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.
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.
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.
Agent-based, cloud-hosted administration
Manage any Windows PC with an agent installed — wherever and whenever it’s online.
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.
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.
Real-time inventory data
Access up-to-the-minute information on online status, apps, last deployment, operating system version, device manufacturer, and more.
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.
Corporate data security
Leverage two-factor authentication and data encryption for secure Windows device management.
Silent deployment
Install packages silently. Greater scalability + less chaos = true happiness.
Prebuilt and custom packages
Install or update software quickly with ready-to-deploy packages, or build your own packages to meet your unique needs.
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.
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.
Embedded PowerShell editor
Write commands and scripts for custom packages. Syntax highlighting and line numbering help you along the way.
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
PDQ Connect vs. leading competitors
PDQ Connect’s remote device management | Leading competitors | |
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Detailed inventory |
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Device grouping |
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Real-time data |
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Speedy and responsive |
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Extensive Package Library |
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PowerShell editor |
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Speedy, skillful support |
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Extensive Knowledge Base |
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Budget-friendly pricing |
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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.
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.
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.
