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Apple Remote Desktop

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Company health

Employee growth
11% increase in the last year
Web traffic
1% decrease in the last quarter
Financing
December 2020 - $1B

Ratings

G2
4.3/5
(51)
Glassdoor
4.1/5
(43979)

Apple Remote Desktop description

Apple Remote Desktop is a software solution designed for businesses to manage Apple devices within their network. It allows IT administrators to remotely control Mac computers, install and update software, provide real-time assistance to users, and generate reports on hardware and software inventory. While best for managing Macs, it can also control devices running Windows, Linux, and UNIX systems.


Who is Apple Remote Desktop best for

Apple Remote Desktop streamlines Apple device management for IT administrators. Its intuitive interface simplifies remote control, software deployment, and hardware/software inventory reporting. Users praise its easy setup and seamless Mac integration, while some note network dependency and cost. Best for organizations with a significant number of Apple devices.

  • Ideal for small to medium-sized businesses (1-1000 employees), especially those with a predominantly Apple ecosystem.

  • Best fit for Education and Software/IT/Telecommunications, but also suitable for other sectors like Healthcare, Finance, and Legal.


Apple Remote Desktop features

Supported

Apple Remote Desktop enables efficient distribution of software packages to remote Mac systems.

Supported

Apple Remote Desktop allows IT administrators to provide real-time online assistance to end-users.

Supported

Apple Remote Desktop facilitates the creation of detailed reports on software and hardware inventory.

Supported

Apple Remote Desktop supports the automation of routine management tasks.

Supported

Apple Remote Desktop enables IT administrators to remotely control and monitor Mac computers.

Supported

Apple Remote Desktop facilitates remote management of system power states, including locking screens, sleeping, waking, restarting, and shutting down Mac systems.

Supported

Apple Remote Desktop allows for the remote execution of UNIX shell scripts or commands on client systems.


Apple Remote Desktop reviews

We've summarised 51 Apple Remote Desktop reviews (Apple Remote Desktop G2 reviews) and summarised the main points below.

Pros of Apple Remote Desktop
  • Easy setup and intuitive user interface.
  • Seamless remote control and management of Macs.
  • Useful features like screen sharing, monitoring, and file transfer.
  • Built-in with Apple ID for easy connection to other Macs.
  • Batch commands and software deployment capabilities.
Cons of Apple Remote Desktop
  • Network issues can cause slow access speeds.
  • VLAN compatibility issues, particularly with Bonjour discovery.
  • Requires a strong internet connection, ideally 30-40mbps.
  • Limited control options during remote sessions.
  • High cost and lack of enterprise features

Apple Remote Desktop alternatives

  • Logo of Addigy
    Addigy
    Effortless Apple device management for streamlined IT.
    Read more
  • Logo of SimpleMDM
    SimpleMDM
    Easy Apple device management for any size team.
    Read more
  • Logo of datajar.mobi
    datajar.mobi
    Effortless Apple device management for businesses, simplified.
    Read more
  • Logo of Kandji
    Kandji
    Effortless Apple device management and security for modern businesses.
    Read more
  • Logo of PDQ Connect
    PDQ Connect
    Remotely control, patch, and manage computers with ease.
    Read more
  • Logo of Scalefusion
    Scalefusion
    Secures and manages company devices, boosting productivity.
    Read more

Apple Remote Desktop FAQ

  • What is Apple Remote Desktop and what does Apple Remote Desktop do?

    Apple Remote Desktop is a software solution for managing Apple devices in a business setting. It enables IT administrators to remotely control Macs, install software, provide user support, and generate reports. While optimized for Macs, it can also manage Windows, Linux, and UNIX systems.

  • How does Apple Remote Desktop integrate with other tools?

    Apple Remote Desktop integrates seamlessly with other Apple products and services, leveraging Apple ID for authentication and connection. It supports remote execution of UNIX shell scripts, extending its functionality through command-line tools. It lacks direct integration with third-party management platforms.

  • What the main competitors of Apple Remote Desktop?

    Top alternatives to Apple Remote Desktop include Addigy, ManageEngine Endpoint Central, TeamViewer, N-able N-central, InvGate Insight, and Jamf Now. These competitors offer similar remote management capabilities, often with broader platform support or enhanced features.

  • Is Apple Remote Desktop legit?

    Yes, Apple Remote Desktop is a legitimate software offered by Apple Inc. It's safe to use for managing Apple devices, though users report occasional network issues and limited control options during remote sessions. It's known for easy setup and seamless remote management of Macs.

  • How much does Apple Remote Desktop cost?

    Apple Remote Desktop is priced at $99 for a one-time purchase, allowing management of up to 100 Macs. There is no subscription plan or free trial available. Whether it's worth it depends on your specific needs for remote management.

  • Is Apple Remote Desktop customer service good?

    Apple Remote Desktop's customer service receives positive feedback. Users praise the support team's helpfulness and problem-solving abilities, leading to high satisfaction and a great overall experience. Some users found setup to be tedious, requiring reliance on forums and tech support.


Reviewed by

MK
Michal Kaczor
CEO at Gralio

Michal has worked at startups for many years and writes about topics relating to software selection and IT management. As a former consultant for Bain, a business advisory company, he also knows how to understand needs of any business and find solutions to its problems.

TT
Tymon Terlikiewicz
CTO at Gralio

Tymon is a seasoned CTO who loves finding the perfect tools for any task. He recently headed up the tech department at Batmaid, a well-known Swiss company, where he managed about 60 software purchases, including CX, HR, Payroll, Marketing automation and various developer tools.

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