When you’re evaluating Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) tools, N-able N-central and N-able RMM (formerly SolarWinds RMM) often come up as top contenders. Both are powerful solutions developed by the same company, N-able, but they cater to different needs and use cases. If you’re trying to decide which one is the right fit for your MSP (Managed Service Provider) or IT department, it’s crucial to understand their key differences and unique strengths. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.
N-able N-central vs. N-able RMM: Detailed Breakdown
1. Target Audience and Use Cases
N-able N-central:
N-central is designed for larger MSPs and IT departments that need deep customization and granular control over their managed environments. It’s highly scalable and built to handle complex network infrastructures with extensive automation and configuration options. If you’re managing thousands of endpoints or need to monitor sophisticated network setups, N-central offers a robust platform.
N-able RMM:
N-able RMM, on the other hand, is aimed at small to medium-sized MSPs that need a simple, easy-to-deploy solution with a focus on speed and efficiency. It’s more streamlined and has a lower barrier to entry, making it perfect for MSPs that want to get started quickly without a steep learning curve. If you’re looking for a straightforward tool that covers the basics well and allows you to scale up without much hassle, N-able RMM is a great choice.
2. Ease of Use and User Interface
N-able N-central:
N-central has a more complex and powerful interface, which comes with both pros and cons. It allows for deep customization, but this can make the learning curve steeper for newcomers. The platform is built to offer extensive functionality, so it can take some time to master its full capabilities. However, once you get the hang of it, N-central provides a level of control that can be hard to find elsewhere.
N-able RMM:
RMM has a more modern, user-friendly interface that is easier to navigate, particularly for those new to RMM tools. It’s designed to be intuitive, with a focus on simplicity and rapid deployment. The dashboard is clean, and most tasks can be completed with just a few clicks, which is ideal for smaller teams or those who want to get up and running quickly.
3. Features and Capabilities
Both N-central and RMM offer a wide range of features, but they cater to different needs:
| Feature | N-able N-central | N-able RMM |
|---|---|---|
| Patch Management | Highly customizable with in-depth policy creation and automation options. | Simplified patch management with easy setup and management, but less depth. |
| Automation and Scripting | Advanced automation with support for complex scripts and granular task scheduling. | Focuses on ease of use with a library of pre-built scripts and basic automation. |
| Monitoring and Alerts | Extremely detailed monitoring and alert customization options. | Strong monitoring capabilities, but with fewer customization options than N-central. |
| Remote Access | Integrated remote control with several built-in options like Take Control. | Comes with integrated remote access powered by TeamViewer or Take Control. |
| Reporting | Comprehensive, highly customizable reporting and dashboards for in-depth insights. | Straightforward reporting tools that are easy to use but less customizable. |
4. Security Features
Both tools provide strong security features, but there are differences in their approach and capabilities.
- N-able N-central: Offers a range of advanced security features, including role-based access control (RBAC), two-factor authentication (2FA), and comprehensive auditing and logging. The depth of its security configurations makes it suitable for MSPs managing highly sensitive environments. It also integrates well with security tools like EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response), Web Protection, and AV Defender.
- N-able RMM: Also provides 2FA, encryption, and basic security management features. It is generally easier to set up from a security perspective due to its simplified interface. It includes integrated antivirus and endpoint detection with tools like Emsisoft, Bitdefender, and Webroot, but it lacks some of the deeper security configuration options found in N-central.
5. Integration and Ecosystem
The tools you already use will influence your decision between N-central and RMM.
- N-able N-central: Has an extensive list of integrations, not only within the N-able ecosystem (like Passportal, Backup, and Mail Assure) but also with third-party tools such as ConnectWise, Autotask, and IT Glue. This makes it a versatile choice for larger MSPs with more complex needs.
- N-able RMM: Offers robust integration options as well, particularly with PSA (Professional Services Automation) tools like ConnectWise Manage and Autotask PSA. The integrations are generally easier to set up than in N-central, making it a more straightforward option for smaller MSPs or IT departments.
6. Support and Community
Support quality can significantly impact your experience with any RMM tool.
- N-able N-central: Offers strong support, but due to the complexity of the platform, you may find yourself relying on professional services or dedicated training to get the most out of it. There is a large community and plenty of resources, such as knowledge bases, webinars, and forums, but it’s geared more toward advanced users.
- N-able RMM: Known for its responsive and helpful support team, N-able RMM provides a more streamlined support experience. The community is active, and there are plenty of resources to help new users get started quickly. N-able also offers excellent onboarding and training for new customers.
7. Pricing and Licensing
Pricing is always a crucial consideration, especially when scaling up your operations.
- N-able N-central: Pricing can be more complex due to the extensive customization options and the need for additional modules or add-ons. The cost is generally higher, especially as you add more endpoints or advanced features, but it is often justified by the level of control and scalability offered.
- N-able RMM: Offers a more straightforward pricing model, often based on a per-device or per-technician basis. It’s typically more affordable than N-central, especially for small to medium-sized MSPs that don’t require the advanced features that N-central provides.
8. Pros and Cons Recap
N-able N-central Pros:
- Highly scalable with extensive customization and automation.
- Advanced monitoring, alerting, and security options.
- Wide range of integrations and comprehensive reporting capabilities.
N-able N-central Cons:
- Steeper learning curve and more complex to set up and manage.
- Higher cost and potential need for professional services or dedicated training.
N-able RMM Pros:
- User-friendly interface with quick setup and deployment.
- Excellent for small to medium-sized MSPs with less complex needs.
- Lower cost and straightforward pricing model.
N-able RMM Cons:
- Less customizable and flexible than N-central.
- May lack some of the advanced features needed for larger, more complex environments.
9. Conclusion: Which Tool Should You Choose?
Choosing between N-able N-central and N-able RMM depends on your specific needs, the size of your operation, and the complexity of your managed environments:
- Choose N-able N-central if you need a highly scalable, customizable RMM tool capable of managing large, complex environments with deep automation, monitoring, and security capabilities.
- Go with N-able RMM if you prefer a simpler, more user-friendly RMM solution that is easy to set up, ideal for small to medium-sized MSPs, and offers a lower cost of entry.
Both tools are excellent options within their target markets, but understanding their unique strengths and weaknesses will help you make the best choice for your MSP or IT department.