solarwinds-n-central-vs-solarwinds-remote-monitoring–management

Intro

Solarwinds N-central and Solarwinds RMM are both products used to map, monitor, and control computer networks, but each software offers slightly different features depending on the user’s needs. 

N-central offers network topology mapping to ease network troubleshooting and RMM features Mac monitoring and mobile self-service password reset capabilities. Both of these products are likely to be used by medium to large-sized businesses that need to track and maintain control over their networks and the devices that use them. 

Features

N-central and RMM are both very similar in their capabilities. Both products offer features like remote monitoring, remote access, patch management, and endpoint detection and response. 

N-central is slightly differentiated by its network mapping features and through a collaboration with Microsoft, its ability to switch between Microsoft 365 intune and N-central consoles. RMM’s main standout features are its abilities to monitor Mac and Windows devices on the same network, its documentation manager, and  NetPath which allows users to understand their network performance and infrastructure past a firewall, from source to destination.

Limitations

Once again, both of these tools are similar and this is reflected in issues experienced by reviewers. 

Users note that N-central’s reports are minimal and lack some customization. Some users also wish for better integrated scripting tools. Some users also describe the user interface as outdated with links not being where they expect them to be. Lastly, Some wish for improved security access, noting that while it has been improving, security access is not granular enough and they can’t grant specific enough permissions.  

RMM users mention patch management difficulties and some also find the user interface to be cluttered and outdated. Some RMM users feel that it is similar to N-central in that linked are not in the areas you might expect them to be.

Pricing

Both Solarwinds N-central and Solarwinds RMM offer 30-day free trials. To obtain further pricing information buyers will need to make an inquiry with Solarwinds.