Best desktop management software: Look after your endpoints

A desktop is also known as a workstation or an endpoint, curiously, some include mobile devices in the definition. Find out how to look after your IT equipment.

Desktop management software is a suite of tools designed to streamline the management and maintenance of desktop computers within an organization. This software simplifies various administrative tasks such as installing and updating software, patch management, remote troubleshooting, inventory management, security enforcement, and monitoring system performance.

By automating routine tasks and providing centralized control, desktop management software helps IT teams ensure that all desktops are secure, up-to-date, and running efficiently. This not only enhances productivity but also reduces the risk of security breaches and system downtime.

Here is our list of the best desktop management software:

1. NinjaOne RMM (EDITOR’S CHOICE): This cloud-based SaaS RMM tool provides automation, remote access, and patch management for comprehensive endpoint protection. It offers role-based consoles, extensive integrations, and strong security features, making it ideal for MSPs and IT teams. Get a 14-day free trial.
2. Atera (FREE TRIAL): A cloud-hosted RMM platform combining helpdesk, ticketing, and automation, powered by Action AI for efficient IT management. Available for a 30-day free trial.
3. ManageEngine Endpoint Central (FREE TRIAL): A Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) tool for managing and monitoring servers, desktops, laptops, and mobile devices. Delivered as a SaaS platform or software for Windows Server. Get a 30-day free trial.
4. Omnissa Workspace ONE: A cloud-hosted UEM solution for managing mobile, desktop, and cloud environments from a single console. It has solutions for managing BYOD and roaming company devices. 
5. N-able N-sight: This RMM tool offers remote monitoring, automation, and patch management for MSPs. It manages devices running Windows, macOS, and Linux from its cloud platform.
6. SuperOps RMM: A unified PSA and RMM platform with AI-based alerting, automating monitoring, and management tasks for computers running Windows. Delivered from the cloud.
7. ConnectWise Automate: A cloud-based automation platform for remote management, patching, and scripting on endpoints running Windows, Linux, or macOS.

The best desktop management software

The majority of the tools on this list will monitor office-based computers, however, we have also included some packages that are unified endpoint management (UEM) systems that will also watch over mobile devices.

Our methodology for selecting desktop management software

We reviewed the market for desktop management software and analyzed the options based on the following criteria:

• The charge rate for the software should be based on a factor such as the number of technicians or client sites, and buyers should be able to increase their orders as they grow.
• An intuitive interface that simplifies complex tasks, preferably with role-based dashboards.
• The software should seamlessly integrate with your existing IT infrastructure and other tools.
• Strong security measures, such as encryption and multi-factor authentication, are essential to protect sensitive data.
• Tools with automation capabilities to reduce manual tasks and enhance efficiency.
• Reliable customer support and comprehensive training resources are vital for troubleshooting and optimizing the software.
• Consider the total cost of ownership, including licensing fees, maintenance, and potential hidden costs.

1. NinjaOne RMM (EDITOR’S CHOICE)

NinjaOne RMM is a cloud-based remote monitoring and management platform designed to simplify IT operations. This package provides IT professionals with an easy-to-use, intuitive interface to manage endpoints, automate tasks, and ensure secure remote support. With strong automation capabilities and integration options, NinjaOne RMM helps reduce manual tasks while improving efficiency.

Key features:

• Remote monitoring and management (RMM): Looks after on-premises endpoints.
• Patch management: For Windows, Linux, and macOS plus the software that runs on them.
• Backup and disaster recovery: An optional extra.
• Integrated Help Desk ticketing system: Provides task and team management.
• Real-time endpoint visibility and control: Automated monitoring.

Why do we recommend it? 

NinjaOne RMM excels in ease of use and automation, offering IT teams an intuitive interface to simplify endpoint management and increase operational efficiency. The features of the package cover every aspect of desktop management, including security for software and data and constant automated monitoring and maintenance. 

I found that the NinjaOne platform stands out for its simplicity, making it easy for both small and large IT teams to manage their infrastructure. The integrated backup and disaster recovery features add a layer of reliability, ensuring critical data protection. Its straightforward design is ideal for IT professionals who need a no-nonsense solution.

Who is it recommended for? 

This platform is for IT managers and teams looking for an easy-to-deploy, cloud-based RMM solution with strong automation capabilities. The system is hosted on the cloud and will set itself up through scanning for hardware. The installation process involves downloading agents onto all endpoints.  

NinjaOne RMM supports Windows, Mac, and Linux systems. A 14-day free trial is available, making it easy for potential users to test the platform before committing. 

EDITOR’S CHOICE

NinjaOne RMM is our top pick for a desktop management software package because this tool was designed to enhance IT operations for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and IT teams. It offers comprehensive automation, remote access, and patch management features, ensuring reliable endpoint protection.

The platform's user-friendly interface simplifies navigation, while its extensive integrations and strong security measures provide a secure and efficient management experience. NinjaOne's customizable scripts and detailed reporting capabilities further support IT teams in maintaining and securing their infrastructure. The tool also includes remote control and monitoring, allowing IT professionals to troubleshoot issues without disrupting end-users.

NinjaOne's commitment to continuous improvement and regular updates ensures that the platform evolves with changing technological needs. This system’s scalability and flexibility make it an ideal choice for growing organizations. It is a reliable and effective desktop management software package for MSPs and IT departments.

Get a 14-day free trial.

Operating system: Cloud based.

2. Atera (FREE TRIAL)

Atera is an all-in-one IT management platform that combines remote monitoring, patch management, and ticketing into a single cloud-based tool. It is designed to help MSPs and IT professionals monitor devices, troubleshoot issues, and manage client networks from anywhere. Atera is known for its simplicity and ease of use.

Key features:

• All-in-one package: Integrated RMM, PSA, and helpdesk functionality.
• Automated patch management: For Windows and macOS.
• Network discovery: Creates a system inventory.
• Real-time alerts: Triggers can be customized.

Why do we recommend it? 

Atera is evolving all the time, adding new features regularly. The cloud-based system provides a range of plans that progressively add more features for higher-priced editions. The system is able to manage endpoints running Windows, macOS, and Linux, including patch management and remote access. Atera recently integrated an AI assistant into its ticket management system.

I noted that this platform offers a flexible, all-in-one solution that is especially attractive to smaller businesses and solo IT professionals. The software integrates RMM, PSA, and helpdesk functionalities into one system, allowing seamless operations without switching between tools. The pay-per-technician model offers predictable pricing and excellent value for small teams.

Who is it recommended for? 

Atera is ideal for smaller MSPs and IT service providers who need an all-in-one solution for RMM, PSA, and helpdesk functionality, especially those with limited budgets. The pricing for the editions is levied per technician with no minimum seat requirement, so even a single-technician support operation gets all the facilities that are made available to Atera’s big clients. 

Atera supports Windows macOS and Linux devices, and the cloud-based setup ensures easy deployment. A 30-day free trial is available for new users.

3. ManageEngine Endpoint Central

ManageEngine Endpoint Central (formerly Desktop Central) is a unified endpoint management platform that offers comprehensive control over desktops, laptops, servers, and mobile devices. It allows IT teams to automate patch management, deploy software, and manage assets from a central console, streamlining operations across large and distributed environments.

Key features:

• Unified endpoint management: For desktops, servers, and mobile devices.
• Patch management: Also manages software deployment.
• Asset and inventory management: Discovers and documents all endpoints.

Why do we recommend it? 

ManageEngine Endpoint Central offers comprehensive management for all types of endpoints, making it a go-to solution for large enterprises with diverse device ecosystems. The package is able to manage on-premises computers running Windows, macOS, and Linux and mobile devices running iOS and Android. 

I learned that this tool is highly versatile and ideal for companies managing a wide range of devices, including mobile devices. The automated patch management, along with strong compliance and security features, ensures that IT environments are secure and well-maintained. Its asset management capabilities make it easy to keep track of all hardware and software inventory.

Who is it recommended for? 

Endpoint Central is designed for use by enterprises to manage their fleet devices and the BYOD systems that guests and employees bring into the company’s premises. ManageEngine produces Endpoint Central MSP for managed service providers. MSPs should also look at ManageEngine RMM Central. Small businesses will be interested in the Free edition, which will manage 25 endpoints. 

ManageEngine Endpoint Central supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. It offers a free edition for up to 25 devices, with a 30-day free trial for larger setups. The system is available as a SaaS platform on the cloud or as a software package for Windows Server.

4. Omnissa Workspace ONE

Omnissa Workspace ONE is a comprehensive digital workspace platform that integrates endpoint management with identity and application management. Designed to provide seamless access to any application across devices, it emphasizes secure, efficient workflows and offers robust mobile device management (MDM) for enterprise environments. Until recently, this system was a VMware product, but the division that owns it was spun out into a separate company, called Omnissa in July 2024.

Key features:

• Unified endpoint management (UEM): Covers mobile and desktop devices.
• Identity and access management (IAM): Provides an authentication portal that lists the services that the user is allowed to access.
• Application delivery and lifecycle management: Provides a virtual desktop.

Why do we recommend it? 

Workspace ONE is notable for its integration of identity management with endpoint management. This creates a seamless experience for users across multiple devices while maintaining enterprise-level security. The strategy used here is known as “Zero Trust” and it is being adopted by many system security providers.

I discovered that this system is designed for businesses that prioritize both user experience and security. Its unified management of mobile and desktop environments ensures that employees can access their work seamlessly, regardless of the device, while IT teams can enforce security policies and maintain compliance with ease.

Who is it recommended for? 

This system will suit large organizations with a mobile-first approach or those managing a distributed workforce, where unified management of all endpoints and applications is essential. The system is a particularly good fit for businesses that have employees working from home and others in the offices. It is also a good choice for companies that provide applications that are delivered from the cloud as well as systems that are hosted on-premises.

Omnissa Workspace ONE supports Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. While the tool had a free trial while it was under the VMware brand, this is no longer available.

5. N-able N-sight

N-able N-sight is a cloud-based remote monitoring and management (RMM) tool designed for small and medium-sized businesses and managed service providers. With a focus on simplicity and cost-effectiveness, it offers basic remote support, monitoring, and patch management capabilities.

Key features:

• Remote monitoring and management: Includes an integrated ticketing system.
• Automated maintenance workflows: Includes patch management.
• Built-in ticketing: Manages team throughput and task completion goals.

Why do we recommend it? 

N-able N-sight is an affordable and user-friendly RMM solution, designed to help smaller teams manage IT infrastructure with minimal complexity. The N-able platform includes a range of extra services that can be added to the N-sight package, such as data backup, endpoint security, and email protection.

I observed that N-able N-sight is built for ease of use, focusing on providing essential RMM features without overwhelming IT teams. Its simplicity allows small MSPs to monitor, patch, and troubleshoot endpoints without needing advanced technical knowledge. The ticketing integration helps manage support workflows seamlessly.

Who is it recommended for? 

This package is specifically designed for MSPs. It has a multi-tenant architecture that enables the MSP to keep the data for its clients separated into subaccounts. The platform looks after computers running Windows and macOS and it includes automated patch management in its system management tools. It enables each technician to look after 100 endpoints. 

N-able N-sight supports Windows and macOS from its cloud location; an add-on, called Cloud Management, will extend the system to cloud applications, such as Microsoft 365. You can get a 14-day free trial to test the system without having to pay. 

6. SuperOps RMM

SuperOps RMM is a modern remote monitoring and management platform aimed at MSPs and IT service providers. It focuses on ease of use, combining monitoring, patch management, and automation in a cloud-based solution. SuperOps implements AI-driven automation capabilities and provides a modern user interface.

Key features:

• AI-driven automation: Also AI-based task management.
• Integrated ticketing and PSA: The exact contents of your package depend on which plan you choose.
• Real-time remote monitoring: Monitor multiple sites simultaneously.

Why do we recommend it?

SuperOps RMM brings AI-driven automation to endpoint management, making it highly efficient for IT teams looking to streamline processes and reduce manual intervention. The RMM package doesn’t include a ticketing system – buyers will have to go for the PSA and RMM combination plan for that. 

I noticed that this cloud platform combines cutting-edge automation features with a user-friendly interface. The AI capabilities make it easier to automate routine tasks, helping MSPs manage endpoints more effectively. The built-in ticketing and workflow customization offer flexibility, allowing IT teams to fine-tune processes to fit their specific needs.

Who is it recommended for? 

MSPs and IT service providers who require a modern RMM solution with AI-driven automation to simplify their workflow and enhance operational efficiency. The plans for the platform offer options for PSA, RMM, or both. This makes the system suitable for managed service providers, who will go for the combined package, and for IT departments, who will prefer the RMM-only plan. 

SuperOps RMM manages devices running Windows, Linux, and macOS. A 14-day free trial is available, giving users enough time to explore its AI-driven features and determine if it suits their business needs.

7. ConnectWise Automate

ConnectWise Automate is a comprehensive remote monitoring and management platform designed for large MSPs and IT teams. It offers advanced automation, remote support, and monitoring capabilities, empowering IT professionals to manage and troubleshoot devices at scale. Its comprehensive automation makes it a powerful tool for reducing manual intervention.

Key features:

• Advanced remote automated device management: Provides a library of scripts.
• Software management: Deployment and patching. 
• Full stack monitoring: Includes network management and monitoring.

Why do we recommend it? 

ConnectWise Automate is highly customizable and excels in automation, making it an ideal choice for IT teams needing to manage large environments with complex workflows. A major factor in this recommendation is the power of the ConnectWise brand. The company has been in business since 1982 and has built extensive expertise in the field of producing IT management software. 

I found that this cloud platform stresses automation and it provides a large library of task automation scripts that enable endpoint maintenance duties to be run regularly without manual intervention. It is also possible to create scripts and plug them into the Automate scheduler. 

Who is it recommended for? 

ConnectWise Automate is designed for large IT teams and MSPs with complex environments. It provides a multi-tenant architecture, which enables MSPs to create subaccounts to keep the data of their clients separate. The system is cloud-based, so it can be accessed from anywhere through any standard Web browser. 

ConnectWise Automate supports Windows, macOS, and Linux environments. You can assess this system with a 7-day free trial.