Top 12 Remote Equipment Management Software for 2024

Remote equipment management software is like having a magic dashboard for your business, letting you monitor, control, and maintain your devices and assets from anywhere—whether you're in the office or lounging on a beach. With the right tools and systems, companies can boost efficiency, cut downtime, and beef up security. In this article, we'll dive into the top remote equipment management solutions for 2024 and spotlight the key features to look for when picking the perfect tool for your organization.

Best Remote Equipment Management Software in 2024

With the market for remote monitoring and management tools skyrocketing, it’s crucial to know which software stands out. Remote IT management offers an alternative to traditional RMM software, enabling IT professionals to secure, monitor, and manage endpoint devices from a distance. Here are the best remote equipment management solutions for 2024:

• Best for It Procurement and Equipment Management: GroWrk

• Best for Comprehensive Asset Tracking: Asset Panda  

• Best for Unified IT Management: ManageEngine RMM Central

• Best for Cloud-Based RMM: NinjaOne

• Best for All-in-One RMM: Atera

• Best for Small Businesses: GoTo Resolve

• Best for Free Endpoint Management: Action1

• Best for Large Enterprises: N-central RMM

• Best for Open-Source IT Asset Management: Snipe-IT

GroWrk

GroWrk is an IT asset management platform that offers real-time asset tracking and analytics. With the GroWrk dashboard you can procure IT equipment in 150+ countries and get it deployed in less than 10 days.  You can pre-configure your devices with the software and MDM that you wish, so need for extra steps in onboarding new employees. 

GroWrk offers a full lifecycle management solution for onboarding, maintaining, and offboarding equipment. It handles global shipping and logistics end-to-end and devices are deployed in less than 10 days.  GroWrk simplifies the process of onboarding new employees and distributing equipment. It provides a cost-effective solution for scaling global teams and helps you get the most out of each device lifecycle.

GroWrk’s comprehensive features such as cost reporting and analysis, AI chatbot, Task Manager, 24-7 help desk make it a valuable tool for enhancing your IT operations.

Pros:

• Global procurement coverage

• SOC 2 certified

• Pre-configuration and device management

• Intuitive dashboard

• 40+ native integrations

• Detailed order status and SLAS

• Robust logistics network for guaranteed delivery times

• Full-lifecycle management with for 4 options for device retirement

• Real-time asset tracking and comprehensive analytics

Price: Book a demo and find out more

Rating:

• Price: 5/5

• Design: 5/5

• Usability: 5/5

• Features: 5/5

Asset Panda - Best for Comprehensive Asset Tracking

Asset Panda is a robust asset management solution that excels in tracking both digital and physical assets. Its versatility allows businesses to manage assets and various types of assets seamlessly within a single system. The platform supports a wide range of industries, making it suited for both IT and equipment management needs. With an intuitive user interface, Asset Panda simplifies asset management processes for users, enhancing overall productivity.

Asset Panda excels in managing assets comprehensively. From tracking asset information to monitoring asset usage and maintenance, Asset Panda offers a holistic approach to asset management. The pricing may be steep for smaller businesses, and some advanced features might need additional training to use effectively.

Pros:

• Comprehensive asset tracking

• Versatility across industries

• Intuitive user interface

Cons:

• Pricing can be higher for smaller businesses

• Advanced features may require additional training

Price: Available upon request

Rating:

• Price: 4/5

• Design: 5/5

• Usability: 4/5

• Features: 5/5 

Firstbase

Firstbase is an IT asset management platform that offers real-time asset tracking and analytics. With their dashboard you can procure IT equipment globally and manage each of their lifecycles.

On the downside, Firstbase has additional cost for platform onboarding and extra shipping fees for countries outside their offering. Despite these cons, Firstbase remains an excellent choice for businesses looking to streamline their equipment management processes.

Pros:

• Simplifies employee onboarding and equipment distribution

• Automated asset recovery during offboarding

• Cost-effective for scaling remote teams

Cons:

• Limited-global coverage

• Implementation fee

• Onboarding fee
• Limited dashboard features

Price: Available upon request

Rating:

• Price: 3/5

• Design: 4/5

• Usability: 4/5

• Features: 3/5

Hofy (Now Deel IT)

Hofy offers global procurement and compliance management, making it ideal for businesses with remote teams across different countries. It simplifies equipment recovery and replacement, ensuring that remote teams have the necessary tools to stay productive. Hofy also provides automated equipment tracking and updates, enhancing overall operational efficiency.

The higher cost can be a barrier for small-scale businesses, and Hofy also relies on a leasing model with limited ownership options. There is a limited product selection for procurement depending on the country and less flexibility for providing customized solutions. There are no clear end-of-lifecycle features for the dashboard.

Pros:

• Simplifies compliance and customs management

• Fully managed global logistics

Cons:

• Lacks broader ITAM integrations.

• Additional fees for support, device configuration and maintenance

• Limited global coverage beyond Europe. 

Price: Available upon request

Rating:

• Price: 2/5

• Design: 3/5

• Usability: 4/5

• Features: 4/5

Workwize

Workwize simplifies procurement with customizable IT catalogs and zero-touch deployment via SSO. It offers real-time tracking, along with automated retrieval workflows. Workwize streamlines workflows and provides comprehensive tracking and security compliance, making it a valuable tool for global scalability.

Workwize still is a relative newcomer to the market and many of their service offerings they are still developing. Their dashboard lacks advanced features and their platform is limited to simple integrations. The global coverage can be improved with gaps in procurement options beyond Europe. While they do offer lifecycle management services there are no disposal features within the platform. 

Pros:

• Streamlined workflows and global scalability

• Comprehensive tracking and security compliance

• Flexible delivery options

Cons:

• Slow loading times

• Lacks advanced ITAM features

• Not SOC 2 certified
• Limited Global Coverage
• Poor customer support

Price: Available upon request

Rating:

• Price: 3/5

• Design: 4/5

• Usability: 3/5

• Features: 3/5

ManageEngine RMM Central

ManageEngine RMM Central offers a unified console for managing multiple networks and automated patch management. It provides complete control over IT infrastructure and includes enterprise-level security features. ManageEngine RMM Central is ideal for businesses looking for a comprehensive management platform for remote management.

On the downside, the interface can be complex with a steep learning curve, and the higher costs may deter small and medium-sized businesses. Despite these challenges, ManageEngine RMM Central remains a top choice for enterprises needing robust remote monitoring and management tools.

Price: Free trial available, custom quotes upon request

Pros:

• Complete control over IT infrastructure

• Enterprise-level security features

Cons:

• Complex interface with a learning curve

• Higher costs for SMBs

Price: Custom quotes available

Rating:

• Price: 4/5

• Design: 4/5

• Usability: 3/5

• Features: 5/5

NinjaOne

NinjaOne is a cloud-based RMM solution that offers automated patch management and remote access to endpoint devices. It is known for its ease of use and scalable interface, making it a popular choice among IT professionals. The platform also provides strong customer support and free training, which is a significant advantage for users who need assistance.

However, NinjaOne can be expensive for small IT teams, and the initial setup can be complex. Despite these drawbacks, its robust features and excellent customer support make it a remote equipment management software.

Pros:

• Easy to use, scalable interface

• Strong customer support and free training

Cons:

• High cost for small IT teams

• Complex initial setup

Price: Pay-per-device, custom quotes available

Rating:

• Price: 3/5

• Design: 4/5

• Usability: 4/5

• Features: 5/5

Atera

Atera is an all-in-one RMM, PSA, and remote access platform that offers IT automation with a large script library. It is easy to navigate and operates on a pay-per-technician model, allowing unlimited devices without incurring additional costs. This pricing model can be particularly beneficial for small to medium-sized businesses.

On the downside, Atera offers limited customization for large enterprises, and its basic features may not meet the needs of more complex IT environments. Despite these limitations, Atera’s user-friendly interface and cost-effective pricing make it an excellent choice for many businesses.

Pros:

• Easy to navigate

• No per-device fees, pay-per-technician model

Cons:

• Limited customization for large enterprises

• Basic features may be insufficient for complex needs

Price: Different pricing plans depending on the number of features and charged per technician.

Rating:

• Price: 4/5

• Design: 4/5

• Usability: 4/5

• Features: 3/5

GoTo Resolve

GoTo Resolve is a free entry-level RMM solution that offers real-time alerts, managed antivirus, and remote support. It is particularly affordable for small businesses, which can benefit from its zero-trust security model. This makes it a great starting point for businesses looking to implement remote management tools without a significant investment.

However, the free plans have limited customization options, and advanced features are restricted to paid tiers. Despite these limitations, GoTo Resolve provides a valuable and cost-effective solution for small businesses.

Pros:

• Affordable for small businesses

• Zero-trust security

Cons:

• Limited customization in free plans

• Advanced features restricted to paid tiers

Price: Free plan available, custom pricing for advanced features

Rating:

• Price: 5/5

• Design: 3/5

• Usability: 4/5

• Features: 3/5

Action1

Action1 is a cloud-native platform that offers automated patch management for up to 100 endpoints. It provides a simple, VPN-free setup, making it easy to deploy and manage. This makes Action1 an attractive option for small businesses and IT teams looking to manage a limited number of devices.

There is a steep learning curve for advanced features, and costs can increase significantly beyond 100 endpoints. Despite these challenges, Action1 offers a user-friendly and cost-effective solution for managing remote devices.

Pros:

• Free for 100 endpoints

• Simple, VPN-free setup

Cons:

• Steep learning curve for advanced features

• Costs increase beyond 100 endpoints

Price: Free for 100 endpoints, custom pricing beyond

Rating:

• Price: 5/5

• Design: 3/5

• Usability: 3/5

• Features: 4/5

N-central RMM

N-central RMM is designed for large-scale IT operations, offering advanced patch management and enhanced security with automation and scripting. It is ideal for large enterprises that require robust and scalable remote management solutions. The platform’s strong compatibility with popular tools makes it a versatile choice for managing extensive IT infrastructures.

The downside is its complex interface, which can be challenging to navigate, and the high cost, which may deter smaller teams. Despite these drawbacks, N-central RMM’s powerful features make it a top choice for large enterprises.

Pros:

• Ideal for large enterprises

• Strong compatibility with popular tools

Cons:

• Complex interface

• Expensive for smaller teams

Price: Available upon request

Rating:

• Price: 3/5

• Design: 3/5

• Usability: 3/5

• Features: 5/5

Snipe-IT

Snipe-IT is a free, open-source IT asset management solution that manages software licenses, accessories, and consumables. It offers no licensing costs and is highly customizable, making it suitable for various needs. This makes Snipe-IT an excellent choice for businesses looking for a cost-effective asset management solution.

It requires technical expertise for setup, and there is no dedicated support unless you opt for the paid version. Despite these challenges, Snipe-IT’s flexibility and cost-effectiveness make it a valuable tool for many organizations.

Pros:

• No licensing costs

• Highly customizable for different needs

Cons:

• Requires technical expertise for setup

• No dedicated support

Price: Free, with paid plans with more features

Rating:

• Price: 5/5

• Design: 3/5

• Usability: 3/5

• Features: 4/5

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and Remote Equipment Management

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) are the unsung heroes of the remote equipment management world. Think of them as the tech-savvy wizards who use their magic wands—aka remote equipment management software—to keep an eye on and manage their clients’ gear. They offer proactive maintenance and support, making sure everything runs smoother than a jazz saxophone solo. This wizardry not only boosts customer satisfaction and loyalty but also makes MSPs look like rock stars.

By harnessing the power of remote equipment management software, MSPs can keep a constant vigil and swoop in to fix issues faster than you can say "downtime." This not only amps up their own efficiency but also gives their clients the warm fuzzies, knowing their equipment is in expert hands. Plus, using this software helps MSPs cut costs and deliver top-notch service, making them the cool kids on the IT block.

Cloud-Based Remote Monitoring and Management

Cloud-based remote monitoring and management (RMM) is like having a superhero cape for your remote equipment management. By tapping into the cloud, this RMM approach offers a slew of benefits that would make any IT manager swoon:

Scalability: Cloud-based RMM solutions can grow with your organization, whether you’re managing a handful of devices or a small army. It’s like having a wardrobe that expands as you shop.

Flexibility: With cloud-based RMM, you can access your management tools from anywhere, anytime, using a variety of devices. It’s the ultimate in work-from-anywhere chic.

Cost-Effectiveness: By ditching the need for on-premise infrastructure, cloud-based RMM slashes costs and boosts your return on investment. Say goodbye to the expenses of maintaining physical servers and other hardware.

These perks make cloud-based RMM a no-brainer for businesses looking to up their remote equipment management game while keeping an eye on the bottom line.

Key Features to Look for in Remote Equipment Management Software

When picking out remote equipment management software, think of it like choosing the perfect pair of shoes: it’s got to fit just right. Ease of use is a biggie; you want something so intuitive that even your tech-challenged uncle could figure it out. This way, your team can manage equipment without needing a PhD in IT.

Scalability is another must-have. Your software should grow with your business, like a stretchy waistband after Thanksgiving dinner, accommodating more devices and users as you expand. Integration capabilities are also key; the software should play nice with your existing tools and systems. Datto RMM, for instance, is like the social butterfly of software, seamlessly integrating with various PSA tools to keep things running smoothly.

And let’s not forget security. Your software should be like Fort Knox, with features like two-factor authentication and immutable backups to keep your data safe. Automated patch management and built-in ransomware detection are also essential to fend off cyber nasties. By focusing on these key features, you’ll ensure your remote equipment management solution is as reliable as your favorite pair of jeans, helping to reduce downtime and keep everything running like a well-oiled machine.

How to Choose the Right Remote Equipment Management Solution

Picking the perfect remote equipment management solution is like finding the right pair of shoes—it's all about the fit. First, take a good look at your business operations and figure out what features are non-negotiable for your team. Need 24/7 support? Go for a solution like Datto that’s always on, like your favorite late-night diner.

Next, size up the vendors for reliability and customer support. You want a partner who’s got your back, not one who’ll ghost you at the first sign of trouble. Don’t forget to do a cost-benefit analysis to factor in all the expenses, from setup to maintenance. Think of it as budgeting for a vacation—better to know all the costs upfront than to be surprised by hidden fees.

And don’t be shy about taking demos for a spin. It’s like test-driving a car; you’ll get a feel for the user interface and see how well it meshes with your existing systems. Scalability is crucial for growing businesses, so opt for a solution like Datto RMM that can expand with you. Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to finding the remote equipment management solution that fits your organization like a glove.

Wrapping up

In summary, choosing the right remote equipment management software is crucial for maintaining efficiency and security in today’s increasingly remote work environment. From comprehensive asset tracking with Asset Panda to advanced IT endpoint management with Datto RMM, there are solutions tailored to meet various business needs. Each platform offers unique features, benefits, and potential drawbacks, so it’s important to carefully evaluate which one aligns best with your specific requirements.

By considering key features such as ease of use, scalability, integration capabilities, and robust security measures, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your business operations. As remote work continues to evolve, investing in the right tools will help your organization stay ahead of the curve and maintain operational efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does RMM software work?

RMM (Remote Monitoring and Management) software allows IT managers to monitor devices remotely, automate tasks, deploy updates, and ensure system health from a central dashboard.

What is the difference between RMM and traditional IT management software?

RMM software is all about remote management and monitoring, making IT support easier and more efficient, while traditional IT management software usually relies on on-site help. So, if you want to streamline your IT processes without always being tied to a desk, RMM is the way to go!

What are the benefits of using remote equipment management software?

Benefits include improved efficiency, reduced downtime, enhanced security, and streamlined workflows. It also allows for better asset tracking and management.

Can remote equipment management software help with compliance?

Absolutely! Remote equipment management software can streamline compliance by automating tracking and reporting, making it easier to stick to industry standards and regulations.

Is it possible to integrate remote equipment management software with other business tools?

Absolutely, you can integrate remote equipment management software with other business tools to boost efficiency and streamline your workflows. It's a great way to make everything work together smoothly!

How does remote equipment management software enhance security?

Remote equipment management software boosts security by offering automated patch management, built-in ransomware detection, two-factor authentication, and immutable backups to safeguard your sensitive data. It’s a smart way to keep your assets safe!

What factors should I consider when evaluating the cost of remote equipment management software?

When evaluating remote equipment management software, focus on total ownership costs like setup, maintenance, and any extra fees for added features. Doing a cost-benefit analysis will help you figure out the best bang for your buck.