Technical Review by
Craig MacAlpine
Remote monitoring and management (RMM), also known as network management or remote IT management, is a software platform that helps managed service providers (MSPs) remotely and proactively monitor client endpoints, networks, and computers.
A good RMM solution must gather health and status information about client software, hardware and networks and feed that back to the MSP via a central admin console; this allows them to remotely monitor, manage and resolve client tech issues, often without the end user being aware.
In this article, we’ll explore the remote monitoring and management solutions designed to help MSPs manage their clients’ IT environments.
Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) software is the core operational tool for Managed Service Providers. It lets MSPs monitor, manage, and maintain their clients' computers, servers, and networks from a central console without visiting each client site. RMM platforms handle patching, alerting, scripting, remote access, and reporting across all client environments, making it possible for a small MSP team to manage thousands of endpoints across dozens of clients.
RMM platforms for MSPs deploy lightweight agents to managed endpoints across multiple client tenants, reporting telemetry to a multi-tenant cloud console with per-client isolation. Monitoring covers system health (CPU, memory, disk, services), software inventory, patch compliance, and security posture with configurable alerting thresholds per client. Policy engines automate detection and response through conditional rules, scripting (PowerShell, bash), and pre-built remediation workflows. Patch management automates OS and third-party application updates with approval workflows, staged rollouts, and rollback. Remote access provides both background command execution and interactive screen control. Advanced platforms add AI-assisted triage, autonomous remediation agents, integrated EDR, network topology mapping, and NOC-as-a-service for 24/7 coverage. PSA integration connects monitoring to ticketing, billing, and contract management. Pricing models (per-device, per-technician, per-user) directly impact MSP margins and scale economics.
This table compares the 9 RMM platforms we reviewed for MSPs across their core capabilities.
| Product | Best For | Pricing Model | Built-in PSA | AI Features | EDR Integration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
NinjaOne
|
Reliable core RMM without complexity
|
Per-device
|
no
|
✓ (Patch Intelligence)
|
no
|
|
Datto RMM
|
SMB client management at scale
|
Per-endpoint
|
Via Autotask
|
no
|
no
|
|
Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud
|
Unified RMM, backup, and cybersecurity console
|
Per-workload
|
✓ (built-in)
|
✓ (AI-assisted scripting, fail-safe patching)
|
✓ (native Acronis EDR/XDR)
|
|
Atera RMM
|
AI-enhanced RMM with per-technician pricing
|
Per-technician
|
✓ (built-in)
|
✓ (Copilot + Robin)
|
no
|
|
ConnectWise RMM
|
Scaling with NOC and intelligent automation
|
Per-endpoint
|
Via ConnectWise Manage
|
✓ (IntelliMon)
|
no
|
|
ManageEngine RMM Central
|
Complex networks with diverse device fleets
|
Per-endpoint
|
no
|
✓ (ML forecasting)
|
no
|
|
N-able N-central
|
Complex multi-tenant environments at scale
|
Per-device
|
no
|
✓ (AI scripting)
|
✓ (SentinelOne)
|
|
SuperOps
|
Small to mid-sized MSPs wanting unified tools
|
Per-technician
|
✓ (built-in)
|
✓ (ML alerts)
|
no
|
|
Syncro
|
Midsized MSPs managing M365 environments
|
Per-user
|
✓ (built-in)
|
✓ (AI tickets)
|
no
|
Expert Insights independently researches and tests RMM and IT management solutions. We assessed each platform across remote monitoring capabilities, patch management, automation, endpoint security, integrations, deployment options, pricing models, and real-world customer feedback from MSPs. This article was written by Caitlin Harris and technically reviewed by Craig MacAlpine. Read our full methodology
NinjaOne is a unified IT operations platform that combines RMM, patching, backup, and remote support in a single cloud-native console. We were impressed by the platform’s depth; it manages Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints with conditional policies, hundreds of out-of-the-box scripts, and PowerShell for real-time remote commands. We think it’s well suited to any MSP or IT team looking for a comprehensive, intuitive remote IT management platform.
We think NinjaOne works best for MSPs that need reliable core functionality without complexity. The per-device monthly pricing scales linearly, and free unlimited onboarding support and training are included without add-on costs. Full deployment typically takes two weeks to a month, with the agent deployed through Intune or on-premises Active Directory. The platform is highly intuitive; the interface is modern with strong visualization, making it easy for junior techs and senior engineers to work from the same console. Something to be aware of is that NinjaOne doesn’t offer software configuration management, and it isn’t an EDR tool or advanced security product. But it does improve security posture through deep endpoint visibility, patching, endpoint hardening, and reliable backups.
Datto, a Kaseya company, provides cloud-based software and technology solutions designed for MSPs serving SMBs. Datto Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) is their cloud-based platform that enables MSPs to remotely manage and support all contracted endpoints, with the goal of reducing costs and increasing efficiency of service delivery.
Datto RMM is a strong RMM solution for MSPs serving SMB clients. As a 100% cloud-based platform, it’s highly scalable and accessible from anywhere. The platform integrates with existing PSAs for single-click access, as well as over 200 third-party tools and solutions. Datto is fully focused on supporting their MSP community, so we recommend their RMM solution for any MSP looking to become part of a supportive partner ecosystem.
Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud is a backup, disaster recovery and endpoint management platform with a fully integrated RMM solution for service providers. The entire platform is delivered via one agent, so you can monitor, patch, and recover endpoints under one single admin console.
The major advantage of Acronis RMM is the security-first approach with integrated backups. This means that if a patch goes wrong and devices break, you can roll back immediately. AI-assisted patch stability scoring flags unstable patches before deployment, which reduces the risk of pushing a bad update to client environments.
We think it’s a strong fit for MSPs who want to consolidate RMM alongside cybersecurity and backup in one platform rather than managing separate tools.
Acronis offers a powerful RMM platform. Its key advantage is that the RMM is natively integrated with cybersecurity, backup and disaster recovery, all delivered via a single agent under a single admin console. The platform is easy to get deployed and up and running. We’d recommend it for MSPs looking to consolidate RMM alongside their security and backup stack.
Best for MSPs wanting AI-enhanced RMM with per-technician pricing
Atera specializes in remote-first IT management. Their AI-powered platform unifies RMM, PSA, remote access, and reporting in a single console. Atera monitors client systems in real time and provides IT admins with alerts about potential problems before they happen. The platform also integrates with Splashtop to provide continuous remote support for MSP clients. We think the per-technician pricing model is the defining advantage for growing MSPs.
Customers praise the broad OS compatibility and the centralized management of RMM, PSA, and remote access in one interface. The per-technician pricing model is consistently highlighted as a key advantage. Something to be aware of is that AI features take time to fully configure, and cloud SaaS workload management falls outside the platform’s scope.
We think Atera fits MSPs of any size that want an AI-enhanced RMM platform to automate workflows and deliver faster support. The per-technician model means scaling does not trigger per-device cost increases, which is particularly valuable for MSPs adding clients frequently.
Best for MSPs scaling with intelligent automation and outsourced NOC
ConnectWise specializes in software for technology solution providers. Their services cover remote monitoring, IT management, and cybersecurity, and are designed to support MSPs of varying sizes. ConnectWise RMM is a unified remote monitoring and management platform built on the Asio platform for MSPs managing IT environments at scale. We think ConnectWise RMM fits MSPs that want to scale efficiently with intelligent automation and outsourced NOC capabilities.
Customers praise the integrated NOC services, which deliver round-the-clock monitoring, remediation, and patch deployment. The drag-and-drop scripting engine is highlighted for making automation accessible to less technical team members. Something to be aware of is that the platform requires customization for unique workflows, and the interface carries a learning curve for newer team members.
We think ConnectWise RMM fits MSPs that want to scale efficiently with intelligent automation and outsourced NOC capabilities. The IntelliMon alert consolidation and 24/7 NOC support reduce the operational burden on smaller teams, and the Asio platform supports growth to over 100,000 devices.
Best for MSPs managing complex networks with diverse device fleets
ManageEngine, a division of Zoho Corporation, provides IT management software that helps businesses manage and integrate their IT processes. RMM Central is ManageEngine’s remote monitoring and management platform that combines endpoint management, automated patching, and multilayer network mapping for MSPs managing complex, multi-site environments. We think RMM Central fits MSPs managing complex networks with diverse device fleets where broad discovery and patching coverage matter.
Customers praise the breadth of coverage and the multilingual interface for international deployments. The analytics and reporting capabilities get consistently positive marks. Something to be aware of is that the free edition lacks advanced security and configuration controls, and the interface can lag with large device inventories.
We think RMM Central fits MSPs managing complex networks with diverse device fleets where broad discovery and patching coverage matter. The Layer 2 mapping and ML-powered forecasting give network-heavy MSPs capabilities that lighter RMM tools lack.
Best for MSPs managing complex, multi-tenant environments at scale
N-able, formerly the MSP division of SolarWinds before spinning off as an independent company in July 2021, specializes in providing monitoring, security, and business tools for MSPs. N-central is an enterprise-grade RMM platform that combines remote monitoring with integrated endpoint detection and response. With N-central, admins can use automation tools to onboard, configure, and patch hundreds of endpoints quickly. N-able has also added EDR capabilities to N-central through a SentinelOne integration, providing layered endpoint security alongside core RMM. We think N-central fits MSPs and IT service providers managing complex, multi-tenant environments.
Customers praise the drag-and-drop automation that lets any skill level design workflows and standardize processes. The integrated EDR and network mapping capabilities are highlighted as differentiators for security-focused MSPs. Something to be aware of is that advanced automation requires setup time to optimize, and the platform carries more complexity than lighter RMM tools.
We think N-central fits MSPs and IT service providers managing complex, multi-tenant environments, especially those operating in regulated industries where endpoint security and compliance reporting matter. The SentinelOne EDR integration and 700+ pre-built scripts give larger MSPs the depth they need.
Best for small to mid-sized MSPs wanting unified RMM and PSA
SuperOps is a cloud-native unified RMM and PSA platform built specifically for MSPs. We think the combination of client management, ticketing, and endpoint monitoring in a single interface makes it a strong fit for small to mid-sized MSPs looking to reduce tool sprawl.
Customers praise the clean UI, fast onboarding, and responsive support team. The unified PSA and RMM approach simplifies day-to-day operations for smaller teams. Something to be aware of is that PSA depth is lighter than legacy platforms for complex project billing, and AI features are still maturing beyond ticket summarisation.
We think SuperOps fits small to mid-sized MSPs that want to simplify their toolset through a unified RMM and PSA platform. If you need deep PSA capabilities or advanced automation, a more established platform may be a better fit.
Best for midsized MSPs managing Microsoft 365 environments
Syncro offers what it calls an Extended Monitoring and Management (XMM) platform, unifying RMM, PSA, and Microsoft 365 management in a single tool. We think the transparent per-user pricing with unlimited device coverage and no contracts is the biggest draw for midsized MSPs.
Customers praise the transparent per-user pricing and the contract-free model. The XMM approach of combining RMM, PSA, and Microsoft 365 management is highlighted as a differentiator. Something to be aware of is that advanced automation features require initial configuration, and the platform is newer to market with features still maturing.
We think Syncro fits midsized MSPs that manage Microsoft 365 environments and want endpoint monitoring, PSA, and M365 governance in one platform without per-device pricing pressure.
We've looked at 20+ RMM solutions to create this list. Here's some other vendors for you to consider:
Offers remote monitoring, management, and automation of IT systems, with tools for patch, security, and scripting.
A mobile-first RMM solution for remote system monitoring and management.
A cloud-based RMM platform for remote monitoring, patch management, software deployment, and endpoint management.
Provides remote monitoring, asset management, patch management, and ticketing functionalities.
Offers remote monitoring and management tools with features like patch management, automation, and security.
Provides tools for remote access, endpoint management, patch management, and reporting.
RMM pricing models directly impact MSP margins. Per-device, per-technician, and per-user models each have trade-offs depending on client base and growth plans.
| Product | Starting Price | Billing | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
|
NinjaOne
|
From $1.50/endpoint/month
|
Monthly
|
|
|
Datto RMM
|
From $2.99/endpoint/month
|
Annual
|
|
|
Acronis Cyber Protect
|
Contact for quote
|
|
|
|
Atera RMM
|
From $129/technician/month
|
Monthly or annual
|
|
|
ConnectWise RMM
|
Contact for quote
|
Annual
|
|
|
ManageEngine RMM Central
|
From $24/endpoint/year
|
Annual
|
|
|
N-able N-central
|
Contact for quote (per-device)
|
Annual
|
|
|
SuperOps
|
From $79/technician/month
|
Annual
|
|
|
Syncro
|
From $129/user/month
|
Monthly or annual
|
|
These are the evaluation criteria we recommend when selecting an RMM platform for your MSP practice.
RMM consoles that flood your queue with noise waste technician time; platforms with alert consolidation and intelligent routing surface the problems that actually matter.
Patch management that works for Windows but struggles with macOS or third-party apps creates compliance gaps across your client base.
Pre-built scripts reduce the barrier for junior techs; AI-assisted script generation accelerates custom automation for experienced teams.
Disconnected RMM and PSA tools create sync issues; unified platforms simplify operations but may lack depth for complex project billing.
Per-device pricing punishes growth; per-technician rewards it. Calculate costs at 2x and 5x your current endpoint count.
Tools that require multiple clicks per connection slow down technicians handling dozens of sessions daily.
Platforms with built-in EDR eliminate separate security tool management; standalone RMM requires bolt-on products.
MSPs that can't staff 24/7 benefit from outsourced NOC services; verify the NOC actually resolves issues rather than just escalating them.
The RMM market continues to evolve with AI-powered automation, integrated security features, and unified PSA platforms becoming standard expectations. The right choice depends on your MSP’s size, client base, and existing toolset.
Organizations already invested in specific vendor platforms will find the most value in solutions that extend those investments. MSPs managing complex, multi-tenant environments should prioritize automation depth and security integrations, while growing teams should evaluate pricing models that scale without per-device cost increases.
For smaller MSPs, unified RMM and PSA platforms offer accessible entry points that reduce tool sprawl from day one.
RMM software, also referred to as remote IT management or network management software, enables managed service providers (MSPs) to monitor their clients’ networks for IT and security issues and respond to those issues from anywhere, without causing disruption. With RMM tools, MSPs can identify and remediate security vulnerabilities without having to visit their clients in person, reducing travel costs as well as their mean time to respond to incidents. In turn, this leads to reduced downtime, increased security, and higher client satisfaction.
To achieve this, RMM software helps MSPs by gathering data about their clients’ networks, software, and endpoints; tracking network and device health; generating alerts or tickets when an issue is identified; supplying the MSP with health, performance, and activity reports; and automating scheduled maintenance tasks such as patching. By allowing the RMM tool to take care of these tasks, MSPs can dedicate their time, energy, and resources to tasks that require more human intervention, such as consulting with their clients on how they can expand and grow their business.
When an RMM platform is deployed, an agent is installed on all of the client workstations, servers, and endpoints that the MSP wants to monitor, and a central management component is installed in the MSP’s server. The agents then feed back health and status information to the MSP, alerting them in real-time to any changes in health or performance. If a change or issue is detected, the RMM tool generates an alert or ticket, which it sends to the MSP so that they can resolve the issue. The best RMM tools add contextual information to these alerts and classify each one in terms of issue type and severity, so that the MSP can quickly identify what action they need to take and prioritize more critical issues—often before the client even realizes there’s an issue at all.
There are a few reasons why an MSP or IT service provider may want to use an RMM tool. First, RMM tools give MSPs complete remote visibility of their clients’ networks, no matter where they or the clients are based. This means that even smaller MSPs and IT teams can support and manage multiple clients, as they don’t have to travel to visit a client each time an issue arises.
Second, RMM software offers lots of automation that enables MSPs to streamline their issue detection and resolution workflows. This, in turn, allows the MSP to spend less time on manual, time-consuming tasks, so that they can support more users and endpoints—effectively allowing them to scale their support operations.
But RMM software doesn’t only enable MSPs to scale their support—it also enables them to offer better support! With a strong RMM tool, MSPs can get ahead of potential issues more quickly by proactively and continuously monitoring their clients’ networks for indicators that something’s wrong. This helps them identify and resolve problems more quickly, minimizing downtime and disruption, and boosting customer satisfaction.
Finally, the best RMM solutions make it much easier for MSPs to manage their clients’ networks by providing them with a single pane of glass from which they can view all the metrics they need. To achieve this, RMM tools integrate with PSA, backup, endpoint security, and patching software, among other IT tools. This means that the RMM software’s dashboard can act as a central control panel for multiple tools.
While all RMM tools offer a slightly different feature set to help you meet the specific needs of your clients, there are some features you should look out for in any strong RMM software. These include:
Remote monitoring
Your RMM tool should gather health and status information client software, hardware, and networks and feed that data back to you in as close to real-time as possible so you can stay on top of maintenance.
Remote management, remote control, and secure remote access
You should be able to configure your clients’ IT security and respond to issues remotely, so that you don’t have to add travel time to your mean time to respond. This should include the ability to manage mobile devices.
Automation
Your RMM software should automate routine tasks such as onboarding, patch management, alerting, and ticketing to save you time and allow you to focus on incident response.
Reporting and analytics
From your RMM tool’s central management console, you should be able to generate clear, customizable reports into the health and security status of your clients’ networks at a granular level.
Integrations
Your RMM software should integrate easily with your user directory for easier onboarding and offboarding. It should also integrate with your existing security tools, ticketing tools, and PSA software.
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.
Craig MacAlpine is CEO and Founder of Expert Insights. Before founding Expert Insights in August 2018, Craig spent 10 years as CEO of EPA Cloud, an email security provider that rebranded as VIPRE Email Security following its acquisition by Ziff Davis, formerly J2Global (NASDAQ: ZD) in 2013.
Craig is a passionate security innovator with over 20 years of experience helping organizations to stay secure with cutting-edge information security and cybersecurity solutions.
Using his extensive experience in the email security industry, he founded Expert Insights with the singular goal of helping IT professionals and CISOs to cut through the noise and find the right cybersecurity solutions they need to protect their organizations.