8 Best Remote Desktop Monitoring Software

Remote desktop monitoring software allows IT administrators and business owners to access, control, and monitor computers remotely over a network connection. This software is crucial for ensuring productivity, security, and effective management of IT resources.

By providing functionalities like live viewing of desktop activities, remote control for support, and detailed reporting on user activities, remote desktop monitoring tools help businesses maintain operational efficiency and safeguard sensitive information.

Why is employee monitoring software important?

1. Employee productivity tracking: Employee monitoring systems let managers track how employees spend their work hours, including monitoring active and idle times, applications used, and websites visited. This data helps identify productive patterns, recognize top performers, and address inefficiencies.
   
2. Security enhancements: These remote employee monitoring software often include security features such as real-time screen monitoring, keystroke logging, and application usage tracking, helping to detect and prevent unauthorized activities and protecting sensitive business information.
   
3. Employee accountability: Monitoring tools promote accountability by providing a transparent view of employee activities. When employees know their work is being monitored, they are more likely to stay focused and productive.
   
4. Performance management: Analyzing data collected through remote employee monitoring tools allows managers to provide targeted feedback and support to employees, improving individual and team performance and addressing issues like burnout and fatigue.

In this article, we’ll explore the best remote desktop monitoring tools and outline their benefits and drawbacks to help you decide which suits your business needs best.

Key features of remote computer monitoring software

Remote employee monitoring software has various features to enhance employee productivity, security, and management efficiency. Here are some of the key features you should look for when selecting the right tool for your business:

1. Real-time monitoring

Real-time monitoring allows managers to see live updates on employee activities, providing immediate insight into what team members are working on. This feature helps manage remote teams and ensure that employees stay on task, enabling prompt identification and resolution of any issues.

2. Screen capture

Screen capture functionality periodically takes screenshots of an employee’s desktop, offering a visual record of their activities. This can be useful for auditing purposes, understanding how employees interact with their work environment, and providing visual evidence in case of disputes.

3. Employee activity monitoring 

Monitoring employee activities includes application usage, websites visited, and time spent on various tasks. This detailed user activity monitoring helps analyze work patterns, identify employee productivity bottlenecks, and ensure remote desktop protocol is followed.

4. Reporting capabilities

Comprehensive remote employee monitoring software provides detailed insights into employee performance and employee productivity trends. Reports can be customized to show data relevant to specific projects, teams, or periods, aiding in better decision-making and strategic planning.

5. Time tracking

Time tracking features help monitor employees’ time on different tasks and projects. This is crucial for accurate billing, payroll processing, and assessing the efficiency of workflows.

6. Project management integration

Integration with project management tools allows for seamless project progress and resource allocation tracking. This helps in aligning employee activities with project goals and timelines.

7. Application and URL tracking

Monitoring the applications and websites employees use provides insights into their work habits and helps identify non-work-related activities affecting productivity.

8. Payroll integration

Automated payroll integration simplifies calculating employee wages based on tracked hours, reducing administrative overhead and ensuring timely payments.

9. Geofencing

Geofencing features track the location of employees, which is particularly useful for field teams. This ensures that employees are where they need to be during working hours and helps in accurate time logging.

Comparison chart of top remote employee monitoring

Here’s a comparison chart highlighting the key features of some top remote computer monitoring software, including Hubstaff:

Feature	Hubstaff	Teramind	ActivTrak	Toggl	DeskTime	SoftActivity	Monitask	VeriClock
Real-Time Monitoring	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️
Screen Capture	✔️ (Optional)	✔️	✔️	❌	✔️	✔️	✔️	❌
Activity Logging	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	❌
Reporting	✔️ (Customizable)	✔️ (Advanced)	✔️ (Comprehensive)	✔️ (Basic)	✔️ (Detailed)	✔️ (Comprehensive)	✔️ (Basic)	✔️ (Timesheets with Signature Requests)
Time Tracking	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️
Project Management	✔️ (Integrations)	✔️ (Basic)	✔️ (Basic)	✔️ (Basic)	✔️ (Advanced)	❌	❌	❌
Application Tracking	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	❌
URL Tracking	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	❌
Payroll Integration	✔️	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌
Geofencing	✔️	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌

Case study: OneIMS boosts value offered to customers by 30% with Hubstaff

Industry: Marketing Agency
Employees: 100
Employees using Hubstaff: 50
Hubstaff users since 2015

Enhancing remote work with Hubstaff

OneIMS, a U.S.-based marketing agency, significantly improved employee productivity and customer value by leveraging Hubstaff. Embracing remote work allowed OneIMS to manage its dispersed team effectively and streamline operations.

Solomon Thimothy, President and Founder of OneIMS, says:
“We love remote. We love work-from-home. We love the flexibility it offers. It occurred to me that this was a good thing. I realized I needed to build a thriving business no matter where my team was.”

Supporting new hiring and growth

Hubstaff enabled OneIMS to scale its workforce efficiently, supporting a diverse global talent pool without constant supervision. The software provided insights into new hires’ capabilities and ensured productivity.

Solomon explains:
“Working in different time zones is okay. We don’t care where you live if you’re good and get the job done. We use time tracking for international teams for payroll purposes to ensure productivity.”

Unique advantages of Hubstaff

Hubstaff offered unique advantages, such as remote productivity monitoring and valuable data for improving operations and supporting team members.

Solomon states:
“Hubstaff helps us hire and have people all over, which protects my business. It also provides data that we can use to improve operations or check in on people.”

Streamlining onboarding

Hubstaff significantly simplified the onboarding process, allowing new hires to start working quickly and efficiently.

Solomon shares:
“Onboarding is so easy with Hubstaff. It does the work of one full-time person for payroll and onboarding.”

Benefits for long-term employees

Hubstaff helped OneIMS identify top performers and those needing further coaching, enabling better management and employee career growth.

Solomon notes:
“Hubstaff helps our managers know who the A, B, and C Players are. We’re looking to promote people, and this helps us know them.”

Impact on clients

Hubstaff’s efficiency translates to better service for OneIMS’s clients by reducing managerial layers and administrative burdens.

Solomon concludes:
“Hubstaff easily adds 30% to the value my customers receive due to the structure we can use. I don’t need to hire that upper or middle manager to handle things.”

Future growth

Looking ahead, OneIMS plans to integrate AI capabilities into its offerings, enhancing value and staying competitive by automating tasks and providing greater returns on clients’ budgets.

Solomon explains:
“For my industry right now, if we don’t change and add value for our customers, AI can do the job for almost free. We want to do more with less, remove the monotonous work, and automate.”

Read the full case study.

By leveraging remote employee monitoring software like Hubstaff, businesses like OneIMS have successfully enhanced their operational efficiency, offered greater value to their customers, and facilitated a productive remote work environment. If you want to discover how remote computer monitoring software can benefit your business, consider giving Hubstaff a trial today.

In-depth review of the top eight remote desktop monitoring software 

1. Hubstaff

Hubstaff is a workforce management tool with several productivity features, such as time tracking, activity monitoring, and advanced workforce analytics. The app helps remote, hybrid and in-office teams be more efficient by enabling meaningful, focused work. GPS and geofencing features also make it great for teams out in the field.

Features

• Real-time monitoring provides live updates on employee activities. 
• Screen capture is an optional feature that can be customized per user. 
• Activity logging tracks app, URL usage, and idle and active times.
• Generate detailed reports customizable for detailed insights. 
• Time tracking that includes project and task-specific employee time tracking.
• Payroll integration based on tracked hours. 
• Geofencing technology that logs work hours based on employee location.

Reasons to buy 

Hubstaff’s comprehensive suite makes it a highly versatile tool. It works well for small businesses needing basic employee time tracking, enterprise teams looking for advanced monitoring and productivity tools, and anyone in between. The app is compact and straightforward, making it easy for team members to track time while Hubstaff handles reporting, automated timesheets, and team payments. Additionally, the Insights add-on provides in-depth productivity metrics like performance trends, meetings, focus time, and more.

Reasons to avoid 

Hubstaff doesn’t offer extensive monitoring features like real-time screen recording and file access monitoring. If these features are crucial to your workflow, you might need to consider other apps. Hubstaff focuses on trust and transparency, which might not align with every business’s needs.

Price

• Free ($0 per user/month)
• Starter ($7 per user/month)
• Grow ($9 per user/month)
• Team ($12 per user/month)
• Enterprise (Custom pricing available upon request)

Hubstaff also offers add-ons to enhance your workflow:

• Insights ($2 per user/month)
• Tasks ($3 per user/month)
• Data retention ($2 per user/month)
• More screenshots ($3 per user/month)

For more details, check out our pricing page.

2. Toggl

Toggl simplifies managing teams with its intuitive desktop monitoring features. The app generates helpful reports and activity data that teams can use to gauge performance and optimize their work.

Key features

• Real-time monitoring system with basic tracking features.
• Activity logging that tracks time spent on tasks and applications.  
• Basic reports for performance analysis.  
• User-friendly interface with a minimal learning curve.

Reasons to buy 

Toggl’s main selling point is its simplicity. With almost no learning curve, new users can start tracking their time immediately. This makes it great for freelancers and independent contractors with limited time for training. Toggl’s task management features and project timelines are valuable for basic project management needs.

Reasons to avoid 

Toggl lacks payroll and advanced activity monitoring features. While it’s a great time tracker with solid project management features, it’s not a comprehensive employee monitoring tool.

Pricing

• Free ($0 per user/month)
• Starter ($10 per user/month)
• Premium ($20 per user/month)
• Enterprise pricing is available upon request.

3. SoftActivity

SoftActivity is a cloud-based remote employee monitoring solution with time tracking and reporting capabilities. With the ability to see real-time snapshots, SoftActivity offers high-level activity monitoring that separates it from other remote employee monitoring software on the market.

Features

• Real-time monitoring with the ability to see real-time snapshots. 
• Real-time screenshots are captured.
• Activity tracking of keystrokes and other activities. 
• Reporting, including comprehensive activity reports.
• Security on email and file monitoring.

Reasons to buy 

SoftActivity’s biggest advantage is its extensive ability to collect employee data, including logon, logoff, and idle times. This level of control is ideal for businesses requiring detailed monitoring.

Reasons to avoid 

SoftActivity’s high cost ($239.97 for three users for one year) might deter smaller businesses. It also lacks integration capabilities and doesn’t offer refunds, which can be a financial risk if you switch to remote employee monitoring tools later.

Pricing

• One year: $239.97
• Two years: $308.97
• Three years: $368.97

4. ActivTrak

ActivTrak offers employee monitoring features that emphasize performance data and analytics. It provides metrics like the number of productive hours worked by each employee and location-based productivity data.

Features

• Real-time visibility into employee activities. 
• Periodic screenshots for visual activity records. 
• Tracks user activity, app usage, and website visits. 
• Comprehensive analytics and detailed reports. 
• Productivity coaching and location-based insights.

Reasons to buy 

ActivTrak’s extensive analytics tools and customization give you a comprehensive view of your team’s productivity. It’s ideal for businesses looking to analyze specific teams’ productivity or employee workload capacity.

Reasons to avoid 

ActivTrak needs workforce management tools like PTO management, invoicing, and payroll. It’s great for analytics but requires additional apps for administrative tasks.

Pricing

• Freemium: $0
• Advanced: $9 per user/month (annually)
• Premium: $15 per user/month (annually)
• Contact sales for enterprise pricing options.

5. Monitask

Monitask tracks your employees’ clock-in and clock-out times and working hours to understand your organization’s time usage better. Its activity monitoring feature helps you see productive or unproductive apps to identify employee strengths or areas for improvement.

Features

• Real-time monitoring provides basic real-time tracking.
• Screen capture takes periodic screenshots.
• Activity logging tracks both productive and unproductive apps.
• Reporting includes basic reporting features.
• Simplicity ensures the system is user-friendly and affordable.

Reasons to buy 

Monitask is one of the more affordable options, starting at $5.99/month per user. It offers core desktop monitoring capabilities, making it great for smaller businesses.

Reasons to avoid 

Monitask needs budgeting, invoicing, or payroll capabilities, making it less ideal for those working with clients or freelancers. It also doesn’t have mobile apps for tracking field employees.

Pricing

• Pro: $5.99 per user/month
• Business: $8.99 per user/month
• Enterprise: Contact sales

6. VeriClock

VeriClock is a time management and attendance tracking tool that accurately tracks time to tasks and projects. Employees can clock in via the web, mobile app, SMS, or phone.

Features

• Real-time monitoring provides accurate time tracking.
• Screen capture is not available.
• Activity logging is limited to time and attendance.
• Reporting includes timesheets with signature requests.
• Simplicity offers multiple clock-in methods.

Reasons to buy 

VeriClock ensures employees are where they need to be with multiple ways to clock in, location tracking, and real-time alerts.

Reasons to avoid 

VeriClock’s monitoring capabilities are limited to tracking when and where employees work without providing activity data or advanced metrics.

Pricing

• $10 per month account fee plus $5 per user

7. DeskTime

DeskTime uses time and activity tracking to identify employees performing well or struggling. It also tracks project spending to help you make better resource management decisions.

Features

• Real-time monitoring tracks real-time activities and productivity.
• Screen capture takes periodic screenshots to monitor employee activity.
• Activity logging logs time spent on tasks, applications, and websites.
• Reporting provides detailed reports on employee performance and project costs.
• Shift scheduling includes tools for managing employee schedules.

Reasons to buy 

DeskTime offers a balanced desktop monitoring suit, with time tracking, activity monitoring, and reporting to gauge team performance.

Reasons to avoid 

DeskTime needs more project budgeting, payroll, and invoicing, making it suitable for internal monitoring but lacking in many other areas.

Pricing

• Pro: $7 per user/month
• Premium: $10 per user/month
• Enterprise: $10 per user/month

8. Teramind

Teramind is one of the most extensive desktop monitoring tools, offering features ranging from basic monitoring functions to advanced ones, such as remote desktop control and email monitoring.

Features

• Real-time monitoring offers comprehensive live monitoring features.
• Screen capture includes real-time screen recording and periodic screenshots.
• Activity logging provides detailed logging of keystrokes, applications, and web usage.
• Reporting features advanced tools with custom alerts and rules.
• Security focus emphasizes sensitive data loss prevention and insider threat detection.

Reasons to buy 

Teramind provides comprehensive monitoring to ensure high workplace security. It’s designed to monitor every aspect of work, making it suitable for companies needing complete control over team members.

Reasons to avoid 

Teramind’s invasive monitoring features, like real-time screen recording and remote desktop control, may be excessive for some businesses. Its basic plan is also more expensive than other apps, starting at $15/user per month with a minimum of five users.

Pricing

• Teramind Starter: $11.25 (1 seat per month)
• Teramind UAM: $22.50 (1 seat per month)
• Teramind DLP: $26.25 (1 seat per month)
• Enterprise pricing is available.

By considering each software’s key features, benefits, and drawbacks, you can choose the best remote desktop monitoring tool that fits your business needs.

Pros and cons of remote monitoring

Software	Pros	Cons
Hubstaff	– Comprehensive suite of productivity features  – Easy to use  – Customizable reports – GPS and geofencing – Automated payroll integration	– Lacks real-time screen monitoring – No keylogging  – No file access monitoring
Teramind	– Extensive monitoring features  – Real-time screen monitoring and recording  – Advanced reporting and analytics  – High-security focus	– More invasive monitoring – Higher cost – May be excessive for some businesses
ActivTrak	– Detailed productivity reports  – Real-time visibility  – Location-based insights  – Customizable alerts	– Lacks payroll and invoicing features  – Limited workforce management tools
Toggl	– Very user-friendly  – Minimal learning curve  – Great for freelancers and contractors  – Basic project management	– Lacks advanced monitoring features  – No payroll or invoicing  – Not a comprehensive monitoring tool
DeskTime	– Balanced monitoring suite  – Time and activity tracking  – Detailed reporting  – Shift scheduling	– Lacks project budgeting  – No payroll integration  – Limited to internal monitoring
SoftActivity	– Extensive data collection  – Real-time snapshots – Detailed activity logging  – High level of control	– High cost  – No integrations  – No refund policy
Monitask	– Affordable pricing  – Core monitoring features  – Easy to use  – Suitable for small businesses	– Lacks budgeting and payroll features  – No mobile apps  – Limited monitoring capabilities
VeriClock	– Multiple clock-in methods  – Location tracking  – Real-time alerts  – Accurate time tracking	– Limited to time and attendance tracking  – No activity data  – Basic monitoring capabilities

Free and open-source employee monitoring software

For businesses and individuals looking for cost-effective solutions, free and open-source remote computer monitoring software can be a viable option. These remote employee monitoring software often offer essential monitoring features without the high costs associated with premium software. Here’s an overview of some popular free and open-source options, along with their features and limitations.

1. Nagios

Nagios is a powerful open-source monitoring tool primarily used for network and infrastructure monitoring. It offers remote desktop monitoring capabilities through various plugins and add-ons.

Features:

• Real-time monitoring
• Extensive reporting
• Alerting and notifications
• Customizable dashboards
• Community support and plugins

Limitations:

• Steep learning curve
• Requires configuration and customization
• Limited user interface compared to paid solutions

2. Zabbix

Zabbix is an open-source monitoring software that provides comprehensive monitoring for networks, servers, virtual machines, and cloud services. It supports remote desktop monitoring through custom scripts and agents.

Features:

• Real-time monitoring
• Customizable alerts and notifications
• Data visualization and reporting
• Scalable architecture
• Strong community support

Limitations:

• Requires technical expertise to set up and manage
• Limited out-of-the-box remote desktop monitoring features
• The user interface can be complex for beginners

3. PRTG Network Monitor (Free Version)

PRTG Network Monitor offers a free version that includes many of the features found in its paid version. It’s suitable for small to medium-sized businesses with limited monitoring needs.

Features:

• Real-time monitoring
• Customizable dashboards and reports
• Alerts and notifications
• Supports various sensors for monitoring
• Easy to set up and use

Limitations:

• The free version is limited to 100 sensors
• Advanced features require a paid license
• Limited scalability for large enterprises

4. Netdata

Netdata is an open-source monitoring tool designed for real-time performance and health monitoring of systems and applications. It’s lightweight and offers easy setup.

Features:

• Real-time performance monitoring
• Interactive web dashboard
• Easy installation and configuration
• Extensive plugin support
• Community-driven development

Limitations:

• Limited historical data storage
• Requires integration with other tools for long-term data retention
• Not as feature-rich as some paid solutions

Comparing free and open-source solutions to paid versions

While free and open-source employee  monitoring software provides many valuable features, there are some limitations compared to paid versions:

• Technical Expertise: Free and open-source tools often require a higher level of technical knowledge to set up and maintain.
• Support: Paid solutions typically offer professional support services, while free tools rely on community support.
• Advanced Features: Paid software usually includes advanced features such as detailed analytics, enhanced security options, and seamless integrations with other business tools.
• Scalability: Free versions may have limitations in scalability, making them less suitable for large enterprises with extensive monitoring needs.

Choosing between free/open-source and paid employee monitoring software depends on your specific requirements, technical capabilities, and budget. For businesses with limited resources or technical expertise, free and open-source tools can provide a solid foundation for monitoring activities. However, for more comprehensive and scalable solutions, investing in paid software might be the better option.

Buying guide: How to choose the right employee monitoring software

Selecting the most suitable employee monitoring software for your business can be challenging. Here are some crucial factors to consider to help you make the right decision:

1. Budget

Establish your budget for remote computer monitoring software. Since prices can vary widely, it’s crucial to find a solution that fits your financial constraints while offering the necessary features. Consider both the subscription cost and any additional fees for premium features or add-ons.

2. Business size

The size of your business will influence the type of monitoring software you need. Small businesses might require only basic features, while larger enterprises may need more advanced functionalities such as comprehensive reporting, scalability, and extensive user support.

3. Specific features needed

Identify the key features that are essential for your business. Common features include:

• Real-time monitoring provides live updates on employee activities.
• Screen capture takes periodic screenshots or records in real time.
• Activity logging details application usage, websites visited, and time spent on tasks.
• Reporting capabilities offer customizable reports that provide insights into productivity and performance.
• Time tracking monitors the time employees spend on various tasks and projects.
• Security features include tools such as keystroke logging, file access monitoring, and application tracking.
• Payroll integration automates payroll processing based on tracked hours.
• Geofencing provides location-based tracking for field employees.

4. Integration with other tools

Ensure that the software integrates seamlessly with other tools and systems your business utilizes. This might include project management software, payroll systems, or communication platforms. Good integration enhances workflow efficiency and reduces the time spent switching between different tools.

5. User-friendliness

Opt for software that is easy to set up and use. A steep learning curve can lead to frustration and reduced productivity. Look for solutions with intuitive interfaces and strong customer support to assist with any issues.

6. Scalability

Consider the scalability of the software. As your business grows, your monitoring needs may evolve. Choose a solution that can scale with your business, allowing for additional features and capacity as required.

7. Security and compliance

Security is crucial when it comes to monitoring software. Ensure that the tool complies with relevant data protection regulations and has robust security measures to protect sensitive information.

8. Trial periods and demos

Take advantage of free trials and demos. This allows you to test the software’s features and evaluate its suitability for your business before making a financial commitment.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select the employee monitoring software that best fits your business needs, enhancing productivity, security, and overall efficiency.

Choosing the best remote desktop monitoring software

Choosing the right remote computer monitoring software is essential for boosting productivity, security, and efficient management. This review has highlighted the top eight options, detailing their key features, pros, and cons.

When selecting a software solution, consider your budget, business size, necessary features, and integration capabilities. Look for user-friendly, scalable, and secure options that comply with relevant standards.

The right monitoring software will enhance efficiency, accountability, and overall success in your organization. With the appropriate tool, you can create a transparent and productive work environment that meets your current and future needs.

FAQ

Can a remote desktop be monitored?

Yes, a remote desktop can be monitored using employee monitoring software. These remote employee monitoring software allow administrators to track various activities on a remote computer, such as application usage, websites visited, time spent on tasks, and even desktop screenshots. Monitoring helps ensure productivity, security, and compliance with company policies.

How can I monitor another computer remotely?

You must install remote computer monitoring software on the target computer to monitor another computer remotely. Here are the general steps:

1. Choose software: Select a remote desktop monitoring tool that fits your needs.
2. Install software: Install the monitoring software on the computer you wish to monitor.
3. Configure settings: Set up the software according to your monitoring requirements, such as real-time monitoring, screen capture, and activity logging.
4. Access dashboard: Use the software’s dashboard or control panel to remotely view and analyze the monitored data.

What is remote monitoring software?

Remote monitoring software is a tool that allows you to observe and manage a computer or network from a different location. It provides functionalities such as real-time monitoring, screen capture, activity logging, time tracking, and reporting. These features help businesses ensure their remote workers are productive, secure, and adhering to company policies.

What features should I look for in remote computer monitoring software?

When choosing remote computer monitoring software, consider the following features:

• Real-time remote monitoring provides live updates on activities.
• Screen capture takes periodic or real-time screenshots.
• Activity logging includes detailed logs of application usage and websites visited.
• Reporting offers customizable reports for insights.
• Time tracking monitors the time spent on tasks.
• Security features include keystroke logging and file access monitoring.
• Integration ensures compatibility with other tools.
• Scalability allows the software to grow with your business.

Is remote desktop monitoring legal?

The legality of remote desktop monitoring depends on the jurisdiction and specific circumstances. Generally, it is legal for employers to monitor company-owned devices to ensure productivity and security. However, it’s essential to inform employees about the monitoring practices and comply with local privacy laws and regulations.

How does remote desktop monitoring software ensure data security?

Remote computer monitoring software often includes security features such as encrypted sensitive data transmission, secure access controls, and comprehensive logging of all activities. These features help protect sensitive information from unauthorized access and potential sensitive data breaches.

Can remote computer monitoring software be used for personal purposes?

While remote computer monitoring software is primarily designed for businesses, it can also be used for personal purposes, such as monitoring children’s online activities or managing home office setups. These tools are compatible with various operating systems, ensuring broad usability across different devices. However, it’s crucial to respect privacy and obtain consent where necessary.

By addressing these common questions, this FAQ section enhances the relevance and user engagement of the article, helping readers make informed decisions about remote computer monitoring software.