Key Points
- Definition of Remote Access Tool (RAT): A Remote Access Tool (RAT) is software that allows IT professionals to remotely connect to and manage devices, servers, and networks—critical for supporting remote or hybrid workforces.
- Essential for Remote IT Support: RATs enable real-time troubleshooting, endpoint management, and device monitoring from any location, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency.
- Types of Remote Access Tools:
- VPNs: Useful for secure network tunneling but often limited by complexity and performance issues.
- Cloud-Based Access: Ideal for small teams but heavily dependent on internet stability.
- Direct Remote Access Software: Most versatile, secure, and platform-agnostic—often preferred by IT teams.
- RAT vs. Remote Access Trojan (RAT): While both share the acronym, a Remote Access Trojan refers to malicious software that grants unauthorized control, often used for cyberattacks such as keylogging and data exfiltration.
- Key Benefits of Remote Access Tools:
- Provide instant IT support across geographic boundaries
- Minimize downtime and operational costs
- Enable faster response and resolution times
- Remote Access vs. Mobile Device Management (MDM):
- Remote Access: Best for IT help desk tasks and live support
- MDM: Ideal for securing devices, managing compliance, and enforcing policies
- Together: Deliver comprehensive support + security for remote endpoints
- Critical Features to Look for in a Remote Access Tool:
- Security: Encryption, MFA, and endpoint protection
- Speed & Usability: Fast connections and intuitive UI
- Device Compatibility: Cross-platform support for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, etc.
In 2020, amid the pandemic-induced lockdowns, remote and hybrid work opportunities skyrocketed, especially in the IT space. Since then, remote work has become more prevalent in all kinds of industries. Statistics show that more than 4.7 million people work remotely at least half the time in the United States, a number that is still on the rise.
To support this influx of remote endpoints, IT professionals rely on remote access tools. This overview will cover what remote access tools are and how mobile device management (MDM) solutions compare with remote access solutions.
What is a remote access tool (RAT)?
A remote access tool (RAT) is a software solution that allows users to connect to devices, servers, and networks remotely. It gives an IT admin access to a device to troubleshoot and conduct other IT tasks without physically using it. Using secure remote access solutions, IT teams can provide support and protection for all their endpoints, regardless of location.
This video on “What Is a Remote Access Tool (RAT)?” walks through the basics—and risks—of remote access tools (RATs).
Types of remote access tools
IT professionals can access endpoints remotely via three methods, each with advantages and drawbacks.
1. Virtual private networks (VPNs)
Internet users may be familiar with VPNs as a tool to access streaming apps overseas or hide their real-time location. This kind of VPN grants remote access by linking endpoints to an organization’s network via a server, allowing access to files and systems outside the office.
While this may be ideal for SMEs that need access to multiple systems, connection issues can arise, especially for long-distance clients. Additionally, set-ups and maintenance are sometimes complex and costly.
2. Cloud-based access
With this type, endpoint users can access their on-site computers remotely through a mobile endpoint, such as a laptop or smartphone. This makes it preferable for businesses with a small or limited staff working in a hybrid setup.
However, this solution requires a stable and reliable Internet connection and is generally unsuitable for larger workforces.
3. Direct remote access software
Software solutions, most recommended by IT professionals, provide remote access to endpoint users and IT teams without the need for a network link or Internet connectivity.
While sometimes used in tandem with the other two types, remote access software is more advantageous for its more secure endpoint connections, cost-efficiency, and compatibility with various device types and operating systems.
What is a remote access trojan (RAT)?
When a remote access tool is used for malicious actions, it is called a remote access trojan, which also uses the acronym RAT. With a remote access trojan, unauthorized parties can control devices without permission from the user or the IT team. Unauthorized users can conduct keylogging, file access, screen capture, and other actions that help them gain access to an organization’s confidential data.
Resolve IT issues anywhere and avoid costly downtimes.
Benefits of remote access tools
Without remote access, IT professionals could not provide fast, efficient, and reliable support for remote endpoints. Remote access tools benefit organizations by allowing IT teams to:
Provide IT support from any location
According to a recent remote work survey, “65% of respondents report wanting to work remotely full-time, while 32% want a hybrid work environment. That’s an astounding 97% of workers who desire some form of remote work.” To support this remote work movement, IT teams use remote access to manage and support devices from any location and at any time.
Save resources
Downtime is costly for any organization. It hinders teams’ workflows, prevents progress on projects, and impedes success. Recent 2023 downtime statistics show that downtime costs “$137 to $427 per minute, whereas for larger businesses, the downtime can cost over $16,000 per minute ($1 million per hour) for just a short outage.” Using remote access to support devices, IT personnel can actively resolve downtime and other costly issues quickly and efficiently.
Achieve fast response times
With remote access tools, IT administrators can troubleshoot and resolve issues as quickly as possible. The days of on-premise support are in the past, and now IT teams can provide fast support to any endpoint from any location. Usually, it only takes a few minutes for an IT admin to connect with a user’s device, and they can get started immediately on any issues that need to be resolved.
Mobile device management vs. remote access
Although mobile device management (MDM) and remote access are both software solutions that aid in remote or hybrid workforces, they have different functions and purposes. Remote access focuses mainly on providing support and resolving help desk tasks, while MDM focuses on securing devices, protecting data, and aiding compliance efforts. So, although the two tools seem similar, they serve very different purposes. Take a look at the chart below to see the pros and cons of each solution.
Pros and cons of MDM solutions vs. remote access solutions
| MDM | Remote access |
Pros:
| Pros:
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Cons:
| Cons:
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Why you should use mobile device management and remote access together
The best way to create a successful, secure and supported – remote or hybrid work environment is to use remote access and MDM together. Using a remote access solution, IT members can gain essential insight into remote devices to troubleshoot problems and provide solutions. With an MDM tool, administrators can secure and manage remote devices and their data, and ensure basic compliance requirements are met.
Using mobile device management and remote access together, gives you all the benefits each tool provides; in other words, you get the best of both worlds. To get the most out of your remote access strategy, check out our video on Remote Access Best Practices.
How to choose a remote access tool
With numerous remote access tools available in the IT market today, finding the right one for your IT team and your organization can be challenging if you are unsure what to look for.
To assist in your search, here are three must-haves in a remote access tool.
1. Security measures
The first and most essential aspect of a good remote access tool is its security features (e.g., encryption and multi-factor authentication).
With these, IT administrators can secure endpoints to ensure their safe and protected use.
2. Speed and efficiency
IT management teams need a remote tool to detect and respond to endpoint issues quickly and without downtime.
Ideally, it should be easy for IT admins to learn how to use, set up, and integrate into an organization’s systems.
3. Device and system compatibility
Some remote access tools are designed for devices running a specific operating system (e.g., iOS, Windows, Android), while others are versatile enough to manage multiple types.
Take inventory of what devices your business possesses that can optimally be compatible with your choice of RAT.
Support all your devices with remote access and MDM
Remote access tools are essential for IT teams that need to provide support for remote or hybrid workforces. Long gone are the days of on-premise support. With the right remote access and MDM solutions, IT departments and MSPs have fast, secure ways to connect and communicate with remote devices. Try MDM and remote access together to provide next-level security and support for your IT team and business.
To see how remote access works in practice and why it’s so critical for modern IT teams, watch our video: What is Remote Access: A Comprehensive Overview.
