What is RMM software?

RMM stands for remote monitoring and management. RMM software lets an IT team look after every computer and server in an organization from one place: see which machines are healthy, get onto any of them remotely, keep them patched, install software, and fix common problems automatically, without walking to each desk.

How RMM software works

Almost every RMM tool works the same way at its core:

1. An agent on each computer. A small background service is installed once on each Windows, macOS or Linux machine. It reports health and inventory and carries out instructions.
2. A central console. Technicians use a web console (or a desktop app) to see every enrolled machine and send it work.
3. Policies and automation. Instead of clicking through machines one by one, you set rules, such as "install security updates on Saturday at 2 AM" or "if the disk is over 90% full, clean temp files", and the agents carry them out.

What RMM software does

Who uses RMM software

• Internal IT departments use RMM to support employees across offices and home workers.
• Managed service providers (MSPs) use it to look after many client companies from one console, often alongside a PSA (professional services automation) tool for tickets and billing.
• Small businesses with one IT person use it to stay on top of updates and fix problems without visiting each computer.

RMM vs remote desktop tools

A remote desktop tool lets you see and control a screen. RMM includes remote access but adds the parts that prevent the call in the first place: patching, monitoring, alerts, automation and reporting. If you only need occasional screen sharing, a remote desktop tool may be enough. If you're responsible for keeping a fleet secure and up to date, you need RMM.

RMM vs PSA

RMM manages the machines. A PSA manages the work and the money: tickets, time tracking, contracts and invoices. Many teams use both, and some products combine them. Read RMM vs PSA for the difference in detail.

What to look for when choosing RMM software

• Operating systems. Make sure Windows, macOS and Linux are all covered if your fleet is mixed.
• Pricing model. RMM is priced per device, per technician, or both. The cheaper model depends on how many computers each technician manages. See RMM pricing explained.
• Remote access built in. Some tools bundle a third-party remote desktop with session limits; others include their own.
• Third-party patching. Browsers, PDF readers and runtimes are a common way in for attackers.
• Automation depth. Look for conditions, actions, waits and checks, not just scheduled scripts.
• Reporting. You'll eventually need to prove patch and security status to someone.

We cover these in more depth in how to choose RMM software.

Where Optanik fits

Optanik is RMM software for Windows, Linux and macOS that runs in the browser. It includes unattended remote control, OS and third-party patching, software deployment, automation with 162 playbooks, reports, and a private overlay network. It's free on one machine and $2 per endpoint per month after that, with technicians never billed.