Hybrid work is everywhere these days. As a result, managing IT systems remotely has moved from a convenience to a necessity. Whether your employees are spread across multiple locations or you simply want to streamline operations, the right remote IT management tools can make all the difference.
At RevNet, we support businesses across Canada with fully managed IT services. In this post, we’ll walk you through the essential categories of remote IT tools that we use and recommend to our clients.
Contents
- 1 Why Remote IT Management Matters
- 2 1. Remote Monitoring & Management (RMM)
- 3 2. Remote Access & Support Tools
- 4 3. Endpoint Protection & EDR
- 5 4. Patch Management & Software Deployment
- 6 5. Mobile Device Management (MDM)
- 7 6. Secure VPN & Network Access
- 8 7. Backup & Disaster Recovery (BDR)
- 9 8. Collaboration Tools with IT Oversight
- 10 9. Documentation & IT Knowledge Base
- 11 How We Help Clients Use These Tools
- 12 Final Thoughts
Why Remote IT Management Matters
As businesses adapt to flexible work models, IT teams are expected to provide fast, secure, and consistent support without being physically present. That’s where remote IT management tools come into play.
Businesses that deploy the right tech stack allow IT teams to manage their workflow successfully and reduce downtime. This is accomplished through various services:
- Remote Monitoring & Management (RMM): Monitor systems 24/7.
- Remote Access & Support Tools: Prevent issues from escalating.
- Endpoint Protection & EDR: Secure endpoints, regardless of location.
- Patch Management & Software Deployment: Automatically deploy updates and patches.
- Mobile Device Management (MDM): Access devices remotely to troubleshoot and manage them effectively.
- Secure VPN & Network Access: Secure networks for remote or hybrid workers.
- Backup & Disaster Recovery (BDR): Backup and restore data with minimal downtime.
- Collaboration Tools with IT Oversight: Regular office programs that can integrate with cybersecurity software.
- Documentation & IT Knowledge Base: Helps IT teams maintain documentation and procedures.
1. Remote Monitoring & Management (RMM)
What it does: RMM tools enable IT providers to monitor, manage, and maintain endpoints, such as laptops, desktops, and servers, from a centralized dashboard. They can help detect problems proactively, often before the end user is even aware of them.
Why do we recommend them? RMM platforms act as the backbone of proactive IT support. They automate patching, send real-time alerts for system issues, and allow businesses to run scripts remotely, all of which can help reduce repetitive tasks and keep your systems optimized 24/7. Reliable RMM is also central to successful network monitoring, ensuring your systems are consistently optimized and secure.
2. Remote Access & Support Tools
What it does: Remote access software allows technicians to securely log in to client machines from anywhere, enabling them to troubleshoot issues or provide support.
Why do we recommend them? Secure remote support tools are invaluable for resolving issues like printer malfunctions, software errors, or system freezes, without needing to wait for a technician to arrive on-site. This enables faster response times and keeps teams productive.
3. Endpoint Protection & EDR
What it does: Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions protect devices from malware, ransomware and phishing. They offer real-time threat detection and response, often with AI-driven analysis.
Why do we recommend them? With rapidly evolving cyber threats, traditional antivirus solutions no longer suffice. Modern EDR systems provide multi-layered protection, helping us stay one step ahead of attackers and secure endpoints, no matter where your team works. These EDR solutions not only help protect your infrastructure, but they can also enhance your cyber insurance eligibility.
4. Patch Management & Software Deployment
What it does: Patch management and software development tools ensure that operating systems and third-party applications are updated regularly, without requiring user input.
Our top picks include:
- PDQ Deploy: Automatic deployment of software packages to multiple devices.
- ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus: Monitors in real-time for missing patches.
Why do we recommend these tools? Delayed patches can leave systems vulnerable to cyber threats. These tools automate the update process, reducing risk and saving hours of manual work.
5. Mobile Device Management (MDM)
What it does: MDM solutions enable IT teams to manage smartphones, tablets, and laptops, which is especially important for BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies.
Our top picks include:
- Microsoft Intune: Seamlessly integrates with Microsoft 365 environments on all company-owned BYOD.
- Jamf: Best-in-class MDM for Apple devices, offering everything from compliance monitoring to antivirus protection.
Why do we recommend these tools? These tools help enforce security settings, track lost devices, and even remotely wipe data if needed. Offering SMBs peace of mind in a mobile-first world.
6. Secure VPN & Network Access
What it does: VPNs provide encrypted tunnels that allow users to connect to internal resources securely when outside the office network. Optimal for remote or hybrid teams that require secure networks.
Why do we recommend them? In today’s hybrid work environments, not all internet connections are created equal. VPNs ensure that sensitive data remains protected, even when employees work from public locations such as cafes, airports, or home networks, creating a vital layer of security for modern businesses.
7. Backup & Disaster Recovery (BDR)
What it does: BDR tools create regular backups for systems, applications, and files, enabling rapid recovery in the event of hardware failure, cyberattacks, or human error.
Why do we recommend them? Data loss can be catastrophic. These solutions provide our clients with reliable and secure backups that can be restored within hours, minimizing business disruption and ensuring peace of mind even in worst-case scenarios.
8. Collaboration Tools with IT Oversight
What it does: Productivity and collaboration suites, such as Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, require IT oversight to ensure they remain secure and compliant.
Our top picks include:
- Microsoft 365 for admin centre controls.
- Google Workspace for security configurations.
- Slack with Enterprise Grid for granular access.
Why do we recommend these tools? While these are common tools, the key is setting them up properly. We ensure they’re integrated with identity management, MFA, and data loss prevention (DLP) policies.
9. Documentation & IT Knowledge Base
What it does: Helps IT teams maintain standardized procedures, credentials, and client infrastructure information all in one place.
Our top picks include:
- IT Glue: Industry-standard documentation platform leveraging AI-driven solutions to automate considerable tasks, used by most MSPs.
Why do we recommend these tools? To ensure every client has a unique environment, solid documentation ensures consistency, faster support, and a smoother onboarding process.
How We Help Clients Use These Tools
Choosing the right tools is only half the battle; managing them effectively is where the value truly lies.
At RevNet, we:
- Customize a tool stack that aligns with your business needs
- Handle licensing, configuration, and ongoing updates
- Monitor systems around the clock
- Provide full user support and troubleshooting
- Ensure tools integrate smoothly for seamless performance
Whether you have no IT team, a small in-house crew, or a growing business with complex infrastructure, we tailor our remote management solutions to fit your workflow.
Final Thoughts
Remote IT management tools have transformed how businesses operate in a decentralized world. But the real magic happens when those tools are expertly configured, monitored, and supported.
If you’re overwhelmed by all the options or simply want a partner who can take the guesswork out of IT, Revolution Networks is here to help.
Ready to streamline your IT? Contact us today to learn how we can support your remote team with the right tools and expertise.