Remote work has become the main option for a large number of companies. However, for it to be effective, we often find ourselves needing to access our work computer from wherever we are. To solve this, we can rely on ConnectWise Control (formerly known as ScreenConnect), a remote access and support software that allows IT teams and companies to connect to devices from afar securely and efficiently. 

What is ConnectWise ScreenConnect? The perfect tool for IT teams

With a score of 8.8 out of 10, based on various tests and interviews with companies that have tried this application, we can conclude that ConnectWise ScreenConnect is a perfect tool for IT teams that need quick, secure, and reliable remote access. This application provides seamless technical support and enables effortless remote device management.

We also believe it is a very good option for managed service providers (MSPs) looking for a reliable solution to offer remote support to multiple clients. Although there are alternatives on the market with similar ratings, ConnectWise ScreenConnect has several interesting advantages, such as its high level of security with advanced encryption and its integration with other IT management tools.

In addition, it stands out for its high satisfaction rate among users, with 96% approval for remote access and a 92% recommendation rate, surpassing many competing options. Its technical support is also highly valued, with an 89% positive rating, making this software a reliable choice for most companies.

Is ConnectWise ScreenConnect a secure tool? Viruses and software vulnerabilities

Remote access and support software is very delicate when it comes to security. Being a free and direct pathway to manage computers remotely, they are often perceived as a perfect loophole for hackers to introduce viruses or malware into our devices.

In fact, in 2024, an attack was discovered where cybercriminals used the Windows version of ScreenConnect as a route to implement AsyncRAT and SectopRAT malware on victims' computers. Once they were able to take control of their devices, they proceeded to steal a large amount of personal and banking data, including credit card numbers.

However, the platform announced that they took all necessary measures to address these threats, so we can confirm that, as of now, ConnectWise ScreenConnect is a secure tool free from viruses and ransomware attacks.

Currently, all remote connection sessions are protected with 256-bit AES encryption, ensuring that transmitted data cannot be intercepted or manipulated by third parties. Furthermore, to enhance security, ConnectWise ScreenConnect allows for two-factor authentication (2FA), preventing unauthorized access to our devices even if a password is compromised.

They also ensure that the software logs each remote access session, including details such as the user who initiated the connection, the duration, and the actions performed. And to prevent unsupervised access, ConnectWise ScreenConnect allows for configuring inactivity times after which the session automatically closes.

What is the best part of ConnectWise ScreenConnect?

After analyzing it, we can clearly say that the best part of ConnectWise ScreenConnect is its solid performance in remote access. Connections are fast and stable, allowing IT teams and MSPs to manage devices without interruptions and in just a few clicks. In other words, it feels like you are using your PC directly, without too many issues regarding fluidity or efficiency.

Users highlight its ease of use and security, with high satisfaction in both aspects. And although some options offer more customization, ConnectWise ScreenConnect fulfills its purpose well: to provide secure and effective remote access for IT teams.

What is the worst part of ConnectWise ScreenConnect?

However, there is something that significantly turns users away from ConnectWise ScreenConnect: its price. Many consider its cost to be very high, especially in comparison with alternatives like AnyDesk or TeamViewer, whose ratings in our reviews are similar.

Thus, although this application offers advanced features and good stability, the price can be a barrier, especially for small businesses or teams with tight budgets.

Another area for improvement is customization. Although it is a solid application in terms of functionality, the options for adapting it to specific needs are much more limited than in other solutions.

Moreover, it has a fairly high initial learning curve, which the program does not help to alleviate. Therefore, if you are looking for a highly configurable tool or one with more training resources, it is better to opt for some of its alternatives.

Do we recommend ConnectWise ScreenConnect?

Despite the previous analyses, we can confirm that ConnectWise ScreenConnect remains one of the best options for larger companies and IT teams looking for solid performance in their systems. In terms of speed and stability, few tools match ConnectWise ScreenConnect. Therefore, of course, we recommend it. 

The keys to ConnectWise ScreenConnect: Its main features

ConnectWise ScreenConnect has earned our trust thanks to a combination of solid performance, advanced security, and compatibility with devices. Below, we present what we consider to be the main features of the software:

100% efficient remote control

One of the strengths of ConnectWise ScreenConnect is that it allows technicians to remotely access a device, whether or not the user is online. This greatly facilitates offering assistance and sending commands remotely, as there is no need to wait for someone to be in front of the machine. With 96% satisfaction in this aspect, the tool offers fast and stable connections, ensuring that technical support can be provided without cuts or delays.

Good security and compliance

Despite past slips, security has become a priority for this software. The program features advanced encryption, session logging, and role-based access controls. These features ensure that only authorized users can access devices, minimizing risks and ensuring compliance with regulations such as HIPAA, GDPR, and SOC 2.

Very satisfactory customer support

Unlike much of its competition, the customer service of this application is another of its strong points, with an average satisfaction rate of 89%. Users highlight the speed and effectiveness of the support, which is crucial for companies that rely on remote access to manage their operations.

Intuitive and easy-to-use interface

Although some users note its complex initial learning curve, 88% of respondents highlight its ease of use. The interface of ConnectWise ScreenConnect is accessible and well-organized, despite its limited customization options.

Great performance and variety of features

More than 89% of users highlight the quality of the features and the integration with other IT tools. Additionally, it adapts to Mac and Linux operating systems, beyond just Windows.

Pros and cons of ConnectWise ScreenConnect 

If you are considering switching to ConnectWise ScreenConnect, we invite you to discover the biggest advantages and disadvantages you will find in this remote access and support program. We outline its pros and cons based on user feedback:

Pros of ScreenConnect

• It is the number 1 application in the remote support category, out of 13 total options. It won't let you down.
• Those who try it recommend it. 88% of all users are satisfied with its results, and 92% would recommend it.
• Connections are secure and stable. Forget about sudden drops or possible viruses and malware slipping through the program's loopholes. ConnectWise ScreenConnect is currently a completely secure alternative. It includes 256-bit data encryption along with two-factor authentication (2FA).
• Wide range of features. Beyond remote control of other computers, ConnectWise ScreenConnect allows you to record sessions, generate detailed reports, and even manage team access based on roles.
• Large number of integrations. ScreenConnect allows you to connect to a broad ecosystem of third-party services to enhance its functionality.
• Simple and intuitive user interface. It is accessible for all types of users, regardless of their prior knowledge.
• Cross-platform. Supports Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android devices.

Cons of ScreenConnect

• Although it has some customization options (it ranks 3rd in this regard), it is still far from reaching the level of its main competitors in this aspect.
• Its price is higher than that of most of its competitors.
• The availability of training could improve. Only 50% of customers are completely satisfied with this aspect.
• Despite its usability, its email notification system is not easy to configure.
• At times, it presents black screen errors in its user account control (UAC) function.

Reasons to switch to ConnectWise ScreenConnect or leave the platform

We have analyzed the usage of ConnectWise ScreenConnect users and reached the following conclusions regarding those who switch to or abandon the platform. Note that only 30% of users who switched are more satisfied with their alternatives.

Why companies adopt ConnectWise ScreenConnect in their business

• Greater reliability and closeness than other similar platforms. Its team of professionals is more prominent.
• Greater sense of security than others.
• Advanced remote support features.

Why companies abandon the use of ConnectWise ScreenConnect 

• Higher price plan than on other platforms.
• Their features do not meet their business needs.

How much does ConnectWise ScreenConnect cost? Plans, prices, and discounts

This is undoubtedly the pending issue with ConnectWise ScreenConnect. While many of its competitors offer fixed plans and prices, even with free options for individual users, reaching the prices of ConnectWise ScreenConnect can become an odyssey. For this, we first need to choose between its two main products, Remote Support and Remote Access.

The main plans for ScreenConnect Remote Support are:

• One: (33.67€/month or 314.22€/year) Includes 1 user license with support features for multiple monitors, live chat, remote support, file transfer, remote printing, remote tools, specialist mobile technician, branding and customization options, and 10 sessions of access to unattended devices.
• Standard: (52.37€/month or 482.71€/year) Total price per technician. Includes all options from the One plan plus backstage, remote control line, wake-on-LAN, session recording, VoIP audio, compatibility for Android and iOS, and unlimited access to unattended devices.
• Premium: (61.73€/month or 594.85€/year) Total price per technician. Includes all options from the Standard plan plus video audits, custom report generation, remote diagnostic tools, and shared camera.

ScreenConnect also allows for ScreenConnect Remote Access. Its functions are designed to cover the IT department's needs of a large business, but with less emphasis on remote support features. Its prices range from 29€ per month (399€ per year) to 578.96€ per month (or 724.81€ per year), depending on the number of agents needed.

According to our data, 20% of companies received a discount on their purchase or renewal, which is significant considering that IT teams spend an average of 30,000€ per year on these services.

Lastly, it is important to highlight that all ScreenConnect products and plans come with a 14-day trial version. To access them, it is not necessary to share our credit card number, making it a good option to see if it fits our needs.

Implementation, training, and documentation

If your company decides to implement ConnectWise ScreenConnect, you should know that the configuration process is quite simple and does not require too many resources. In fact, 87% of users indicate that the installation was easy and without major issues.

Moreover, the learning curve does not seem to be a problem, as 66% of companies have not needed to invest in training. 

However, compared to other options in the market, the training materials and documentation could be more comprehensive, as some users feel that the available information does not cover all advanced features in depth.

Customer service is impeccable

The technical support of ConnectWise ScreenConnect works really well, and that is reflected in its 89% satisfaction rate. We have found that if a problem arises, we can contact them via phone, chat, or email, and the response is usually quick and effective.

There are no long waits or unnecessary back-and-forth, which makes resolving any issue much easier. They can even help you if what you need is to uninstall it.

What is the best alternative to ConnectWise ScreenConnect?

Despite having a fairly high score in our analysis, it is true that ConnectWise ScreenConnect has several equally or more interesting alternatives in the market. The main ones are as follows:

TeamViewer

TeamViewer can be a better option for those looking for a more accessible and user-friendly solution. Unlike ConnectWise ScreenConnect, TeamViewer offers a free model for personal use and more flexible plans for businesses, making it a perfect alternative for small businesses or teams with tight budgets. Additionally, its setup process is simpler and does not require such specific infrastructure.

Another advantage of TeamViewer is its greater compatibility and cross-platform functionality. This program supports a wide variety of devices and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, with an optimized experience for each one.

AnyDesk

AnyDesk is an attractive option for those seeking a lighter, faster, and more affordable remote access tool. Compared to ConnectWise ScreenConnect, AnyDesk excels in its low resource consumption, allowing smooth connections even on networks with limited bandwidth. Furthermore, its pricing model is more accessible, with plans that are significantly cheaper, making it an ideal option for small businesses and individual users.

Dameware Remote Support vs ConnectWise ScreenConnect

Beyond TeamViewer and AnyDesk, there are other interesting alternatives to ScreenConnect. Dameware Remote Support is one of them. Both offer advanced functions for IT administrators, but they have somewhat different focuses and features.

While ConnectWise ScreenConnect is primarily designed for managed service providers (MSPs), IT teams, and technical support, Dameware Remote Support is more geared towards corporate environments with internal IT infrastructure, standing out for its system administration options.

Dameware allows technicians to remotely restart devices, manage Active Directory permissions, and access systems without needing a user to be logged in. However, if you need a flexible, secure, and easy-to-implement solution for remote support, ConnectWise ScreenConnect is the best option.

Bomgar Remote Support vs ConnectWise ScreenConnect

Another interesting competition arises between ConnectWise ScreenConnect and Bomgar Remote Support. In this case, we must clarify that we are dealing with a different level of tool. Bomgar Remote Support focuses on companies with high security and compliance standards.

It stands out for its VPN-less architecture, allowing remote access without opening ports in the firewall, thus reducing cybersecurity risks. Moreover, its credential management system enhances access protection, a key advantage for organizations handling sensitive data.

However, ConnectWise ScreenConnect is a more suitable, logical, and affordable option for most companies.

Our conclusions: Do we recommend ConnectWise ScreenConnect?

After analyzing ConnectWise ScreenConnect, we believe it is a reliable and powerful option for IT teams, MSPs, and companies that need stable and secure remote support. It is a tool that works flawlessly, its performance is top-notch, and it offers multiple layers of protection (256-bit encryption and two-factor authentication) that give us peace of mind.

That said, it is not the best option for everyone. Its price is higher than that of some alternatives, such as AnyDesk or TeamViewer. Additionally, customization is somewhat limited and requires you to adapt to the tool.  Even so, we cannot do anything but recommend ConnectWise ScreenConnect in most cases.