11 Best Desktop Manager Software in 2025

In a tightly interconnected network such as that of an organization’s IT environment, it only takes one compromised endpoint to send the whole thing crashing down. This is why it’s more important than ever to keep track of all your endpoints and to keep them updated, well maintained, and secure. For this reason, desktop monitoring and management is a crucial process for managed service providers (MSPs) and IT administrators alike.

In this article, we’ll review the best desktop manager software available in 2025 as well as discuss their respective features, shortcomings, and user ratings on G2 and Capterra—with the goal to provide you with relevant insights on your journey to choose the most fitting desktop management solution for your business.

The best desktop manager software at a glance

What is desktop manager software?

To start, the process of desktop management involves monitoring, maintaining, and securing all devices in your organization’s network. Apart from desktop computers—as the term “desktop management” implies—these devices include laptops, mobile phones, tablets, servers, and so on, all connected to the same IT infrastructure.

With this in mind, desktop manager software is a tool used by IT administrators to keep all these endpoints in check, usually through a centralized, cloud-based dashboard and agents installed on the devices. The capabilities of this type of software can range from the specific (e.g., patch management software) to the comprehensive (e.g., unified endpoint management or UEM), depending on your organization’s needs.

Why desktop manager software?

Using desktop manager software to oversee the conditions and needs of your business’s overall IT network can yield several benefits, including the following:

• A centralized view. As mentioned earlier, this tool provides a holistic view of your network—and all its endpoints—through a centralized dashboard, so you don’t have to switch between windows to update one device and install software on another.
• More efficient issue resolution. In relation to the first point, desktop management software makes it so that you can quickly detect and address issues on your endpoints regardless of time or location.
• Tighter security. The ease of remotely managing devices using this software means that any vulnerabilities in your devices can be immediately spotted and any direct security threats eliminated. Part of this step involves making sure all devices—along with the software installed on them—are fully up to date.
• Increased efficiency and convenience. Ultimately, using desktop manager software boosts productivity for IT admins and efficiency for the whole business. This is especially the case when the platform is built to scale with the organization’s growing IT network and business needs.

Before you choose desktop manager software for your business

As you peruse this article’s list of desktop manager software contenders and compare them to one another, remember to take your organization’s needs and budget into consideration. No two businesses are alike; what works for you may not work for another business in your industry—or even another industry entirely.

In addition, with several desktop management platforms on the market today, it’s incredibly risky—and costly—to assume a “one size fits all” strategy in your selection process. Carefully research your options, conduct a vendor risk assessment if needed, and especially consult vendors who offer free demos and/or trials of their software.

11 best desktop manager software solutions

All G2 and Capterra data as of October 2025.

1. NinjaOne

With over 30,000 customers worldwide, NinjaOne’s endpoint management software gives IT administrators the tools they need to monitor and secure their Windows, macOS, and Linux devices—all through a single pane of glass. In this way, NinjaOne helps you automate the hardest parts of IT and drives efficiency for your business from day one.

Apart from automated patching and secure remote access, NinjaOne Endpoint Management provides all-in-one software deployment—both on-premises and via the cloud—so you can install and manage applications on any device anytime, anywhere.

What NinjaOne offers for easier desktop monitoring and management

• Easy setup and use: NinjaOne is often commended for its ease of setup, administration, and use. With the intuitive design of its endpoint management platform, you can direct your focus to more strategic moves for your business.
• Reliable network monitoring: On top of high network service levels and tight security, NinjaOne Endpoint Management helps you achieve and maintain constant visibility into your whole IT infrastructure.
• Extensive scalability: Whether you’re a small business with a handful of devices in your network or a large MSP with hundreds or even thousands of endpoints under your care, NinjaOne is designed to scale with your growing needs.
• Fast and consistent patching: NinjaOne features automated patching across Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints, shortening the steps you need to take to keep them updated and secure.
• Remote monitoring and alerting: Lastly, NinjaOne’s endpoint management software enables you to set custom alert policies and even automate remediation workflows, guaranteeing continuous IT support for your end users.

What users say

Customer story

When Omar Couri, head of IT at global real-estate company Dalux, found that the firm’s current endpoint management tool created more problems than solutions—including misconfigurations, autopilot errors, and disorganized asset management—he sought NinjaOne and was drawn by the software’s various features and, more importantly, its capabilities as a centralized IT management platform.

“The most noticeable measurable benefit from switching to NinjaOne is going from only 50% of our endpoints fully secure, compliant, and managed with our previous solution to 100% secure and compliant with NinjaOne,” Couri remarked. “NinjaOne’s control panel allows me to give direct support with a single click and run ready-made scripts effortlessly.”

Other customer reviews

• “NinjaOne allows us to automate all our IT processes. We can now monitor all our endpoints and servers throughout the entire day, which unlocks maximum uptime. This means that our box office, whether in the theater or in the field, is always up and running.” — Matthew Krawiec, director of IT at The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts
• “NinjaOne didn’t just consolidate our tech stack; it unified our previously siloed departments across the city. NinjaOne enables collaboration and camaraderie we simply didn’t have before.” — Ben Perryman, senior IT specialist in cybersecurity at Kansas City Hall
• “NinjaOne lets me instantly see which devices in our fleet don’t meet a required software version and run an automation to update them in real time. Automation saves us hundreds of hours per software deployment, which would previously have been lost to manual work.” — John Durham, product manager at parking management company Flash

Read more NinjaOne customer stories or check out NinjaOne reviews.

NinjaOne reviews on G2

NinjaOne reviews on Capterra

2. Scalefusion

Scalefusion is a unified endpoint management (UEM) software that aims to help businesses remotely maintain and secure their network of endpoints—from laptops and desktops to smartphones. In particular, Scalefusion’s mobile device management (MDM) feature enables IT administrators to keep tabs on both company- and employee-owned (i.e., BYOD) devices running on major operating systems (OSs).

Features

• Multi-system support. Scalefusion supports various OSs, from Windows and Linux to macOS, iOS, and Android.
• Whitelisting and blacklisting. The software implements both whitelisting and blacklisting to, respectively, to deploy recommended apps and block unwanted ones.
• Custom alerts. Scalefusion enables IT administrators to set custom notifications for security and software updates.

Shortcomings

• Challenging navigation. For some Scalefusion users, the platform can be rather difficult to navigate, and it may take some time to get used to the dashboard.
• Complex setup. Users have remarked that setting up/deploying the software for the first time can be made simpler.
• Unresponsiveness. According to users, at times, the platform can be slow or even unresponsive.

See how Scalefusion compares with NinjaOne or read a more in-depth review on Scalefusion alternatives.

Scalefusion reviews on G2

Scalefusion reviews on Capterra

3. Absolute Secure Endpoint (formerly Syxsense)

Absolute Secure Endpoint (formerly Syxsense) is an endpoint management platform with various tools to help IT personnel remotely manage their endpoints, secure them, and access information about them. Absolute Secure Endpoint also markets this software to be the first in the industry to adopt a “self-healing” zero-trust platform, boosting security and productivity.

Features

• Remote wiping. The software enables IT administrators to remotely wipe all data from a compromised endpoint.
• Custom reports and alerts. With Absolute Secure Endpoint, you generate custom reports on security and software license updates.
• Compliance. Absolute Secure Endpoint ensures that endpoints are compliant with the latest business regulations and requirements.

Shortcomings

• Inconstant device status. Users of the platform say that some devices may appear offline and not reappear for days at a time.
• Unenrollment issues. Some users would appreciate being able to wipe data from a device prior to it being unenrolled from the network.
• Script issues. According to a few users, automated scripts are rather difficult to produce, and some can still be standardized in the script library.

See how Syxsense compares with NinjaOne or read a more in-depth review on Syxsense alternatives.

Absolute Secure Endpoint reviews on G2

Absolute Secure Endpoint reviews on Capterra

4. SuperOps

SuperOps is a unified remote monitoring and management (RMM) solution marketed toward MSPs of all sizes, with functionalities to remotely patch endpoints, automate routine tasks, and perform IT documentation from a unified dashboard. It also supports integrations with various tools to enhance productivity and functionality.

Features

• APIs. SuperOps comes with APIs that allow for the integration of data with other software applications.
• Mobile access. The software can be used on mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets.
• Patch management. With SuperOps, users can automate the patching of enterprise devices to ensure that they’re updated and secure.

Shortcomings

• Challenging script deployment. Users report that script deployment can be better organized to show which scripts have been successfully or unsuccessfully applied.
• File manager issues. According to a few users, the file manager can be further improved with additional control features.
• Lengthy setup. SuperOps users report that setup and configuration may take some time and that the out-of-the-box experience can be better.

See how SuperOps compares with NinjaOne or read a more in-depth review on SuperOps alternatives.

SuperOps reviews on G2

SuperOps reviews on Capterra

5. ManageEngine Endpoint Central

ManageEngine Endpoint Central is a cloud-based UEM designed to help its users manage, update, and secure enterprise devices from a central location. The software also features automation to simplify desktop management routines as well as supports endpoints running Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Features

• Threat detection. This tool collects information on the health and performance of your IT network, aiding in cyber threat detection.
• Remote access. ManageEngine users can remotely access devices’ file manager, task manager, registry, and other tools.
• Disaster recovery. Following an IT disaster, ManageEngine enables cloud backup to help recover sensitive enterprise data.

Shortcomings

• Complex user interface. Users of ManageEngine report that the platform can be more intuitive and streamlined.
• Lacking documentation. The solution’s documentation capabilities still have room for improvement, according to some users.
• Limited patch reports. Users say that the tool’s patch reports can be more detailed, even as the software has custom report capabilities.

See how ManageEngine Endpoint Central compares with NinjaOne or read a more in-depth analysis of ManageEngine Endpoint Central alternatives.

ManageEngine Endpoint Central reviews on G2

ManageEngine Endpoint Central reviews on Capterra

6. N-able N-central

N-able N-central is an RMM marketed to be built with “security in mind,” offering features such as automated patch management, remote support, integrations, and IT security via integrated backups and endpoint detection and response (EDR). This software is also designed to scale with your business’s growth.

Features

• Unified communications. N-able N-central facilitates communication between users and administrators for prompt issue resolution.
• Alerts. The software sends alerts to IT personnel via pop-up notifications, emails, or texts in the event of network issues.
• Network visibility. N-able N-central offers users full network visibility, whether the environment is on-premises or on the cloud.

Shortcomings

• Complex interface. A few users have remarked that it can take some time to become familiar with N-able N-central’s user interface.
• Unscheduled reports. Some users wish that N-able N-central’s reports can be scheduled to a time of their choosing.
• Lacking update deployment. According to some reviewers, the process of deploying updates to clients still has some room for improvement.

See how N-able N-central compares with NinjaOne or read a more in-depth analysis of N-able N-central alternatives.

N-able N-central reviews on G2

N-able N-central reviews on Capterra

7. SolarWinds DameWare Remote Support

SolarWinds DameWare Remote Support, as the name implies, provides IT teams with the means to remotely manage, maintain, and secure on-premises endpoints. The software supports Windows, macOS, and Linux devices as well as enables administrators to access these devices either inside or outside the network firewall.

Features

• Integrations. SolarWinds DameWare Remote Support allows for the integration of various IT tools, such as those for diagnostics and IT management.
• Remote device control. IT admins can use this platform to directly control an end user’s device regardless of the latter’s presence.
• Usage information. SolarWinds DameWare also provides insights into enterprise device activity for better monitoring purposes.

Shortcomings

• Challenging setup. According to some users of the platform, first-time setup can be rather challenging.
• Limited authentication options. Users have mentioned that only one mode of two-factor authentication (2FA) is available on the platform.
• Remote control issues. Some users report that they have experienced intermittent issues with the tool’s remote control functionality.

See how SolarWinds DameWare Remote Support compares with NinjaOne or read a more in-depth analysis of SolarWinds DameWare Remote Support alternatives.

SolarWinds DameWare Remote Support reviews on G2

SolarWinds DameWare Remote Support reviews on Capterra

8. LogMeIn Central

LogMeIn Central is a cloud-based RMM that enables IT administrators to monitor, manage, and safeguard their endpoints across the globe and in real time. Apart from patch and ticketing management, this solution offers features such as remote access/control, IT asset tracking, and vulnerability scanning.

Features

• Remote monitoring. With LogMeIn Central, IT personnel can remotely monitor endpoint activity from a central terminal.
• Application deployment. The solution allows users to deploy the latest applications on both desktop and mobile devices.
• Asset inventory. LogMeIn Central offers the means to create both hardware and software asset inventories.

Shortcomings

• Service interruptions. Some LogMeIn Central users have reported experiencing service interruptions because of latency.
• Limited Mac support. According to users, the platform could provide support for remote Mac devices.
• Lengthy remote access process. Users have remarked that remotely connecting to and controlling an endpoint takes several steps.

LogMeIn Central reviews on G2

LogMeIn Central reviews on Capterra

9. IBM Security MaaS360

IBM Security MaaS360 is a cloud-based UEM solution that’s marketed to help organizations streamline their IT management and security processes. This tool supports endpoints running different desktop and mobile OSs, all from a single console, and includes such capabilities as device enrollment and regulation compliance.

Features

• Multi-system mobile support. Apart from providing desktop management, IBM Security MaaS360 supports mobile OSs such as Android and iOS.
• Device enrollment. With IBM Security MaaS360, IT administrators can register both company- and employee-owned devices for the business’s IT network.
• Remote wiping. In case a device becomes lost or compromised, IBM Security MaaS360 allows for all data to be cleared from the device.

Shortcomings

• Complex interface. Reviewers have commented that the IBM Security MaaS360 portal can be more intuitive for less tech-savvy users.
• Lengthy configuration setup. In addition, users have remarked on how setting up configurations through the platform can take more steps than necessary.
• Lacking reports. According to some reviewers, IBM Security MaaS360’s reporting capabilities still have much room for improvement.

See how IBM Security MaaS360 compares to NinjaOne or read a more in-depth analysis of IBM Security MaaS360 alternatives.

IBM Security MaaS360 reviews on G2

IBM Security MaaS360 reviews on Capterra

10. Ivanti Neurons for UEM

Ivanti Neurons for Unified Endpoint Management is a cloud-based UEM solution that aims to grant IT teams complete visibility across desktop, mobile, and IoT endpoints. Through a unified interface, users of Ivanti Neurons for UEM can utilize features such as device discovery, endpoint security, and IT asset inventory.

Features

• Patch management. Ivanti Neurons for UEM features patch management capabilities to keep devices up to date, regulation-compliant, and secure.
• Application management. The software helps businesses oversee the management and configuration of applications on their endpoints.
• Data separation. With this solution, IT administrators can separate personal data from business data on employees’ devices.

Shortcomings

• Challenges in integration. A few users have mentioned that integrations with other systems in Ivanti Neurons for UEM still have room for improvement.
• Steep learning curve. According to reviews, setting up the software for the first time can take a while to fully understand and implement.
• Limited customization. Reviewers have also remarked that customization options in Ivanti Neurons for UEM are rather limited.

See how Ivanti compares with NinjaOne or read a more in-depth analysis of Ivanti alternatives.

Ivanti Neurons for UEM reviews on G2

Ivanti Neurons for UEM reviews on Capterra

11. ConnectWise Automate

ConnectWise Automate, as ConnectWise’s RMM solution, is marketed to help MSPs and IT teams monitor and troubleshoot their endpoints and servers across different networks. More particularly, its scripting function automates routine processes and workflows according to your organization’s needs.

Features

• Remote monitoring. Through a central terminal, IT administrators who use ConnectWise Automate can remotely monitor endpoint activity.
• Patch management. ConnectWise Automate enables you to deploy patches and updates to your devices for continued security and compliance.
• Asset tracking. Additionally, the software includes tracking capabilities for your business’s assets and financial data.

Shortcomings

• Subpar support. Users of ConnectWise Automate have reported that the process of contacting IT support leaves much to be desired.
• Steep learning curve. According to some reviewers, it may take a while for non-technical users to get used to the platform and its features.
• Inconsistent functionalities. Users say that some features in the client version aren’t available on the web version and vice versa, compelling them to use both.

See how ConnectWise Automate compares with NinjaOne or read a more in-depth analysis of ConnectWise Automate alternatives.

ConnectWise Automate reviews on G2

ConnectWise Automate reviews on Capterra

Comparison of desktop manager software (G2)

Comparison of desktop manager software (Capterra)

Final scores and summaries of desktop manager software solutions

We’ve compiled all the data and calculated scores for each of the desktop manager software vendors. Below are the final scores for these vendors, and a short explanation is provided for each desktop management tool.

Our rankings formula

To derive the final score for each vendor, we employed a weighted formula that takes into account various metrics. Here’s how it breaks down:

Final Score = w1 * G2 Overall Star Rating + w2 * Capterra Overall Star Rating + w3 * G2 Good Partner in Doing Business + w4 * Capterra Customer Service + w5 * G2 Total Number of Reviews (Scaled) + w6 * Capterra Total Number of Reviews (Scaled) + Other Factors

Where:

w1 = 0.15 (Weight for G2 Overall Star Rating)
w2 = 0.15 (Weight for Capterra Overall Star Rating)
w3 = 0.2 (Weight for G2 Good Partner in Doing Business)
w4 = 0.2 (Weight for Capterra Customer Service)
w5 = 0.1 (Weight for G2 Total Number of Reviews, Scaled)
w6 = 0.1 (Weight for Capterra Total Number of Reviews, Scaled)

Other Factors include additional metrics like ease of use, each multiplied by their corresponding weights:

w7 = 0.05 (Weight for G2 Ease of Use)
w8 = 0.05 (Weight for Capterra Ease of Use)

Selecting the right desktop manager software for your business

To recap, determining which desktop management solution to use for your organization requires some thoughtful consideration—but ultimately offers several benefits in the long run. At the very least, this kind of software is able to grant you a centralized view of your entire IT network, through which you can

• resolve issues more quickly,
• secure devices in fewer steps, and
• overall accomplish tasks more efficiently.

With the eleven top-performing options we’ve listed above and a quick reminder that choosing the best fit isn’t a one-and-done process—don’t forget to do further research, perform comparisons, and consider your organization’s specific needs—you’ll be one step closer to a desktop management solution that scales with your business, helps secure your IT infrastructure, and offers all the tools you need to check all your endpoints in check.

If you’re considering NinjaOne’s endpoint management platform, you’d be glad to know that this software has no forced commitments and no hidden fees. On top of its easy-to-navigate interface and real-time monitoring functionalities, NinjaOne Endpoint Management automates the most time-consuming IT tasks, such as patch and software management, so you can focus on creating strategies to grow your business.