What is remote device management?
Remote management entails the processes involved in setting up and maintaining Windows PCs across locations through a central admin console window. While remote computer management is commonly associated with a distributed team, the same techniques also work for in-office and hybrid settings.
Effective remote device management may include the following components:
Inventorying hardware devices
Installing, configuring, and updating software
Monitoring system performance
Managing accounts
Securing managed devices
Troubleshooting device issues
Must-have remote device management features
Managing devices remotely is much easier with convenient key features. The PDQ suite simplifies common tasks while also giving you the flexibility to perform more niche actions on enrolled devices.
Automation
Automating routine tasks improves efficiency and consistency. Not only does your environment benefit, but you get time back in your day.
Automated deployments
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.
Offline queuing
Feel like deploying when multiple devices are offline? You do you. PDQ Connect queues any failed deployments to retry when the PC comes back online.
Dynamic device groups
Automatically organize devices based on your set criteria, keeping each group neat and tidy even in changing environments. Filter based on installed application, app version, OS version, and more.
Customization
When you know how things need to be, a one-size-fits-all solution just doesn’t cut it. The PDQ suite gives you the flexibility to cater to your unique environment.
Custom automations
Automate deployments based on your trigger of choice.
Custom packages
Build your own multistep packages, like installing an MSI or running a PowerShell script, to meet your unique needs.
Blazing speed
Waiting to collect data or complete a long list of deployments drains the life out of you almost as fast as watching a YouTube compilation of Jar Jar Binks’s greatest moments. (Operative word here: “Almost.”) Knock out tasks quickly so that you can move on with your day.
Rapid deployment
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.
PowerShell commands
Take fast action by executing PowerShell commands directly on a device without deploying a package. Troubleshoot, gather information, and implement fixes quickly.
Next-level convenience
We want something in a sysadmin’s daily life to be easy, so we make our solutions simple and straightforward.


Prebuilt packages
Install or update software quickly with ready-to-deploy packages. Your boss will think you put in much more work than you actually did.
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.
Silent deployment
Install packages silently. Greater scalability + less chaos = true happiness.
PDQ Connect vs. leading remote device management competitors
PDQ Connect’s remote device management | Leading competitors | |
---|---|---|
Detailed inventory | ||
Device grouping | ||
Custom package creation | ||
Deployment automation | ||
Real-time data | ||
Fast response time | ||
Extensive Package Library | ||
Speedy, skillful remote support | ||
Extensive Knowledge Base | ||
Budget-friendly pricing |
Remote device management FAQs
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:
Greater efficiency
More accurate budgeting
Enhanced device security
Superior visibility
Easier troubleshooting
Simple scalability
How do you incorporate remote device management?
Planning your remote 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 device 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 management program that fits your needs.
What are 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
Automate routine tasks
Update software regularly
Prioritize data security
By following these best practices, you can maintain remote control and visibility over each managed device, even those that are never on-site.
How do you choose the right remote device management software?
To choose the right remote Windows 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
Cybersecurity needs
Customer reviews
A device management solution is the easiest way to maintain remote 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.
How does remote device management differ from on-prem management?
Remote and on-prem solutions differ in how they reach the end user. Remote device management solutions typically use an agent-based approach, giving a sysadmin visibility into real-time device data whenever remote machines are online. In contrast, on-prem solutions often use an agentless approach. That means users must connect to the local network or a VPN for sysadmins to manage their machines.