What is the Remote Desktop Manager?

Remote Desktop Manager (RDM) is a software application that allows users to centralize and manage remote connections to various systems. It is commonly used by IT professionals and system administrators to streamline access to different machines, servers, and devices from a single interface.

In the world of IT management, Remote Desktop Manager (RDM) stands out as a versatile solution for efficiently handling remote connections. Whether you're an individual user or part of a large enterprise, understanding the distinctions between the Devolutions Remote Desktop Manager Free vs Enterprise versions is crucial for making an informed decision.

Remote Desktop Manager Free vs Enterprise

Shortly, the differences between Remote Desktop Manager Free vs paid lie in that Remote Desktop Manager Enterprise offers several features that are not available in Remote Desktop Manager Free. The following lists some of these features:

Enhanced password management

Revamped password administration is a key highlight of Remote Desktop Manager Enterprise. This edition facilitates seamless integration with prevalent password management tools like 1Password, AuthAnvil, Dashlane, KeePass, Keeper, LastPass, and others. Teams utilizing Enterprise can effortlessly import credentials directly from these external applications, streamlining the access and management of sensitive information. This enhanced password management capability underscores the adaptability and efficiency that Remote Desktop Manager Enterprise brings to teams in handling their security credentials.

Centralized database

In a multi-user setting, Remote Desktop Manager Enterprise empowers teams to operate both efficiently and securely. This is achieved through the seamless sharing of sessions utilizing diverse data source types, including but not limited to Devolutions Server, MariaDB, Microsoft SQL Azure, and Microsoft SQL Server.

Moreover, teams benefit from the flexibility of exporting and importing data source configurations, streamlining the deployment process for multiple users. This functionality not only enhances collaborative efforts but also ensures a robust and adaptable framework for managing sessions in various environments.

Custom installer service

Incorporated within Remote Desktop Manager Enterprise is the innovative Custom Installer Service. The process entails replicating a Remote Desktop Manager instance to generate an installer file, denoted as (*.rdi). This file serves as the foundation for constructing the installation package. Notably, the configuration embedded within this file encompasses a spectrum of elements, including license serial numbers, data sources, credentials, database templates, and additional parameters.

To optimize this procedure, it is advised to designate a dedicated Remote Desktop Manager instance exclusively for the creation of the installation package. This streamlined approach ensures the seamless integration of essential components, facilitating a hassle-free deployment experience for users.

RDM Jump

Within Remote Desktop Manager Enterprise, the integrated RDM Jump feature provides teams with a unique functionality. This feature facilitates connections to a remote host, commonly referred to as a Jump Box or Service Host, acting as an intermediary to establish connections with other hosts—a concept akin to Microsoft's RD Gateway.

To enhance security measures, RDM Jump exclusively permits connections from specific IP addresses and restricts access solely to hosts accessible from the designated jump box. This feature proves especially beneficial for teams facing challenges in consistently accessing private networks yet requiring sustained productivity and efficiency in their operations.

Offline mode

The Offline Mode feature in Remote Desktop Manager Enterprise proves invaluable for teams navigating periods of limited or unreliable internet connectivity. Users can seamlessly access a local copy of the data source, ensuring uninterrupted workflow. Any modifications made during offline sessions are automatically saved and synchronized back to the shared data source once internet access is re-established.

Upholding stringent security measures, the offline files are encrypted using the proprietary private key, further fortified by incorporating unique information gleaned from the local machine. Optionally, a passphrase can also be employed for additional security. For detailed guidance on configuring and leveraging the Offline Mode, refer to Jenny's recent article, which provides comprehensive step-by-step instructions for a seamless setup.

Advanced reports

In the IT domain, there's a widely acknowledged principle: if information isn't documented, it's essentially nonexistent. Remote Desktop Manager Enterprise addresses this by offering advanced reporting features tailored for teams. This powerful capability allows users to:

• Log all events related to privileged accounts, like logins and historical data.
• Get a clear view of password access with detailed audit trails.
• Create detailed access logs to track what privileged users are doing. Identify who's currently connected to servers in the same repository in real time.
• Get alerts when users are already connected for vigilant monitoring.
• Look into detailed reports on failed login attempts and history for security insights.

Session recording

Remote Desktop Manager Enterprise comes equipped with an integrated user session recording feature for RDP, SSH, VNC, and ARD sessions. This proves especially beneficial for teams seeking to revisit specific support sessions or requiring concrete evidence for managerial or customer review regarding the actions performed during a session. This functionality enhances transparency and accountability, ensuring a detailed record of user interactions and activities across various remote access sessions.

Bonus tip: Easier way to manage multiple remote connections via AnyViewer

AnyViewer is primarily known as a free remote desktop access solution, allowing users to connect to and control remote computers from another location. While AnyViewer is primarily designed for remote desktop access, it also offers some features that can help you better manage multiple remote connections:

• Group devices: Physically group or categorize remote devices based on their purposes or locations. For example, you could create teams to categorize devices by department or project.
• Use alias feature: AnyViewer offers a customizable alias feature, allowing users to set unique aliases for remote devices, making them easily recognizable.
• Switch tab: In scenarios where multiple devices are being controlled, a simple tab-clicking mechanism allows users to swiftly switch between remote sessions, facilitating efficient navigation.

Embark on the journey of effortlessly managing multiple remote connections with AnyViewer by following these user-friendly steps:

Step 1. Download and install AnyViewer on both devices.

Step 2. Launch AnyViewer on the remote device and swiftly complete the easy sign-up process.

Step 3. Log into your local device using the same AnyViewer account.

Step 4. Head to the "Device" section, locate your desired remote devices, and establish an instant connection with a simple click by selecting "One-click control."

Step 5. When managing multiple devices, seamlessly switch between remote sessions by clicking on the respective tab, ensuring quick and efficient navigation.

★Note: 

To control more than two devices simultaneously, you'll need to upgrade to a Professional or Enterprise plan.

 

The bottom line

In conclusion, the comparison between Remote Desktop Manager Free vs Enterprise reveals crucial disparities in features, emphasizing enhanced password management, centralized database capabilities, a custom installer service, RDM Jump for secure connections, offline mode resilience, advanced reporting for documentation, and integrated session recording.

For those seeking an easier way to manage multiple connections, AnyViewer provides a user-friendly solution with features like grouping devices, custom aliases, and efficient tab-switching. These tools collectively empower users to navigate, control, and secure remote connections with utmost efficiency.