
Automated reports demonstrate patch status, device health, and security posture to clients without manual data gathering.
Client environments change over time; stale policies miss new device types, applications, and security requirements.
Managing Office 365 environments at scale requires more than basic endpoint monitoring. The best RMM tools on this list provide specialized Microsoft 365 integration, from license compliance to security configuration monitoring to automated patching. MSPs already committed to a specific ecosystem like ConnectWise, Datto, or N-able will find the most value in solutions that extend those investments. For those evaluating RMM tools for the first time, the key decision is whether you need a full-featured RMM with Office 365 support built in, or whether Microsoft 365 Lighthouse provides enough visibility as a starting point alongside a broader management platform.
Remote management software, or remote management and monitoring (RMM) software, enables managed service providers (MSPs) to ensure the security and operational effectiveness of their clients’ networks without having to visit those clients in person.
RMM tools allow MSPs to widen their client base geographically without increasing travel costs, which can increase revenue for the MSP. It also enables them to respond to incidents immediately, which improves customer security and satisfaction.
As well as the Windows-specific features we’ve outlined in this guide, RMM tools offer further features to help MSPs monitor and manage their clients’ entire digital environment more generally. These include:
Further reading on it management from Expert Insights — buyers' guides, comparison articles, and platform-specific shortlists.
Joel is the Director of Content and a co-founder at Expert Insights; a rapidly growing media company focussed on covering cybersecurity solutions.
He’s an experienced journalist and editor with 8 years’ experience covering the cybersecurity space. He’s reviewed hundreds of cybersecurity solutions, interviewed hundreds of industry experts and produced dozens of industry reports read by thousands of CISOs and security professionals in topics like IAM, MFA, zero trust, email security, DevSecOps and more.
He also hosts the Expert Insights Podcast and co-writes the weekly newsletter, Decrypted. Joel is driven to share his team’s expertise with cybersecurity leaders to help them create more secure business foundations.
Laura Iannini is a Cybersecurity Analyst at Expert Insights. With deep cybersecurity knowledge and strong research skills, she leads Expert Insights’ product testing team, conducting thorough tests of product features and in-depth industry analysis to ensure that Expert Insights’ product reviews are definitive and insightful.
Laura also carries out wider analysis of vendor landscapes and industry trends to inform Expert Insights’ enterprise cybersecurity buyers’ guides, covering topics such as security awareness training, cloud backup and recovery, email security, and network monitoring. Prior to working at Expert Insights, Laura worked as a Senior Information Security Engineer at Constant Edge, where she tested cybersecurity solutions, carried out product demos, and provided high-quality ongoing technical support.
Laura holds a Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity from the University of West Florida.