Top 8 remote equipment management software in 2025

Managing employee devices when your team works from home offices across different cities or countries presents challenges that traditional IT departments never faced. 

You need to get laptops to new hires before their start date, keep devices secure from cyberattacks, handle repairs and replacements, and retrieve everything when employees leave, all without physical access to any of it.

The logistics alone can overwhelm small IT teams. Finding boxes, coordinating shipments, tracking returns, storing unused devices, and managing the entire equipment lifecycle remotely requires tools built specifically for distributed workforces.

That’s where remote equipment management software comes in. These platforms simplify the operational side of distributed work, while also reinforcing security controls that protect company data.

In this guide, I’ll walk through the best remote equipment management tools for 2025. From ordering and shipping to monitoring and retrieval, these are the tools I’d recommend to help IT managers and teams equip and protect a modern workforce.

What is remote equipment management?

Remote equipment management is the set of systems and practices companies use to manage devices for employees working beyond a traditional office. It covers laptops, phones, monitors, and other work-from-home equipment employees rely on to stay productive.

It goes far beyond just tracking where equipment is. Strong remote equipment management covers the full device lifecycle, including:

• Identifying what hardware employees need for their role

• Purchasing and shipping devices

• Setting up security configurations remotely

• Monitoring device health and software updates

• Providing IT support without physical access

• Retrieving equipment when employees leave or need replacements

For teams without a central office, this becomes essential infrastructure. Without the right systems, companies risk slow onboarding when devices arrive late, security gaps from unmonitored hardware, confusion over what’s in inventory, and data exposure when departing employees keep company devices.

Thankfully, modern remote management software automates many of these processes, integrating device procurement, mobile device management (MDM), inventory tracking, and logistics coordination into unified platforms that IT teams can manage from anywhere.

Ready to automate device logistics?

See Rippling

Quick comparison: Best remote equipment management tools at a glance

Methodology: How we chose the best remote equipment management tools

I evaluated remote equipment management platforms based on how well they solve the actual problems IT teams face when managing distributed devices:

• Remote-specific capabilities: Starting with features designed specifically for managing devices you can't physically access. This includes remote deployment, over-the-air configuration, remote monitoring and troubleshooting, automated security updates, and remote lock/wipe capabilities.

• Logistics integration: Because device management also involves moving physical hardware, I looked at whether platforms help with procurement, shipping coordination, return logistics, and warehousing, or if those tasks remain manual.

• Device lifecycle coverage: Complete solutions should cover every stage of the lifecycle, from procurement and setup through daily use to final retrieval. I paid attention to how consistently each platform supports all of these steps.

• Security and compliance: Remote devices create a broader attack surface, so I examined security features like automated patching, endpoint protection, encryption enforcement, and audit trails to see how well platforms maintain compliance outside office walls.

• Scalability and administration: I tested how administrative work scales as the workforce grows. The best platforms reduce routine maintenance tasks and keep visibility clear without requiring IT staff to increase in lockstep with device counts.

• Integration with existing systems: Remote equipment management rarely works in isolation. I checked how well each platform integrates with HR systems, security tools, helpdesk software, and other systems IT teams already use.

• Pricing transparency and structure: Finally, I considered pricing models make sense for distributed teams and whether costs are predictable as you scale. Some charge per device, others per user or technician, while some bundle equipment management into larger IT suites.

Top 8 remote equipment management tools

1. Rippling

Rippling takes a unique approach to remote equipment management by connecting device lifecycle management directly to your HR system. This integration means device management happens automatically as part of employee lifecycle events rather than requiring separate IT processes.

Why it stands out: The HR and device management integration eliminates coordination gaps that typically cause problems with remote equipment. When you hire someone through Rippling, the platform can automatically order their laptop and ship it to arrive before their start date. The device gets configured with the right applications and security settings based on their role, department, and location — all pulled from HR data.

This automation extends throughout employment. When someone gets promoted or changes departments, their device access and configurations update automatically. When they leave, Rippling automatically ships them a return box with prepaid label, tracks the return, wipes the device upon receipt, assesses its condition, and stores it in a secure warehouse for reassignment to the next hire.

Retrieve and store devices anywhere with ease

See Rippling

Rippling’s inventory management software handles the physical logistics that most MDM software ignores. The platform operates secure warehouses where you can store new and returned devices. Instead of maintaining your own IT closet or storage space, you manage your entire inventory remotely through the dashboard. You can see which devices are in stock, their condition status, and quickly reassign them to new employees with automated shipping.

Where it falls short: Rippling’s inventory management is powerful but can feel complex when setting up device coding, tracking rules, and workflows. It may take some initial configuration to get everything aligned, though support resources are available to guide the process.

Is it right for you? Rippling excels for growing companies where equipment management is part of broader employee operations. It's particularly valuable if you're frustrated by coordinating device procurement, shipping, and retrieval separately from your HR processes. The automation it provides becomes more valuable as your distributed team scales rapidly.

Feature snapshot

2. ManageEngine Endpoint Central

ManageEngine Endpoint Central provides endpoint security and IT management across Windows, Mac, and Linux devices with deep capabilities for patching, vulnerability management, and threat protection.

Why it stands out: The platform's automated patch management covers over 1,100 third-party applications alongside OS patches. The "set-and-forget" automation handles scanning, detecting, testing, and deploying patches without manual intervention. You can test patches on a testbed before broad deployment to ensure stability.

Where it falls short: The platform focuses heavily on security and monitoring, but doesn't handle the physical logistics of shipping, warehousing, or retrieving devices like more operationally-focused tools do. Organizations needing help with device procurement and logistics should look elsewhere or supplement with additional tools.

Is it right for you? Endpoint Central works well for organizations prioritizing security and compliance across distributed devices. If you need vulnerability management, automated patching, or compliance reporting, the platform delivers strong capabilities.

Feature snapshot

3. NinjaOne

NinjaOne provides unified endpoint management with per-device pricing that makes it attractive for organizations managing varying numbers of remote devices or MSPs handling multiple client environments.

Why it stands out: The platform's per-device pricing model scales efficiently from $3.75/month per endpoint for small deployments (50 or fewer devices) down to $1.50/month for large deployments (10,000+ endpoints). This flexibility works well for growing companies or MSPs whose device counts fluctuate.

Where it falls short: NinjaOne is designed with MSPs and sysadmins in mind. For internal IT teams that want automation tied to the employee lifecycle, it may feel reactive and admin-heavy.

Is it right for you? NinjaOne suits IT teams and MSPs that need remote monitoring and management with flexible pricing. 

Feature snapshot

4. Asset Panda

Asset Panda focuses on equipment and inventory lifecycle tracking with customizable workflows that adapt to how your organization operates, rather than forcing you into predefined processes.

Why it stands out: You can create custom attributes, fields, and workflows specific to your equipment management needs. This customization extends to the mobile app, which works offline and syncs when connectivity returns. Also, equipment tracking uses built-in barcode and QR code generation that you scan directly from mobile devices without needing separate scanning hardware. 

Where it falls short: Asset Panda excels at tracking and managing equipment lifecycle but doesn't provide the remote device monitoring, security features, or patch management that MDM platforms offer. You can track that a laptop is assigned to an employee and when it needs maintenance, but you can't remotely configure it, push software updates, or enforce security policies through Asset Panda alone.

Is it right for you? Asset Panda works well for organizations that need detailed equipment lifecycle tracking (beyond just computers) and work order management but handle device security and configuration through separate tools. 

Feature snapshot

5. Atera

Atera provides IT automation and remote monitoring with per-technician pricing that includes unlimited endpoints, making it attractive for internal IT departments and MSPs managing large device counts.

Why it stands out: Atera combines RMM tools, ticketing, and patch management in one solution. Its per-technician pricing model means you pay based on your IT team size rather than the number of devices you manage. This structure provides predictable costs even as your remote workforce and device count grows.

Where it falls short: The per-technician pricing benefits organizations with large device counts but can be expensive for small teams. If you only have one IT person managing 20 devices, you're paying $149/month regardless of device count, whereas per-device pricing might be cheaper.

Is it right for you? Atera suits internal IT departments and MSPs that manage many remote devices and want predictable pricing that doesn't scale with device count. If you have multiple technicians and hundreds of endpoints, the unlimited device model provides better economics than per-device pricing. 

Feature snapshot

6. N-central RMM

N-central RMM from N-able provides automation and flexibility designed specifically for MSPs and IT teams managing complex networks across multiple clients or locations. The platform emphasizes customization and control over simplicity.

Why it stands out: N-central combines a comprehensive rules engine for automating IT responses with built-in business intelligence reporting through embedded Power BI dashboards. For MSPs, it adds integrated EDR and managed EDR powered by SentinelOne, plus cloud-native protection with Cove Data Protection.

Where it falls short: Like other monitoring-focused platforms, N-central doesn't handle physical device logistics—procurement, shipping, or warehousing. You manage device performance through N-central but coordinate the physical movement of equipment separately.

Is it right for you? N-central suits MSPs and IT teams managing difficult and heterogeneous environments where customization and automation are essential. 

Feature snapshot

7. Snipe-IT

Snipe-IT takes a different approach as an open-source asset management platform that prioritizes transparency and eliminates vendor lock-in. The software has been actively developed since 2013 with over 12,000 commits and 330+ contributors.

Why it stands out: The software is free to download and self-host on any Linux, Windows, or Mac web server, with no limits on users or assets. It provides asset lifecycle tracking including checkout/checkin history, maintenance records, and warranty expiration alerts. Assets can be marked as requestable, allowing users to request equipment through the system.

Where it falls short: Self-hosting requires technical expertise to set up and maintain the server, handle upgrades, manage backups, and ensure security. While cloud hosting is available starting at $399/year, you lose the cost advantage of the free self-hosted option.

Is it right for you? Snipe-IT works well for organizations wanting complete control and transparency through open-source software. If you have technical resources to self-host and maintain the platform, you get good asset tracking without ongoing software costs. 

Feature snapshot

8. EZO (formerly EZOfficeInventory)

EZO provides visual asset intelligence with strong mobile capabilities designed to give teams real-time equipment tracking from anywhere. The platform recently rebranded from EZOfficeInventory to emphasize its evolution beyond basic office inventory.

Why it stands out: Built-in barcode and QR code generation eliminates the need for separate scanning hardware — you scan directly from your mobile device. The platform also supports RFID scanning for bulk asset identification, letting you scan large quantities of items in seconds using an external RFID reader.

Where it falls short: EZO focuses on simple asset tracking and inventory management rather than device configuration and security. 

Is it right for you? If your employees regularly work in areas with poor connectivity and need to track equipment across multiple locations, EZO's mobile app strengths become valuable. 

Feature snapshot

Stop chasing return boxes and shipments

See Rippling

6 best practices for managing remote employee devices

Managing remote employee devices takes more than shipping a laptop, it requires clear policies, the right tools, and consistent security practices:

1. Create clear policies

Document what equipment employees receive, their responsibilities for care and security, and how devices are handled when they leave. A strong policy should outline which devices are company-issued versus employee-supplied, acceptable use standards, security requirements, repair and replacement procedures, and the process for returns. Make the policy easy to access in your handbook or HR system. Review it during onboarding and require acknowledgment to confirm employees understand their responsibilities.

2. Choose between BYOD and company-issued devices

Decide whether to supply devices to remote employees or allow bring your own device (BYOD), as each choice has cost and security implications. Company-issued hardware offers stronger control with enforced encryption, security software, and remote wipe capabilities, but it also requires higher spending and ongoing logistics for procurement, shipping, and returns. 

BYOD reduces upfront costs but adds complexity, since personal devices need clear separation of work and personal data through mobile device management and containerization. Many organizations take a hybrid approach, so it’s important to document your BYOD policy and confirm your tools can support it.

3. Use mobile device management (MDM) software

MDM software gives you the remote configuration, monitoring, and security needed when you can’t physically access devices, making it essential infrastructure for remote teams. The best platforms support all major device types and provide features like remote lock and wipe, encryption enforcement, software distribution, and security monitoring. 

Look for solutions with zero-touch enrollment so new devices arrive pre-configured and ready to use. Strong integration is also key — your MDM should connect with your identity provider, security tools, and HR system to automate provisioning and deprovisioning as employees join or leave.

4. Implement security protocols

Remote devices expand the attack surface because they connect through home networks and public WiFi rather than a corporate network. Protect them by requiring VPN access, enforcing full-disk encryption, setting automatic screen locks, and enabling multi-factor authentication for all critical systems. 

Automated patching and endpoint protection help ensure devices stay secure and can respond to threats even when offline. Your management platform should also monitor devices continuously and alert you to outdated software, missing updates, or signs of compromise.

5. Train employees on device security

Even the strongest tools fail if employees don’t know how to use them, so provide security training tailored to remote work. Cover phishing awareness, safe use of company devices, and when VPN access is required. 

Keep training practical by showing how to report a lost device, respond to suspected malware, and handle company data securely. Include equipment-specific steps such as locking laptops when unattended and wiping devices properly if they are transferred or purchased after offboarding.

6. Monitor and update devices regularly

Device management is not a one-time setup. Ongoing monitoring and updates are essential to keep remote hardware secure and functional. Use your platform to track health indicators like storage, battery life, OS versions, and installed software, with automated alerts for issues that need attention. 

Schedule maintenance windows during off-hours to minimize disruption to employees. Regular audits help confirm devices are accounted for, security settings remain enforced, and unused software licenses are removed.

Simplify remote device management with Rippling

Managing remote devices becomes far easier when equipment management connects directly to employee data. Rippling closes the gaps between HR and IT that usually complicate device logistics.

With Rippling inventory management, the full device lifecycle is automated:

• Devices are ordered for new hires, configured with the right security and software, and shipped to arrive before their first day.

• Access rights and configurations update automatically as employees change roles.

• When employees leave, devices are locked, a return box is shipped and tracked, data is wiped upon receipt, and hardware is stored for reuse.

Security is built into this process. Device protection integrates with SentinelOne to deliver automated threat detection and remediation. Because Rippling understands your org chart from HR data, it can deliver contextual alerts — for example, flagging that devices in a specific department are facing threats rather than just listing affected machines. 

Behavioral detection also understands what “normal” looks like for each employee, spotting anomalies such as a marketing coordinator accessing engineering databases at odd hours from an unfamiliar location. Geographic and time-based rules are applied intelligently, distinguishing legitimate travel from impossible simultaneous logins across countries.

This automation scales as your workforce grows. You’re not chasing shipments, tracking down return boxes, or worrying about inventory. With Rippling’s inventory management software, devices are stored securely and managed remotely, removing the need for physical IT storage.

For organizations managing remote employees rather than just devices, Rippling shifts equipment management from a constant burden into an automated workflow that strengthens both efficiency and security.

FAQs on managing remote employee devices