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·7 minute read
The Best MSP Tools to Power Every Area of Your Business
Lachlan StrikeGeneral Manager
Managed Service Providers (MSPs) require a robust suite of tools to efficiently manage client infrastructures, ensure security, and streamline operations. Selecting the right tools is crucial for delivering top-notch services and maintaining client satisfaction. This guide explores the best MSP tools across key operational areas, providing insights into their features, advantages, and potential drawbacks.
MSP Tools That Support Every Area of Your Business
Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM)
NinjaOne is a cloud-native remote monitoring and management (RMM) solution that distinguishes itself with a highly scriptable, agent-based architecture and broad integration support for PSA and backup platforms. It's particularly effective for MSPs that manage complex endpoint fleets across multiple environments, providing built-in automation tools and powerful scripting capabilities in PowerShell and Bash. In addition to automated patching and robust remote access, NinjaOne supports role-based policy enforcement and flexible alerting systems that suit compliance-conscious operations. IT teams value its responsive patching workflows, policy management, and reporting structures that are well-suited for regulated environments. Key Features:- Comprehensive remote monitoring and management capabilities for Windows, MacOS, and Linux endpoints
- Automated patch management for operating systems and third-party applications
- Integrated backup solutions and ticketing system
- Real-time alerts and performance monitoring dashboards
- Script automation using PowerShell and Bash.
- User-friendly interface with intuitive navigation
- Lightweight agent minimises system resource usage
- High customer satisfaction with responsive support
- Strong security compliance, including GDPR and HIPAA
- Reporting features may lack advanced customisation options
- Pricing may be higher compared to some competitors
Professional Services Automation (PSA)
HaloPSA is a fully featured PSA platform known for its strong support of advanced SLA management, technician scheduling, and complex contract billing workflows. It is built to accommodate both single-tenant and multi-tenant environments, which makes it highly scalable for MSPs managing numerous clients with distinct operational needs. The platform allows for per-client service definitions, role-based dashboards, and in-depth customisation across tickets, notifications, and business hours. HaloPSA is ideal for MSPs looking to consolidate operational tools without sacrificing customisation or performance. Key Features:- Comprehensive service desk management with ITIL-aligned functionality
- Integrated CRM, project tracking, billing, and reporting modules
- Customisable workflows and automation capabilities
- Self-hosting options for greater control
- Modern, intuitive interface
- Flexible customisation to fit various business needs
- Competitive pricing with a wide range of features
- Initial setup and configuration may require a learning curve.
- Some users report a complex interface due to extensive features.
- There is typically a learning curve in the initial setup and configuration process.
- Some users report a complex interface due to extensive features.
A Documentation Tool For Knowledge Management
IT Glue is a documentation and knowledge management platform tailored for MSPs. It helps teams centralise, secure, and organise all client-related information, dramatically improving service consistency and technician efficiency. IT Glue supports role-based access control, enabling granular permissions based on technician roles or client-specific access tiers. The platform is designed with data sovereignty in mind, offering options for region-specific data residency to meet the needs of MSPs working with clients in regulated industries. Multi-tenancy, audit trails, and support for encrypted storage make it particularly well-suited for privacy-conscious IT environments. Key Features:- Centralised repository for IT documentation, including SOPs, passwords, and configurations
- Integration with major PSA and RMM tools
- Automated documentation capture and relationship mapping
- Secure access controls with multi-factor authentication and audit logging
- Enhances team efficiency by reducing the time spent searching for information
- Improves onboarding processes with standardised documentation
- Strong security measures to protect sensitive data
- Search functionality may be less intuitive for new users
- Limited customisation options for templates and layouts
Backup and Disaster Recovery Systems
Acronis Backup offers flexible and scalable data protection solutions designed for MSPs managing hybrid environments. It supports cloud, on-premises, and virtual backups with advanced security features such as ransomware protection and end-to-end encryption. Key Features:- Image-based and file-level backup and recovery
- Cloud compatibility with AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud
- Centralised management console for monitoring and reporting
- Built-in AI-based ransomware protection
- Customisable scheduling and retention policies
- Simple deployment and intuitive management
- Advanced security and data protection features
- Scalable for businesses of all sizes
- Reliable disaster recovery performance
- Pricing may increase with advanced security features
- Resource usage can be higher during large-scale backups
Network Monitoring For Visibility
Auvik is a cloud-based network monitoring tool that automates network discovery, mapping, and monitoring. It’s designed to provide MSPs with real-time visibility and control over client network infrastructure. The system excels in delivering multi-site visibility, alert escalation workflows, and SNMP device tracking, which are all accessible via a modern web UI. Auvik is highly regarded for reducing troubleshooting time and proactively surfacing network anomalies before they become critical issues. Key Features:- Automated network discovery and mapping
- Real-time network monitoring with customisable alerts
- Traffic analysis and performance metrics
- Integration with various PSA and RMM tools
- Intuitive dashboard with clear visualisation of network topology
- Fast deployment and minimal configuration required
- Responsive customer support
- Pricing may be higher for startups or small MSPs
- Limited oversight for server infrastructure
Asset Management
ManageEngine AssetExplorer is a web-based asset management solution that helps MSPs track and manage IT assets through their entire lifecycle. It is particularly useful for ensuring compliance and optimising resource allocation. The platform is especially valuable for MSPs managing distributed environments, as it supports agentless scanning and tight integration with ITSM systems. Key Features:- Automated discovery of hardware and software assets
- Lifecycle management from procurement to disposal
- Software license compliance tracking
- Integration with help desk and other ITSM tools
- Comprehensive asset tracking and reporting
- User-friendly interface with customisable dashboards
- Affordable pricing with flexible licensing options
- Limited API support for integrations
- Mobile application lacks some features available in the web version
Unified MSP Platform
Kaseya 365 is an all-in-one platform that integrates RMM, PSA, endpoint security, and automation features. Designed to reduce software sprawl, it provides a centralised system for MSPs to manage their entire service delivery. Its appeal lies in its native interoperability across Kaseya-owned solutions such as Datto and ID Agent, streamlining administration and improving threat response. Kaseya’s platform also accommodates integration with legacy systems via APIs and scripting modules. Its roadmap includes enhanced interoperability for third-party cybersecurity tools and compliance systems, making it suitable for MSPs managing hybrid infrastructures or transitioning from siloed toolsets. Key Features:- Integrated suite combining endpoint management, user security, and operational tools
- Includes Datto for backup, Graphus for phishing defence, and BullPhish ID for security training
- Automation of routine tasks and workflows
- Centralised dashboard for monitoring and management
- Reduces complexity by consolidating multiple tools into a single platform
- Cost savings compared to maintaining separate solutions
- Enhanced security and compliance features
- Initial setup may be complex due to the breadth of features
- Some integrations may require additional configuration
How to Evaluate MSP Tools & Features Before You Commit
Choosing tools can feel overwhelming with so many options available. Before investing, ask yourself:- What specific services do we deliver to clients today, and what do we plan to offer?
- How well does this tool integrate with our current systems?
- Is there open API access or scripting support for automation?
- Does the pricing model scale with our business growth?
- How strong is vendor support and community documentation?
- Are security, compliance, and data sovereignty covered?