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Remote device management

With more and more users working remotely, managing corporate devices becomes exponentially more difficult. Devices are hard to reach if they don’t regularly connect to your LAN or VPN. And without regular check-ins, you won’t have a clear idea of your hardware inventory, patching status, usage, and other individual device data essential to full visibility and overall endpoint security.

A remote device management solution for Microsoft Windows PCs empowers IT teams to set up, manage, monitor, and update machines from a central location. Whether the end user is across the room or the globe, you can maintain remote control over your device fleet.

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Man typing on desktop computer

What is remote device management?

Remote device management entails all the processes involved in setting up and maintaining Windows PCs across locations through a central admin console window. It may include inventorying hardware devices; installing, configuring, and updating software; monitoring system performance; managing accounts; securing managed devices; and troubleshooting issues.

While remote computer management is commonly associated with a distributed team, the same techniques also work for in-office and hybrid settings. However, with over 50% of U.S. employees working remotely at least occasionally, chances are a remote device management approach will give you greater oversight of those hard-to-reach machines.

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Must-have remote device management features

Managing devices remotely is much easier with convenient key features. The ideal solution simplifies common tasks while also giving you the flexibility to perform more niche actions on enrolled devices.  

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Agent-based, cloud-hosted administration

Manage any Windows PC with an agent installed — wherever and whenever it’s online.

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Easy interface

Start managing remote Windows PCs right out of the gate. Without a steep learning curve, you can hone the skills you need as you need them.

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Blazing speed

Complete tasks quickly. Without waiting for long, queued deployments, you can transform your to-do list into the world’s most aerodynamic paper plane that much sooner.

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Real-time inventory data

Access up-to-the-minute information on online status, apps, last deployment, operating system version, device manufacturer, and more.

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Custom device groups

Filter based on installed application, app version, OS version, and more. Dynamic groups stay up to date based on your set criteria, automatically organizing devices — even in changing environments.

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Corporate data security

Leverage two-factor authentication and data encryption for secure Windows device management.

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Silent deployment

Install packages silently. Greater scalability + less chaos = true happiness.

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Prebuilt and custom packages

Install or update software quickly with ready-to-deploy packages, or build your own packages to meet your unique needs.

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Offline queuing

Feel like deploying when multiple devices are offline? You do you. A remote Windows device management solution queues any failed deployments to retry when the PC comes back online.

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Easy automation

Manual installations are a never-ending game of whack-a-mole. Automate deployments to targeted devices or groups based on your selected triggers to finally get that win.

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Embedded PowerShell editor

Write commands and scripts for custom packages. Syntax highlighting and line numbering help you along the way.

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Skilled support

With a team of expert sysadmins at the ready to answer your questions, you never have to worry about insurmountable hurdles popping up.

What are the benefits of remote device management?

Remote Windows device management empowers IT teams to manage machines at distant locales just as easily as those across the room. It’s probably as close as you’ll ever get to traveling through the multiverse. Here are just a few possible advantages:

  • Effortless device setup  

  • Greater efficiency 

  • More accurate budgeting 

  • Enhanced security

  • Superior visibility 

  • Easier troubleshooting 

  • Simple scalability

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What are the benefits of remote device management? What are the benefits of remote device management? What are the benefits of remote device management?

PDQ Connect vs. leading competitors

PDQ Connect’s remote device management

Leading competitors

Detailed inventory

yes

yes

Device grouping

yes

yes

Real-time data

yes

no

Speedy and responsive

yes

no

Extensive Package Library

yes

no

PowerShell editor

yes

no

Speedy, skillful support

yes

no

Extensive Knowledge Base

yes

no

Budget-friendly pricing

yes

no

How do you incorporate remote device management?

Planning your remote device management approach upfront sets you up for success. These steps can help you better understand your environment and determine precisely what you need to accomplish.

  • Determine how many remote Windows PCs are in your fleet 

  • Set your budget 

  • Assess existing processes 

  • Establish what specific tasks you need to perform remotely

  • Find a solution to simplify common tasks 

  • Update documentation (including your security policy) to reflect any changes

Every environment is unique, so there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Understanding your fleet and goals can help you set up a remote device management program that fits your needs.

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How to IncorporateHow to IncorporateHow to Incorporate

Remote device management best practices

Using remote device management best practices can help you enhance security and improve visibility with less effort. Keep these tips in mind:

  • Designate who oversees remote device management  

  • Choose a solution that fits your business needs 

  • Inventory assets 

  • Use filters to organize devices into groups 

  • Automate routine tasks 

  • Leverage PowerShell to run scripts and commands

  • Update software regularly 

  • Prioritize security  

  • Establish standards for working in public spaces and using public Wi-Fi 

  • Determine your processes for testing updates before widespread distribution 

  • Consider incorporating a mobile device management (MDM) solution, like SimpleMDM

By following these best practices, you can maintain visibility into and control over each managed device, even those that are never on-site.

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How do you choose the right remote device management solution?

To choose the right remote device management solution, assess your environment, needs, goals, and options. Consider these factors when looking at software:  

  • Functionality 

  • Ease of use 

  • Compatible devices (Windows devices, Apple devices)  

  • Cost 

  • Relevant stakeholders

  • Current processes  

  • Existing assets  

  • Relevant policies 

  • Cybersecurity needs 

  • Customer reviews

A device management solution is the easiest way to maintain access to off-premises machines. When you find an option that could work for your environment, sign up for a trial or schedule a demo to see the level of control it gives you over each connected device.

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