The next MSP software showdown involves remote control software and cloud technology, as companies like SolarWinds N-able and ConnectWise counter LogMeIn across the managed services provider (MSP) landscape.
SolarWinds N-able MSP Anywhere, which launched today, is remote control technology based on the recent buyout of BeAnywhere (I don't think the deal was previously disclosed). Meanwhile, ConnectWise is planning a major ScreenConnect remote control push during the IT Nation 2015 conference in November.
SolarWinds N-able MSP Anywhere is a cloud-based platform that supports Windows, Macs, iOS and Android devices. The remote control software, delivered as a cloud service, is available now on a per month/concurrent technician subscription basis. Pricing is available online, SolarWinds says, though I wonder if the company is keeping pricing close to the vest amid some pricing changes at LogMeIn that rattled partners and customers.
In a similar move, ConnectWise acquired ScreenConnect in February 2015, and it's safe to expect CEO Arnie Bellini to emphasize the software -- integrated with LabTech's platform -- during his IT Nation keynote in November.
MSP Remote Control: No Longer Optional
Remote control technology certainly isn't new to the MSP market. Most of the major PSA (professional services automation) and RMM (remote monitoring and management) platform providers either have remote control software or related cloud services at this point, or gain the capability through alliances. Examples include:
- Autotask Endpoint Management, gained through the CentraStage acquisition (I think...)
- Continuum, which continues to have an exclusive RMM-remote control relationship with LogMeIn. The relationship has remained strong since its launch in 2013, Continuum tells ChannelE2E.
- Kaseya offers Kaseya Remote Control, though I don't know if the technology is home-grown, acquired or OEMed. (Checking.)
- LogicNow, which continues to have a relationship with Team Viewer.
- Which ones did I miss?
SolarWinds: Buying... And Selling?
SolarWinds' buyout of BeAnywhere is especially timely. SolarWinds itself has been the subject of takeover rumors. The company apparently has received unsolicited buyout offers from private equity firms. In response, SolarWinds apparently is giving potential suitors until the end of October to submit potential bids for the company.
