N-able Review - Features, Pricing & Deals
N-able offers IT management tools and services designed for managed service providers (MSPs). The platform helps IT professionals monitor, manage, and secure their clients' systems, networks, and data through a comprehensive suite of solutions.
Originally established in 2000 as SolarWinds MSP, the company rebranded to N-able and now operates from its headquarters in Wakefield, Massachusetts. Their core offerings include remote monitoring and management (RMM) tools, data protection services, and security solutions that adapt to various business sizes and needs.
The product lineup features N-central, a customizable platform available both on-premise and in the cloud, alongside specialized tools like Take Control for remote support and N-able Backup for data protection. These solutions work together to help MSPs streamline their operations and better serve their customers.
While pricing varies based on specific needs and service levels, N-able offers flexible models including per-device, per-user, and tiered options. MSPs can choose from basic packages to comprehensive enterprise solutions, with additional services available as add-ons.
Who is N-able for?
N-able is perfectly suited for IT service providers who need comprehensive tools to manage multiple client networks efficiently while maintaining high security standards. The platform helps MSPs deliver better service, reduce response times, and scale their business operations without adding complexity.
- Growing MSP Owners who need to monitor and manage an expanding client base without hiring additional staff, thanks to its automation capabilities and multi-tenant design
- IT Security Specialists who require robust protection features across different platforms and devices to safeguard client data from modern threats
- Technical Support Teams who can resolve client issues faster with the Take Control remote access tool that connects to devices in seconds
- Backup Administrators who need reliable, scalable backup solutions for servers, workstations, and cloud services like Microsoft 365
- MSP Business Managers looking to improve profitability through streamlined operations and access to partner growth resources
N-able works especially well for managed service providers supporting small to mid-sized businesses in healthcare, finance, legal, and professional services sectors where reliability and security are non-negotiable.
Online Reviews (Last 6 Months Summarised)
N-able's IT management platform offers mixed experiences for users. While the software provides helpful centralized device management, customers have recently expressed frustration with slower product development, persistent bugs, and unaddressed feature requests that limit its overall functionality.
Users also report significant challenges with customer service, describing support as unresponsive and unhelpful. The platform's integration capabilities with third-party tools appear limited, which can create additional workflow complications for IT professionals relying on comprehensive management solutions.
Features
- Comprehensive IT Management Platform: N-central offers a powerful remote monitoring and management solution that helps MSPs efficiently manage complex IT environments with customizable features.
- Advanced Analytics Dashboard: Leverages Microsoft Power BI to provide visual business intelligence, helping MSPs identify network trends and performance patterns quickly.
- Automated Task Management: Streamlines IT operations through automated onboarding, ticket management, and maintenance processes using intuitive drag-and-drop interfaces.
- Multi-Device Security Protection: Integrates endpoint detection and response, disk encryption, DNS filtering, and anti-malware protection across Windows, Apple, iOS, and Android platforms.
- Remote Support Tool: Take Control enables rapid device connections in under eight seconds, supporting cross-platform remote management with multi-factor security.
- Hybrid Cloud Backup Solution: N-able Backup provides secure, comprehensive data protection for servers, workstations, and Microsoft 365 with seamless file and system restoration capabilities.
- Partner Growth Resources: Offers comprehensive support through partner programs, technical bootcamps, and MarketBuilder marketing tools to help MSPs expand their business effectively.
Pricing
- Per Device Pricing offers flexible licensing with costs varying by device type and service level, allowing MSPs to scale their IT management solutions dynamically.
- Per User Pricing provides a straightforward model that enables MSPs to charge clients based on the number of users, with potential pricing ranging from $15-$185 per user monthly.
- Tiered Pricing includes multiple service levels from basic to enterprise-grade, with costs incrementing based on complexity and feature depth, supporting MSPs in customizing their service offerings.
- Team Plans potentially offer volume discounts, with estimated pricing structures like 5-10 users at a lower per-user rate, 11-50 users at a reduced rate, and 51+ users at the most economical pricing tier.
Frequently Asked Questions
N-central is designed for larger MSPs with complex environments. It offers deep customization options and can be deployed on-premise or hosted in the cloud. N-sight RMM is more streamlined and fully cloud-based, making it better for smaller MSPs who need simplicity. While both handle core monitoring and management tasks, N-central provides more advanced automation capabilities through its Automation Manager.
How good is N-able's security offering?N-able offers solid security through several integrated tools. Their Security Manager includes AV Defender for anti-malware protection with behavior analysis. They've partnered with SentinelOne for Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) capabilities. You also get DNS filtering for content control and threat protection, plus disk encryption options. For MSPs looking for comprehensive security, these tools work together well, though some users wish for tighter integration between the security components.
Can I try N-able before buying?Yes, N-able offers free trials for most of their products. You can test drive N-central, N-sight RMM, or Take Control to see if they fit your needs. The trials typically last 30 days and include access to technical support. This gives you enough time to set up some test devices and explore the main features. You'll need to fill out a form on their website to get started with your trial.
How does Take Control compare to other remote access tools?Take Control stands out for its speed, connecting to devices in under eight seconds. It works across many platforms including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. The Plus version lets you run unlimited parallel sessions, which not all competitors offer. Users like its session recording features and the ability to brand the experience for clients. Compared to tools like TeamViewer or ConnectWise Control, Take Control integrates more smoothly with other N-able products but may have fewer third-party integrations.
What kind of support does N-able offer to MSPs?N-able provides several support options for MSPs. Their technical support team is available 24/7 through phone, email, and chat. They offer "Head Nerds" who run free technical bootcamps and provide specialized expertise. Their MarketBuilder program helps MSPs with marketing automation to grow their business. They also maintain a knowledge base with how-to guides, video tutorials, and documentation. The quality of support varies according to user feedback, with some reporting excellent experiences while others note inconsistency.
