Top RMM Tools: Essential Features for Modern IT Management in 2025
- Brian Mizell

- 1 day ago
- 14 min read
Managing IT systems today is kind of a headache, right? With everyone working from all over the place and new security worries popping up constantly, IT teams really need good tools to keep things running smoothly. Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) tools are basically the workhorses for this. They let you keep an eye on and fix computer systems from pretty much anywhere. This article looks at some of the top RMM tools out there for 2025, helping you figure out what works best for keeping your tech in check.
Key Takeaways
RMM tools are software that lets IT people watch and manage computer systems from afar. They help fix problems before users even know they exist.
Good RMM tools can automate tasks like software updates and security checks, saving time and reducing mistakes.
Features like patch management, secure remote access, and clear reporting are super important for any RMM.
When picking an RMM, think about if it can grow with your needs, if it works with your other tools, and how easy it is to use.
The right RMM setup can make your IT team more efficient, keep your systems safer, and make your clients or users happier.
1. NinjaOne
NinjaOne is a pretty solid RMM tool that a lot of IT folks seem to like. It's known for being easy to get started with, which is a big plus when you're busy. They've packed a lot into one place – think remote monitoring, patch management, and even remote access. It really aims to give you a clear view of everything happening in your IT setup.
What stands out is their focus on customer satisfaction. Seriously, they consistently get high marks for support. It seems like their team is really invested in helping you succeed. This isn't just talk; the numbers back it up:
98.4% CSAT (customer satisfaction score)
95% of customers see better IT efficiency through automation.
94% reduced ticket volume and faster resolution times.
93% saved time on software deployment and patching.
70% reduced vulnerabilities by a significant margin.
It's built to be a complete package, combining RMM with ticketing and data protection. This means you're not juggling a bunch of different tools. The interface is pretty straightforward, which helps your team get up to speed quickly. They also have a free trial, so you can test it out before committing. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a tool that simplifies managing your IT environment and helps keep systems secure through things like automated patch management detecting threats in real-time.
NinjaOne aims to automate the more tedious parts of IT work, giving you better visibility and control over your devices from the get-go. It’s designed to make your IT operations run more smoothly.
2. Datto RMM
Datto RMM is a cloud-based solution that MSPs have relied on for a while now. Even after Kaseya acquired Datto, the platform has kept its focus on helping IT providers manage client devices and infrastructure from pretty much anywhere. It's built to give you a clear view of what's happening across your clients' networks.
One of the big draws for Datto RMM is its integration capabilities, especially with other Datto products and popular PSA tools. This helps create a more unified workflow, which can save a lot of time and reduce the chances of things falling through the cracks. They've also put some effort into making the user interface better, with a recent update aiming to make it easier to get around and use.
Key features you'll find include:
Real-time monitoring: Keep an eye on device health, performance metrics like CPU and memory usage, and network activity. If something looks off, it can send alerts.
Patch management: Automate the deployment of OS and third-party software updates to keep systems secure and compliant.
Remote access: Connect to client devices to troubleshoot issues, make changes, or perform maintenance without needing to be physically present.
Ransomware detection: A built-in feature designed to spot and flag ransomware activity early on.
Microsoft 365 management: A native module for handling M365 environments, which is pretty handy for many MSPs.
Datto RMM also has a focus on business continuity, tying in nicely with Datto's disaster recovery solutions. This means you can often manage backup and recovery alongside your RMM tasks.
While Datto RMM is a solid choice, especially if you're already in the Datto ecosystem, it's worth noting that pricing isn't always straightforward. You'll typically need to get a custom quote based on your specific needs. Also, some users have mentioned a steeper learning curve and that support response times can sometimes be a bit slow compared to other options.
3. N-able RMM/N-central
N-able RMM, often paired with its more robust counterpart N-central, has been a long-standing player in the RMM space, particularly favored by Managed Service Providers (MSPs). It’s known for its deep capabilities in handling complex IT environments. The platform recently saw an update with N-central 2025.2 in April 2025, which brought some notable improvements.
One of the big focuses in this update was expanding Linux compatibility, which is a big deal for shops that aren't exclusively Windows-based. They also beefed up the audit logs, giving IT pros more detailed visibility into what's happening across their managed systems. Plus, there are now advanced features like automatic patch approval that can use CVSS scores to decide what gets pushed out first. This kind of automation is key for keeping systems secure without bogging down the IT team.
N-able's approach seems to be about giving MSPs the granular control they need to manage diverse and intricate client networks efficiently. It’s not always the simplest tool to pick up, but the depth of features is there for those who need it.
Here’s a quick look at some of the core strengths:
Proactive Monitoring: Keeps an eye on system health, network performance, and potential issues before they impact users.
Automated Patching: Streamlines the process of updating operating systems and third-party applications to fix vulnerabilities.
Advanced Scripting: Allows for custom automation to handle specific IT tasks and workflows.
Reporting: Provides detailed insights into system performance, security, and compliance for clients.
N-able RMM/N-central is a solid choice if you're managing a lot of different devices and need a platform that can grow with your business. It’s a tool that really helps MSPs optimize management efficiency in today's IT world.
4. ConnectWise RMM
ConnectWise RMM is built on the ConnectWise Platform, which is designed to scale as your business grows. It aims to blend ready-made automation with the flexibility to customize things to your specific needs. This means you get a lot of power to tweak how it works for your team.
When it comes to managing your clients' IT, ConnectWise RMM offers a few key areas:
Patch Management: Keeping systems updated is a big deal for security. ConnectWise RMM provides tools to help automate this process across your managed devices.
Remote Monitoring and Management: This is the core of any RMM. You can keep an eye on devices and networks, spotting issues before they become major problems.
Remote Access/Control: When something does go wrong, you need to be able to jump in and fix it. ConnectWise RMM includes capabilities for accessing and controlling endpoints remotely, making quick user support a reality.
Automation: A big selling point is its automation engine. You can set up scripts and workflows to handle repetitive tasks, freeing up your technicians' time.
The platform's strength lies in its deep integration with other ConnectWise products, which can be a huge advantage if you're already using their PSA or other tools. However, it's worth noting that some users find the platform can have a steeper learning curve, and getting the most out of its customization options might require some dedicated training or time investment.
While ConnectWise RMM offers robust features, its complexity means that proper onboarding and understanding of its capabilities are key to maximizing its benefits. It's not always a plug-and-play solution, but for those willing to invest the time, it can be a powerful part of an IT management toolkit.
5. Pulseway
Pulseway really tries to be that all-in-one solution for IT pros, letting you keep an eye on and manage everything from your phone, tablet, or just a web browser. It's built for IT companies of all sizes, aiming to consolidate monitoring and management for servers, devices, virtual machines, and network gear into a single dashboard. They also have automation tools to handle those repetitive tasks, freeing up your team for more important stuff.
One of the things users like is the custom alerts. You can set up notifications for pretty specific events, which is handy. However, it's not all smooth sailing. Some users have mentioned that the automation scripting could be better, and there's a bit of a learning curve, especially if you're dealing with macOS and Linux devices. Also, a few reviews pointed out that the remote access tool can feel a bit sluggish sometimes.
Here's a quick look at how Pulseway stacks up based on user feedback:
Overall Rating: Around 4.6-4.7 out of 5 stars on major review sites.
Ease of Use: Generally rated high, around 9.2-9.3.
Quality of Support: Also scores well, typically 9.0-9.2.
Ease of Administration: Users find it quite manageable, often around 9.3.
While Pulseway aims for simplicity and broad device support, getting the most out of its automation features might require some extra effort, and remote control responsiveness can be a point of concern for some users.
6. Hexnode
Hexnode is a pretty solid contender in the RMM space, especially if you're dealing with a lot of different types of devices. It really shines as a unified endpoint management solution. Think of it as a central hub where you can keep an eye on and manage everything from Windows laptops and Macs to Android phones and even Apple TVs. This makes it a great choice for businesses that have a diverse fleet of hardware.
One of the standout features is how easy it makes getting new devices set up. They've got these zero-touch enrollment options, which basically means you can get devices ready to go for your users without having to touch them yourself. This is a huge time-saver, especially when you're onboarding a bunch of new employees or rolling out new equipment. It also plays nicely with Apple's Business Manager and School Manager, which is a nice bonus for Mac and iOS heavy environments.
Hexnode also lets you push out policies across all your devices, no matter the operating system. So, if you need to enforce certain security settings or install specific software, you can do it from one place. It's all about making device management less of a headache.
However, it's not all perfect. Some users have mentioned that the customer support could be a bit better. Also, the interface can feel a little complex, especially if you're new to this kind of software. It might be better suited for IT pros who are already comfortable with managing multiple devices and operating systems. They also don't offer support for on-premises Linux device management, which could be a dealbreaker for some.
While Hexnode offers a broad range of device support and simplifies enrollment, potential users should consider the learning curve and customer service feedback. It's a powerful tool, but might require a bit more technical know-how to get the most out of it compared to some other options.
Here's a quick look at what Hexnode brings to the table:
Unified Management: Control Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and tvOS devices from a single dashboard.
Zero-Touch Enrollment: Streamline device onboarding with automated setup processes.
Policy Management: Deploy configurations and security settings across your entire device fleet.
Remote Troubleshooting: Monitor device health and resolve issues remotely.
If you're looking for a tool that can handle a wide variety of devices and simplify the setup process, Hexnode is definitely worth checking out. It's a robust platform that can help streamline your IT operations, especially if you're managing a mixed-OS environment. You can find more details about how Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) tools work to help manage IT infrastructure.
7. Atera
Atera really tries to be an all-in-one package for IT management. It bundles together Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) with Professional Services Automation (PSA) and a service desk, all in one dashboard. This means you can handle monitoring, ticketing, and even some automation tasks without jumping between different tools. It's designed to give IT teams a clear view and control over their clients' devices.
One of the things Atera focuses on is making things simple. They claim it only takes about five minutes to get a new device onboarded, which is pretty quick. The platform supports Windows, macOS, and Linux devices for patch management, which is a good range. They also have AI-powered features that are supposed to help cut down on mistakes and speed things up.
Here's a quick look at some of its capabilities:
Patch Management: Handles updates for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Network Monitoring: Gives you a look at your network in real-time.
Automation: Automates tasks like system scans and patching.
Unified Dashboard: Combines RMM, PSA, and helpdesk functions.
While Atera aims for simplicity, some users have mentioned that the customer support response times could be better, and the patch management scheduling might need some fine-tuning. Also, the list of third-party integrations isn't as long as some other platforms out there. Still, for many IT businesses, especially those looking for a consolidated tool, Atera is a solid contender. The platform has seen updates to its agents, moving to .NET 8 for better performance, which is a good sign of ongoing development for Atera agents.
The idea behind Atera is to simplify IT management by bringing multiple functions into a single interface. This can cut down on the complexity of managing different software solutions and make it easier for technicians to get their work done efficiently. It's about having a central hub for most of your daily IT tasks.
8. Action1
Action1 is a newer player in the RMM space, but it's definitely making some noise. What's cool is that they offer a free tier for up to 50 Windows systems, which is pretty sweet for smaller outfits or those just starting out. It's a cloud-based tool, so you don't need a bunch of extra hardware to get going.
One of the standout features is its patch management. It handles operating systems, third-party apps, and even custom software. They claim you can patch without needing a VPN, even for remote machines, which sounds like a real time-saver. They also focus on vulnerability remediation, helping you spot and fix security holes quickly.
Here's a quick look at what Action1 brings to the table:
Unified Patch Management: Covers OS, third-party apps, and custom software.
Vulnerability Remediation: Detects and helps deploy fixes for security weaknesses.
Cloud-First Approach: Managed from the cloud, reducing hardware needs.
Free Tier: Available for up to 50 Windows endpoints.
However, it's not all perfect. Some users have mentioned that the agent only works on Windows devices, which could be a problem if you manage Macs or Linux machines. Also, a few reviews point out that the reporting features could be more robust, and the interface might feel a bit complex to some, making it tricky to find certain functions.
While Action1 shines with its patch management and free tier, it's worth checking if its Windows-only agent and reporting capabilities fit your specific IT environment before committing.
9. Syncro
Syncro is an interesting option for IT pros, especially those running smaller Managed Service Providers (MSPs). What sets it apart is its attempt to combine a few different tools into one package. You get your Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) features, but also Professional Services Automation (PSA) tools and even a built-in remote access solution. This all-in-one approach can really simplify your tech stack.
Syncro aims to be the central hub for managing both your technical tasks and the business side of things. For instance, it handles remote monitoring to keep an eye on client devices, automates patch management to keep systems secure, and lets you run scripts to handle routine jobs. Plus, it throws in features like invoicing and a customer relationship management (CRM) system.
Here’s a quick look at what it offers:
Remote Monitoring: Keep tabs on device health and performance in real-time.
Patch Management: Automate updates for operating systems and applications.
Automated Scripting: Streamline repetitive tasks to save time.
Ticketing System: Manage support requests efficiently.
Business Management: Includes invoicing, payments, and CRM features.
It’s not perfect, though. Some users have mentioned that Syncro might not have as many third-party integrations as some of its competitors. Customer support is another area where feedback suggests there's room for improvement. Also, the dashboard might feel a bit limited in terms of customization for those who like to tweak everything.
Syncro is a solid choice if you're a solo technician or a small team looking to consolidate your tools. It's designed to be straightforward, and the pricing is generally seen as quite reasonable, especially considering it bundles RMM and PSA. Just be aware that if your needs are very complex or you rely heavily on a wide array of integrations, you might find it a bit basic.
Syncro offers a free 30-day trial, which is a good way to see if its integrated approach fits your workflow before committing.
10. LogMeIn Resolve and more
LogMeIn Resolve, which used to be called GoTo Assist, is a pretty straightforward RMM solution. It's built with small to medium-sized businesses in mind, and it comes with a zero-trust setup, which is nice for security. The platform tries to make things more efficient by automating workflows and tasks, and you don't even need to know how to script to use it. This makes it a good option if you're just starting out or have a smaller IT team.
It offers a few key things:
Remote Monitoring: You get a clear view of how your IT systems are doing.
Ticketing System: It includes a way to manage support requests, and you can even automate parts of the workflow.
Automation: You can use pre-made scripts or create your own to handle repetitive jobs.
However, it's not all smooth sailing. Some users have mentioned that the software can get slow, especially when you add more devices to manage. This could be a problem if your business is growing fast. Also, the reporting features aren't very flexible, so you might not be able to get the exact reports you need. And, the remote control part has had its share of issues, like screens freezing or connections dropping unexpectedly.
While LogMeIn Resolve aims for simplicity and automation, potential users should be aware of reported performance hiccups and limitations in reporting customization. It's a tool that might work well for basic needs but could present scaling challenges.
Beyond LogMeIn Resolve, the RMM landscape is always evolving. Keep an eye on newer players and specialized tools that might offer unique advantages for specific IT management needs.
Looking for ways to improve your IT support? We explore tools like LogMeIn Resolve and other advanced solutions that can make a big difference. These systems help fix computer problems quickly and efficiently, saving you time and hassle. Want to see how we can help your business run smoother? Visit our website today to learn more!
Wrapping Up: Your IT Management Toolkit for 2025
So, we've looked at what makes a good RMM tool tick in 2025. These platforms aren't just fancy gadgets; they're pretty much a necessity for keeping IT running smoothly, especially with everyone working from different places and cyber threats always lurking. Picking the right one means your team can fix problems faster, keep things secure, and honestly, just do a better job without pulling their hair out. Think about what your specific setup needs – patching, remote access, automation – and find a tool that fits. Getting this right means less stress and better results for everyone involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly are RMM tools?
Think of RMM tools as super-smart remote control systems for computers and networks. They let IT helpers keep an eye on devices, fix problems, and update software from far away, all from one central spot. It's like having a magic wand to manage all your tech without leaving your desk.
Why are RMM tools so important for businesses today?
In today's world, where many people work from home or different places, businesses need to keep their technology running smoothly and safely. RMM tools help IT teams do just that by catching problems early, fixing them fast, and making sure everything is up-to-date and secure, which keeps the business running without interruptions.
Can RMM tools help prevent computer problems?
Absolutely! RMM tools are great at spotting issues before they become big headaches. They constantly check things like how fast a computer is running or if a hard drive is getting full. If they see something that might cause trouble, they can often fix it automatically or alert the IT team to step in, stopping problems before they even start.
Are RMM tools difficult to use?
Many RMM tools are designed to be user-friendly. They usually have a main dashboard that shows you everything at a glance. While some advanced features might take a little learning, most tools aim to make managing IT easier, not harder. Plus, trying them out with a free trial is a good way to see if they fit your style.
Do RMM tools help with computer security?
Yes, they play a big role in security! RMM tools help by making sure all software is updated with the latest security fixes, which closes off weak spots that hackers could use. They also help enforce security rules across all devices and keep track of who did what, which is important for staying safe and following rules.
How do RMM tools help save money?
RMM tools save money in a few ways. By fixing problems remotely and automatically, they reduce the need for IT staff to travel to different locations, saving time and travel costs. They also help prevent downtime, which can be very expensive for businesses. Plus, by making IT teams more efficient, they can handle more work without needing to hire more people.



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