TechRadar Verdict
LogMeIn Pro bristles with plenty of business features, which includes no-nonsense file management, multi monitor support and whiteboarding too. It also comes with 24/7 support, which proves to be a real boon for businesses where lots of employees are planning on making use of its full potential.
Pros
- +
Great interface
- +
Dependable support
- +
Solid security
Cons
- -
Costly for some
- -
Little difference between packages
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In remote access solutions, LogMeIn Pro stands out with its robust features and reliable performance, catering to a wide range of users. With its secure and user-friendly interface, LogMeIn Pro provides professionals worldwide with seamless remote computer access. However, how does it perform in real-world scenarios, and is it the right choice for your needs?
LogMeIn Pro is a strong contender for those seeking business-oriented remote desktop software. It offers numerous business-focused features centered around secure desktop remote access and control. As a dedicated business solution, LogMeIn Pro surpasses many competitors, especially those that offer limited versions for home users. LogMeIn Pro provides unlimited user access, 1TB of file storage, support for multiple monitors, and top-notch security.
This blog post will explore LogMeIn Pro's advantages and disadvantages and identify the users who can most benefit from its features.
LogMeIn Pro: Plans and pricing
LogMeIn Pro offers different packages to cater to various users.
1. Individual Package: Priced at $30 per month, this package is designed for lone users and provides access to up to two computers. It includes remote access, unlimited users, remote printing, 1TB file storage, multi-monitor display features, and the new LogMeIn Antivirus option.
2. Power Users Package: Priced at $70 per month, this package is suitable for users needing access to up to five computers. It includes all the features of the Individual Package and adds three free licenses to LastPass Premium for easier password management.
3. Small Businesses Package: Priced at $129 per month, this package is best suited for larger businesses as it allows access to 10 computers and includes five free licenses to LastPass Premium.
LogMeIn Pro: Features and utilities
LogMeIn Pro is ideal for IT professionals and support teams who need robust security and comprehensive remote access features. It provides scalable solutions for companies of all sizes, allowing employees to work remotely or manage a distributed workforce.
Additionally, LogMeIn Pro offers seamless access and file transfer capabilities for graphic designers, architects, and video editors who require access to high-powered desktop applications from remote locations.
Educators and administrators can also use LogMeIn Pro to access school computers remotely, making it easier to work from anywhere or assist students and faculty with IT issues.
Users praise LogMeIn Pro for its range of features and functions, designed for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Its split display offers a straightforward preview of files and their locations, while drag-and-drop efficiency makes file and folder management more convenient than sending content via email. The program is also responsive, with an engineered setup for swift progress and a Wake On LAN feature for asleep computers.
Whiteboard Drawing and Screen Record options, along with Multi-Monitor Support, round out its arsenal of features, offering users added flexibility and productivity.
LogMeIn Pro: Setup
We explored both of the setup options within the LogMeIn Pro configuration area and either makes for a quick and easy route. You’ll need to install the LogMeIn Pro Control Panel on the machine you wish to access. The LogMeIn Client software can be installed on Mac or Windows computers, along with iOS or Android devices too. We’re talking a few minutes to get this setup completed, making LogMeIn Pro very competitive in the no-hassle stakes.
LogMeIn Pro: Interface and performance
Considering its beefy set of features and functions, LogMeIn Pro is actually really easy to use and much of this is down to its simple interface. If you're new to the software it’s useful to try out the Getting Started tab, which helps you familiarize yourself with many of the everyday tools. It’ll get you connected in no time.
Similarly handy is the way it’s possible to send an invitation to a colleague, allowing them to view or control your machine as and when it’s needed. Abuse of this feature can be easily prevented too, thanks to a secure, time-sensitive link option, which limits the period of remote access.
Client side access provides a view of all available computers and the subsequent access that is available. Another solid aspect here is the way that everything is nicely synced, including if you access via a mobile device or simply a desktop computer. LogMeIn Pro has been around long enough now that all of this is delivered painlessly and very efficiently too, again with little in the way of lag.
LogMeIn Pro: Security
Being secure in a remote desktop access environment is another big consideration when choosing the right package for your business. LogMeIn has been in existence for years, so it’s fair to say that the levels of security continue to be excellent too. Host and client communications, and everything going backwards and forwards, is protected under the umbrella of SST/TLS (OpenSSL) security, which is akin to that used in the banking world.
We’re also big fans of the LogMeIn Pro attention to detail when it comes to wider security. For example, unusual activity or failed log in attempts can be sent to you, or an IT manager as alerts. Similarly, managers can revoke user permissions when needed, either on a one-to-one basis or across an entire company user base.
LogMeIn Pro: Support
If you’re a company owner or someone in an IT department that needs to deal with staff on a daily basis then support is always a plus. In that respect, LogMeIn Pro is especially appealing as it continues to offer telephone support. It can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Better yet, it’s available in over 15 different languages, which makes LogMeIn Pro one of the best remote access options out there in that respect.
On top of that excellent support, LogMeIn Pro comes with plenty of user guides, articles on how best to milk its inner most secrets and, if all that wasn’t enough, there are community forums. Having been around for a while now, it’s safe to say that help and advice is always there if you need it.
LogMeIn Pro: Pros and cons
When analyzing LogMeIn Pro, it's important to consider its various advantages and shortcomings.
LogMeIn Pro stands out for its seamless remote access capabilities, allowing users to effortlessly reach their desktops, files, and applications from anywhere, at any time. This high level of accessibility empowers professionals to remain productive, regardless of their location.
Security is a top priority in remote access, and LogMeIn Pro excels in this area. With robust 256-bit AES encryption, multi-factor authentication, and optional IP whitelisting, users can have peace of mind knowing that their remote sessions are well-protected against unauthorized access.
The software simplifies the transfer and sharing of files between remote and local computers, promoting collaboration among team members. This feature is especially beneficial for professionals who frequently work with large files or sensitive information.
A unique aspect of LogMeIn Pro is its remote printing capability, which allows users to print documents from a remote computer to a local printer. This functionality is convenient for professionals who need to print documents for meetings, presentations, or record-keeping.
For businesses with multiple users, LogMeIn Pro offers intuitive user management features. Administrators can easily add or remove users, assign specific computers, and set permissions, allowing for efficient management of remote access privileges.
Despite its comprehensive feature set, the pricing of LogMeIn Pro may deter some individuals and small businesses. The cost is higher compared to some competitors, so potential users should carefully assess the value it brings to their specific use cases.
Although LogMeIn Pro has an intuitive interface, some users may encounter a learning curve in fully utilizing all the advanced features it offers. Businesses may need to invest time in training employees to maximize the tool's potential.
While LogMeIn Pro generally provides stable and reliable remote access, users on slower internet connections might experience performance issues, such as latency or decreased video quality during remote sessions. This is an important consideration for users with specific connectivity requirements.
LogMeIn Pro: The competition
Anyone looking for the best remote desktop access products will not be able to bypass LogMeIn Pro, but there are plenty of alternatives worth considering. That’s especially so if you’re not overly enthralled by the pricing of LogMeIn Pro’s three bundle options. A better value option may be Zoho Assist, which has an enterprise package that offers plenty of flexibility on the connectivity front, but for little in the way of outlay.
Elsewhere, Remote Desktop Manager isn't cheap, but offers up lots of more sophisticated options for IT departments that need to manage differing levels of access more precisely. Zoho Assist is also good in that respect and that even has plenty of tools for offering customer support options too. Nevertheless, if you're happy to pay for the privilege, LogMeIn Pro will more than meet the needs of many businesses.
LogMeIn Pro: Final verdict
One of the most appealing aspects of LogMeIn Pro is the excellent level of customer support. If you're an overburdened IT manager, this feature alone will probably convince you to give it a try. LogMeIn Pro also offers a great set of features and functions, making it universally appealing, especially with its strong security features that come as part of the package. However, the packages are quite pricey.
LogMeIn Pro stands out as a premium remote access tool, offering a mix of accessibility, security, and advanced features. Though its cost may be higher than some alternatives, the investment is justified for users who need a reliable, secure, and feature-rich remote access solution. By carefully considering the pros and cons, as well as their specific operational needs, potential users can make an informed decision on whether LogMeIn Pro is the best choice for their remote access needs. Whether you are an IT professional, a business owner, or a creative professional, LogMeIn Pro provides the tools and flexibility to keep you productive, no matter where you are.
What to look for in a remote desktop solution
Remote desktop solutions are indispensable tools for businesses in today's increasingly digital and flexible workplace. They allow employees to access their work environment anywhere. When evaluating remote desktop solutions for business use, several key considerations must be made to ensure that the chosen system meets your company's needs.
Security should be at the forefront of any decision-making process regarding remote desktop software. It's crucial to look for a solution that offers robust security features such as end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular security updates to safeguard sensitive company data from unauthorized access and cyber threats.
Reliability is another critical aspect. Businesses should opt for a solution that guarantees high uptime. Solutions with a proven track record of minimal downtime will ensure your team can work efficiently without interruptions. This can often be assessed through service level agreements (SLAs) and by checking the provider's history regarding reliability and system maintenance.
Ease of Use influences how quickly your team can adapt and efficiently use the remote desktop application. The software should have an intuitive interface, straightforward connectivity processes, and compatibility across multiple devices and platforms. This ensures that staff can access their work regardless of their location or the technology they have at hand.
Performance is also an essential factor, as it impacts productivity. Look for solutions that promise fast connections with low latency and high-quality graphics rendering, mainly if your team works with graphics-intensive applications.
Scalability must be considered as your business grows and evolves. An excellent remote desktop solution should easily accommodate increasing users and seamlessly integrate with your current IT infrastructure without requiring significant upgrades or overhauls.
Customer Support offered by the provider is another pivotal consideration. Access to 24/7 customer support and technical assistance can drastically reduce downtime and resolve issues promptly, minimizing the impact on your business operations.
Cost-effectiveness plays a role in the final decision. Price structures vary widely, and businesses should analyze upfront and ongoing costs concerning the features offered. It is essential to balance the functionalities you require and the price you are willing to pay without compromising on the crucial features outlined above.
In summary, when looking for a remote desktop solution for your business, prioritize security, reliability, usability, performance, scalability, customer support, and cost-effectiveness. By carefully evaluating these aspects, businesses can select a solution that enhances productivity and aligns with operational requirements and strategic goals.
Rob Clymo has been a tech journalist for more years than he can actually remember, having started out in the wacky world of print magazines before discovering the power of the internet. Since he's been all-digital he has run the Innovation channel during a few years at Microsoft as well as turning out regular news, reviews, features and other content for the likes of TechRadar, TechRadar Pro, Tom's Guide, Fit&Well, Gizmodo, Shortlist, Automotive Interiors World, Automotive Testing Technology International, Future of Transportation and Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology International. In the rare moments he's not working he's usually out and about on one of numerous e-bikes in his collection.