When it comes to managing IT for a large business, choosing the right Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) tool is critical. Big businesses face unique challenges: complex IT infrastructures, diverse device fleets, multi-location setups, high-security requirements, and the need for extensive automation. The best RMM tools for large enterprises not only provide robust monitoring and management capabilities but also offer deep integration, scalability, and powerful automation to handle the heavy lifting. I’ve worked with several enterprise-level IT environments, and here’s what I’ve found to be the best RMM solutions for large businesses.
What Big Businesses Need in an RMM Tool
For a large business, the needs from an RMM tool go beyond basic monitoring and remote support. Here are the key features to look for:
- Scalability: Ability to manage thousands of endpoints across multiple locations without performance degradation.
- Advanced Automation: Automate repetitive tasks, patch management, software deployment, and more to reduce manual workloads.
- Multi-Tenancy Support: Separate management environments for different departments, locations, or business units.
- Extensive Integration Capabilities: Seamless integration with other tools, such as IT Service Management (ITSM), Professional Services Automation (PSA), security, backup, and compliance solutions.
- Robust Security Features: Endpoint detection and response (EDR), vulnerability management, role-based access control (RBAC), and compliance reporting.
- Customizable Monitoring and Reporting: Highly granular monitoring with customizable alerts and detailed reports for different stakeholders.
Top RMM Tools for Large Businesses
1. ConnectWise Automate
Why ConnectWise Automate is a Leader for Large Businesses: ConnectWise Automate (formerly LabTech) is known for its deep customization, scalability, and powerful automation capabilities. It’s a go-to choice for enterprises that need to manage complex IT environments with minimal manual effort.
Key Features:
- Advanced Automation and Scripting: Automate virtually any task, from patch management to routine maintenance, using an extensive scripting engine.
- Custom Monitoring and Alerts: Highly customizable monitoring and alerting options tailored to specific needs and environments.
- Multi-Tenancy and Scalability: Manage multiple sites, departments, or business units from a single platform without compromising performance.
- Seamless PSA Integration: Integrates smoothly with ConnectWise Manage for ticketing, billing, and client management, creating a full-service IT management platform.
- Role-Based Access Control: Granular control over user permissions to ensure security and compliance.
Best For: Large enterprises with complex, multi-location environments needing a highly customizable RMM tool with extensive automation and integration capabilities.
2. Kaseya VSA
Why Kaseya VSA is a Heavyweight for Big Enterprises: Kaseya VSA provides a comprehensive RMM solution with robust automation, remote control, and patch management capabilities. It is designed for scalability and is ideal for enterprises with large IT teams and complex IT infrastructure.
Key Features:
- Advanced Automation and Policy Management: Create and deploy IT management policies across thousands of devices with powerful automation tools.
- Unified IT Management: Centralized management of all devices and endpoints, including desktops, laptops, servers, and network devices.
- Integrated IT Documentation (IT Glue): Easily access IT documentation, network diagrams, and device configurations from within the platform.
- Comprehensive Patch Management: Automated patching for Windows, macOS, and third-party applications with detailed reporting.
- Multi-Tenancy and Role-Based Access: Manage multiple environments with customizable user roles for enhanced security.
Best For: Large IT teams needing a scalable, highly integrated RMM solution that can manage complex environments and provide deep automation capabilities.
3. Datto RMM
Why Datto RMM is a Strong Contender: Datto RMM is a cloud-based RMM platform designed with mobility, security, and scalability in mind. It offers robust patch management, automated monitoring, and security features, making it ideal for large enterprises with remote or dispersed IT environments.
Key Features:
- Cloud-Based Scalability: Fully cloud-based RMM solution, allowing management of thousands of endpoints without the need for on-premises infrastructure.
- Built-In Security: Integrated with Datto’s EDR and cybersecurity tools for enhanced endpoint protection.
- Automated Patch Management: Full support for automated patch management for operating systems and third-party applications.
- Custom Alerts and Reporting: Customizable alerts and reporting to keep different stakeholders informed about system health and performance.
- Lightweight Agent: Low resource usage to ensure minimal impact on device performance.
Best For: Enterprises looking for a cloud-based, highly secure RMM solution that is easy to scale and manage across multiple locations.
4. SolarWinds N-central
Why SolarWinds N-central is a Top Pick: SolarWinds N-central is designed specifically for MSPs and large IT departments managing complex environments. It offers a comprehensive set of features, including automation, patch management, and strong monitoring capabilities.
Key Features:
- Advanced Monitoring and Automation: Monitor network devices, servers, workstations, and mobile devices with customizable automation and alerting.
- Patch Management and Software Deployment: Automate patch management for Windows, macOS, and third-party software.
- Network Discovery and Monitoring: Real-time monitoring of network devices and endpoints, including SNMP-based devices.
- Integrated Security Features: Built-in antivirus, endpoint detection and response (EDR), and backup integration for comprehensive endpoint management.
- Multi-Tenancy and Role-Based Access: Support for multiple clients, sites, or business units with customized user roles and access controls.
Best For: Large IT teams or MSPs managing complex, multi-site environments that require deep automation, robust network monitoring, and security capabilities.
5. ManageEngine RMM Central
Why ManageEngine is a Versatile Choice for Enterprises: ManageEngine RMM Central provides a full-featured RMM solution with strong patch management, remote access, and IT asset management capabilities. It’s particularly well-suited for enterprises that need comprehensive endpoint management and compliance tools.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Patch Management: Automated patching for Windows, macOS, Linux, and third-party applications.
- Remote Control and Troubleshooting: Secure remote access and troubleshooting tools for distributed teams.
- IT Asset Management: Manage hardware and software assets across multiple sites with detailed inventory reports.
- Compliance and Security Management: Tools for vulnerability management, software deployment, and compliance reporting.
- Customizable Alerts and Reports: Generate detailed reports and set alerts for different IT activities and updates.
Best For: Enterprises needing a versatile RMM solution with strong patch management, asset management, and compliance tools.
Quick Comparison of the Best RMM Tools for Large Businesses
| RMM Tool | Best For | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| ConnectWise Automate | Complex, multi-location environments needing customization | Advanced automation, deep PSA integration, robust monitoring |
| Kaseya VSA | Large IT teams with complex infrastructure | Unified IT management, advanced automation, comprehensive patch management |
| Datto RMM | Cloud-first enterprises focusing on security and mobility | Cloud-based management, integrated EDR, scalable solution |
| SolarWinds N-central | Large IT departments or MSPs needing deep network monitoring | Extensive monitoring, automation, security integration |
| ManageEngine RMM Central | Enterprises needing comprehensive endpoint and asset management | Strong patching, compliance tools, IT asset management |
Conclusion
Choosing the best RMM tool for a large business depends on your specific needs, existing IT environment, and long-term goals. ConnectWise Automate and Kaseya VSA offer deep customization and powerful automation capabilities, making them ideal for large, complex environments. Datto RMM is a solid choice for cloud-based environments with a focus on security and scalability. SolarWinds N-central provides robust network monitoring and security integration, while ManageEngine RMM Central is a great option for those needing comprehensive asset management and compliance tools.
It’s essential to consider free trials and demos to determine which RMM tool fits best with your enterprise’s needs. The right RMM can significantly reduce IT workload, improve security, and enhance overall IT service delivery, making it a critical investment for any large business.