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Ranking · Patch Management & Software Update Tools

Best Patch Management & Software Update Tools for Contractors

8 products scored on six criteria. Avast Business leads at 8.9 and the field is tight, with 0.2 points between first and last, so read the catches before you pick. Every product opens to the evidence behind its number.

8 products scored6 criteria87 sources citedUpdated Aug 4, 2026
Jump to the ranking How the scores work
1 Avast Businessavast.com

Avast patches hundreds of apps, but skips macOS

Read the reviewVisit ↗
2 NinjaOneninjaone.com

NinjaOne patches without a VPN, macOS updates lag

Read the reviewVisit ↗
3 PDQpdq.com

PDQ Connect publishes pricing from $12 per device yearly

Read the reviewVisit ↗
8Products
8.7 to 8.9Score spread
1Free plan or tier
01

The ranking

Order follows the score. Six little boxes show each product's criterion scores: green or red is above or below the category average, grey means too few products share that criterion to compare. The full review sits right under each one.

Nothing matches that filter here. Tap All to see every product.

1

Avast Business

avast.com · Avast Business Patch Management · scored Apr 2026

Avast patches hundreds of apps, but skips macOS

Best forSMBs already using Avast Business for endpoint security

From $16 per year Windows onlymaster agent24/7 scanning
Top score
Visit Avast Business ↗ See the evidence

Cloud patch management for Windows and third-party apps, distributed through a local master agent.

Standout factAvast Business Patch Management is officially available for Windows only.avast.com
Biggest catchAvast suffered an internal network hack in September 2023 that led to password theft.airdroid.com
$16.42/device/yrStarting priceenterprisenetworkingplanet.com
Every 24 hoursScan frequencyavast.com

Runs on

🌐Web
iOS
🤖Android
💻Windows
💻Mac
⚙API

Source: avast.com

Starting price

$16.42/yrPer device per year, standalone pricing

Upside

  • Automated scans every 24 hours
  • Hundreds of third-party apps covered
  • Master agent cuts network load

Catch

  • Windows only, no macOS support
  • Avast had a 2023 password breach
  • No live install progress prompts
Pick it ifSMBs already using Avast Business for endpoint security
Skip it ifOrganizations needing patch management for macOS devices
PricingFrom about $16.42 per device per year

Editor's takeAvast Business Patch Management scans for missing patches every 24 hours via a local master agent. It covers hundreds of third-party apps like Chrome, Java and Adobe alongside Windows itself. Avast disclosed an internal network breach in September 2023 that led to password theft.

Does Avast Business Patch Management work on Mac?

No. The product is officially available for Windows only, and customers who run Mac devices have reported this as a frustrating limitation.

How much does Avast Business Patch Management cost?

Standalone pricing starts around $16.42 per device per year, or about $15.49 per user monthly, according to third-party pricing guides.

The evidence: 6 criteria, 2 penalties (−0.15 points)
8.9
Product Capability & DepthLooked for: Comprehensive patching for operating systems and third-party applications with automated deployment scheduling.Automates patching for Windows and hundreds of third-party apps with flexible scheduling and master agent distribution, though it is limited to Windows OS.avast.comavast.com
9.4
Market Credibility & Trust SignalsLooked for: A proven track record of security, reliability, and positive industry recognition for the vendor.Backed by a major cybersecurity brand that blocks billions of attacks monthly, but credibility is hampered by documented corporate network breaches.prnewswire.comairdroid.com
9.2
Usability & Customer ExperienceLooked for: Intuitive management consoles and centralized dashboards that simplify IT administration.Offers a centralized cloud-based dashboard with easy scheduling, though some users note a lack of live progress indicators during deployments.9367735.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.netcapterra.com
9.3
Value, Pricing & TransparencyLooked for: Clear, competitive pricing structures aligned with the features provided for small to mid-sized businesses.Transparent per-device or per-user pricing models available as standalone add-ons or bundled with Ultimate Business Security.enterprisenetworkingplanet.comgtcybersecurity.co.uk
8.8
Security Automation & Policy EnforcementLooked for: Robust tools to automatically discover missing patches, enforce compliance, and reduce manual IT labor.Delivers continuous automated scanning every 24 hours, effortless rollback capabilities, and strict compliance reporting.avast.comenterprisenetworkingplanet.com
8.6
Platform Support & CompatibilityLooked for: Broad support for major operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints.Exceptionally strong for Windows and Windows Server environments, but officially lacks native support for macOS.avast.comcapterra.com

Score adjustments−0.15 points in total

−0.08Avast has a history of severe internal network breaches, including a compromised VPN profile leading to password theft, which damages enterprise trust.airdroid.com · severity 75/100
−0.07The product natively supports only Windows endpoints, completely excluding macOS devices which is a significant drawback for modern IT environments.avast.com · severity 65/100
Visit Avast Business ↗ Back to the top of the ranking
2

NinjaOne

ninjaone.com · NinjaOne Patch Management · scored Dec 2025

NinjaOne patches without a VPN, macOS updates lag

Best forMSPs and mid-sized IT teams needing unified, VPN-free patch management.

Quote only FedRAMP ModerateISO 27001SOC 2
Visit NinjaOne ↗ See the evidence

FedRAMP-authorized patch management automating updates across Windows, macOS, and Linux without a VPN.

Standout factNinjaOne patches over 135 third-party applications across Windows, macOS, and Linux without a VPN.ninjaone.com
Biggest catchUsers report macOS patching reliability issues, including update loops and failed installs.reddit.com
135+Third-party apps patchedninjaone.com
98%Support satisfactionninjaone.com
$1.50-$4.00/endpoint/moEstimated price rangetekpon.com

Standout number

135+third-party apps patched

Source: ninjaone.com

Compliance

✓ FedRAMP Moderate✓ ISO 27001✓ SOC 2? HIPAA

Source: trustpage.ninjaone.com

Upside

  • FedRAMP Moderate authorized security
  • No VPN required for remote patching
  • Patches 135+ third-party applications

Catch

  • macOS patching reliability issues
  • No public pricing list
  • Reporting can show false positives
Pick it ifMSPs and mid-sized IT teams needing unified, VPN-free patch management.
Skip it ifTeams wanting fully transparent, public pricing without a sales call.
PricingEstimated $1.50-$4.00 per endpoint/month, quote required.

Editor's takeNinjaOne patches Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints from anywhere, without requiring a VPN, covering more than 135 third-party applications. It holds FedRAMP Moderate authorization, ISO 27001 certification, and reports 98% support satisfaction. Users report macOS patching reliability issues, including update loops, and pricing is not publicly listed.

How much does NinjaOne Patch Management cost?

Pricing is not publicly listed. Third-party estimates put costs between $1.50 and $4.00 per endpoint per month, depending on volume.

Is NinjaOne reliable for macOS patching?

Not always. Users report reliability issues, including update loops and occasional failures to install macOS patches correctly.

The evidence: 6 criteria, 3 penalties (−0.20 points)
8.8
Product Capability & DepthLooked for: We evaluate the breadth of operating system support, third-party application coverage, and the reliability of update delivery mechanisms.NinjaOne provides automated patching for Windows, macOS, and Linux, covering over 135 third-party applications without requiring VPNs or domain joining.ninjaone.comninjaone.comninjaone.com
9.5
Market Credibility & Trust SignalsLooked for: We assess industry certifications, security authorizations, and the size of the active customer base to determine market trust.NinjaOne holds FedRAMP Moderate Authorization, ISO 27001 certification, and SOC 2 compliance, serving over 20,000 customers globally.ninjaone.comtrustpage.ninjaone.com
9.2
Usability & Customer ExperienceLooked for: We look for ease of deployment, interface intuitiveness, and the quality of technical support resources.The platform is consistently praised for its 'single pane of glass' interface and rapid onboarding, with support satisfaction ratings averaging 98%.ninjaone.comninjaone.complatform.softwareone.com
8.4
Value, Pricing & TransparencyLooked for: We analyze pricing models, estimated costs per unit, and the accessibility of pricing information.Pricing is per-device, estimated between $1.50 and $4.00 per endpoint depending on volume, but specific costs are not publicly listed.ninjaone.comtekpon.comninjaone.com
8.9
Automation & Remediation CapabilitiesLooked for: We evaluate the ability to automate complex patching workflows, scripting support, and auto-remediation of failed updates.Offers robust policy-based automation, custom scripting (PowerShell/Bash), and automatic reboot management, though some complex failures require manual intervention.ninjaone.comninjaone.comhomotechsual.dev
9.4
Security, Compliance & Data ProtectionLooked for: We examine security features like MFA, role-based access, and compliance with government standards tailored to patch management.Security is a core strength with FedRAMP Moderate status, enforced MFA, and granular role-based access control (RBAC) for technicians.ninjaone.comtrustpage.ninjaone.com

Score adjustments−0.20 points in total

−0.09Users consistently report reliability issues with macOS patching, including update loops and failures to install.reddit.com · severity 65/100
−0.08Some administrators report discrepancies where the dashboard shows devices as fully patched despite missing updates.reddit.com · severity 60/100
−0.03Pricing is not publicly transparent and requires engagement with sales for a quote.techradar.com · severity 40/100
Visit NinjaOne ↗ Back to the top of the ranking
3

PDQ

pdq.com · PDQ Patch Management · scored Dec 2025

PDQ Connect publishes pricing from $12 per device yearly

Best forSysadmins managing local or remote Windows environments who want speed.

From $12 per device/year free trialtransparent pricingno Linux support
Visit PDQ ↗ See the evidence

Cloud-native patch management with 200+ pre-built packages for Windows and macOS.

Standout factPDQ Connect includes more than 200 pre-built third-party application packages.pdq.com
Biggest catchPDQ Connect and Deploy do not support Linux operating systems at all.assets.ctfassets.net
$12/device/yrBasic tier pricepdq.com
$28/device/yrPremium tier pricepdq.com
200+Pre-built packagespdq.com

Plans

Most chosenBasic$12/device/yr
Plus$18/device/yr
Premium$28/device/yr

Source: pdq.com

Runs on

🌐Web
iOS
🤖Android
💻Windows
💻Mac
⚙API

Source: assets.ctfassets.net

Upside

  • 200+ pre-built app packages
  • Fully transparent pricing tiers
  • Built-in vulnerability scanning

Catch

  • No Linux support
  • Remote desktop features are basic
  • Connect lacks parity with Deploy
Pick it ifSysadmins managing local or remote Windows environments who want speed.
Skip it ifOrganizations needing robust native macOS or Linux support.
PricingFrom $12/device/year Basic, up to $28 Premium

Editor's takePDQ Connect keeps more than 200 third-party application packages pre-tested and ready to deploy. Pricing stays fully public too, running from $12 to $28 per device yearly. The gap is operating system coverage though, since PDQ Connect and Deploy support only Windows and macOS, not Linux.

How much does PDQ Connect cost?

Pricing is public: Basic starts at $12 per device per year, Plus is $18, and Premium is $28, all listed on PDQ's pricing page.

Does PDQ support Linux devices?

No. PDQ Connect and PDQ Deploy support Windows and macOS only, with no Linux support.

The evidence: 6 criteria, 3 penalties (−0.18 points)
8.8
Product Capability & DepthLooked for: We evaluate the breadth of patch automation, OS support, and third-party application coverage specific to SaaS patch management.PDQ Connect provides agent-based patch management for Windows and macOS with a library of over 200 pre-built third-party packages, plus vulnerability scanning and remediation capabilities.pdq.compdq.compdq.com
9.3
Market Credibility & Trust SignalsLooked for: We assess user sentiment, industry reputation, and longevity in the systems administration market.PDQ holds a strong reputation among sysadmins for reliability and ease of use, with high ratings across review platforms and a loyal community following.g2.comg2.com
9.1
Usability & Customer ExperienceLooked for: We examine the ease of setup, interface intuitiveness, and quality of support resources for IT professionals.Users consistently praise the interface for being intuitive and 'distraction-free', with a rapid setup process that does not require complex infrastructure.g2.comwebcatalog.io
9.4
Value, Pricing & TransparencyLooked for: We evaluate pricing transparency, model flexibility, and value for money relative to features.PDQ offers exceptional transparency with publicly listed pricing tiers for Connect ($12-$28/device) and Deploy ($1,650/admin), including a fully functional free trial.pdq.compdq.compdq.com
9.2
Support, Training & Onboarding ResourcesLooked for: We look for the quality of documentation, community engagement, and training materials.PDQ provides an extensive knowledge base, a highly active YouTube channel ('PDQ Live'), and a vibrant community on Reddit and Discord.youtube.comreddit.com
8.8
Security, Compliance & Data ProtectionLooked for: We assess vulnerability management features, access controls, and security protocols.PDQ Connect Premium includes built-in vulnerability scanning and prioritization, along with RBAC and SSO, though some advanced compliance reporting is less granular than enterprise RMMs.pdq.compdq.compdq.com

Score adjustments−0.18 points in total

−0.07PDQ Connect and Deploy strictly support Windows and macOS, with no support for Linux operating systems.assets.ctfassets.net · severity 50/100
−0.06PDQ Connect lacks full feature parity with the on-prem PDQ Deploy, missing features like interactive deployments and some custom tools.reddit.com · severity 45/100
−0.05The Remote Desktop feature in Connect is considered basic by some users, lacking advanced capabilities found in dedicated remote support tools.reddit.com · severity 40/100
Visit PDQ ↗ Back to the top of the ranking
4

Tenable

tenable.com · Tenable Patch Management · scored Dec 2025

Tenable Patch Management skips macOS OS patching entirely

Best forEnterprise security teams already using Tenable Vulnerability Management or Security Center

Quote only SOC 2enterpriseadd-on
Visit Tenable ↗ See the evidence

An add-on patch management tool that pairs Tenable's vulnerability data with automated remediation.

Standout factTenable Patch Management is not sold standalone; it requires an active Vulnerability Management, Security Center, or Tenable One subscription.docs.tenable.com
Biggest catchIt does not support macOS operating system patching, only third-party application patching on Mac.docs.tenable.com
9.3/10Product depth scoretenable.com
Add-on onlyDeployment modeldocs.tenable.com

Before you buy

  • Already using Tenable Vulnerability Management
  • Need macOS operating system patching
  • Want peer-to-peer patch distribution

In their words

“Tenable Patch Management requires Tenable Vulnerability Management, Tenable Security Center, or Tenable One and is not available as a standalone product.”

docs.tenable.com

Upside

  • Closes loop between VPR data and patching
  • Peer-to-peer distribution, no new infrastructure
  • Admins can pause, cancel or roll back patches

Catch

  • No macOS operating system patching
  • Requires an existing Tenable subscription
  • Pricing not public, sold as add-on
Pick it ifEnterprise security teams already using Tenable Vulnerability Management or Security Center
Skip it ifSmall businesses without an existing Tenable subscription
PricingAdd-on only; licensed by asset under an annual subscription

Editor's takeTenable Patch Management links directly to the company's Vulnerability Priority Rating, so remediation follows the same risk data used for detection instead of a separate patching tool. Peer-to-peer distribution lets it scale from a single server without extra infrastructure. It only sells as an add-on to Tenable Vulnerability Management, Security Center, or Tenable One, and macOS support is limited to third-party apps, not the operating system itself.

Can Tenable Patch Management be purchased on its own?

No. It requires an active subscription to Tenable Vulnerability Management, Tenable Security Center, or Tenable One, and is not sold as a standalone product, per Tenable's documentation.

Does Tenable Patch Management support Mac computers?

Partially. It patches third-party applications on macOS but does not support operating system-level patching for Mac devices, according to Tenable's user guide.

The evidence: 6 criteria, 2 penalties (−0.11 points)
9.3
Product Capability & Depthtenable.comtenable.com
8.9
Market Credibility & Trust Signals
8.9
Usability & Customer ExperienceLooked for: We examine the ease of workflow configuration, dashboard clarity, and the level of control provided to administrators.The platform emphasizes granular control for security teams, offering features like pause, rollback, and version management within a unified console.tenable.comhelpnetsecurity.comcontent.shi.com
8.5
Value, Pricing & TransparencyLooked for: We analyze the pricing model, licensing flexibility, and whether the solution requires additional purchases.Pricing is asset-based and requires an existing Tenable vulnerability management subscription, making it a premium add-on rather than a budget standalone tool.tenable.comdocs.tenable.comtenable.com
9.0
Scalability & PerformanceLooked for: We look for seamless data flow between vulnerability detection and patch remediation systems.The product natively integrates with Tenable's ecosystem, closing the loop between the VPR (Vulnerability Priority Rating) and the actual patch deployment.batecme.comadaptiva.comadaptiva.com
9.1
Security, Compliance & Data Protection

Score adjustments−0.11 points in total

−0.08The solution does not support operating system patching for macOS devices; it only supports third-party application patching for the Mac platform.docs.tenable.com · severity 60/100
−0.03This product cannot be purchased as a standalone solution; it requires an active subscription to a base Tenable product like Vulnerability Management or Security Center.docs.tenable.com · severity 45/100
Visit Tenable ↗ Back to the top of the ranking
5

Qualys

qualys.com · Qualys Patch Management · scored Dec 2025

FedRAMP High rated, but reporting looks dated

Best forOrganizations using Qualys VMDR for enterprise risk management.

Quote only FedRAMP Highpatch managementServiceNow integration
−0.1 vs #1
Visit Qualys ↗ See the evidence

Cloud patch management with automated deployment, FedRAMP High authorization, and ServiceNow integration.

Standout factQualys achieved FedRAMP High authorization for its government platform.blog.qualys.com
Biggest catchSupport response for critical issues can reportedly take weeks.gartner.com
9.8/10Security scoreblog.qualys.com
$30/asset/yearEstimated pricecycognito.com

Compliance

✓ FedRAMP High✓ NIST 800-53? SOC 2

Source: blog.qualys.com

In their words

“Reporting burden: reports are not intuitive and require manual formatting. Preparing a report for a customer can take hours. The reports are very Windows 2000 style.”

gartner.com

Upside

  • FedRAMP High authorized security
  • Automated zero-touch patch deployment
  • Native ServiceNow integration

Catch

  • Reporting interface called dated
  • Support response can take weeks
  • No native driver or firmware updates
Pick it ifOrganizations using Qualys VMDR for enterprise risk management.
Skip it ifSmall businesses needing a simple, standalone patch tool.
PricingCustom pricing, older estimates suggest around $30/asset/year.

Editor's takeQualys holds FedRAMP High authorization, the strictest federal cloud security tier, unmatched by most rivals in this batch. Its ServiceNow integration auto-creates change tickets and patch jobs. Reviewers on Gartner still describe the reporting interface as dated and support as slow for critical issues.

Is Qualys FedRAMP authorized?

Yes. Its Government Platform achieved FedRAMP High Authorization, aligning with NIST 800-53 High Impact controls for the most sensitive environments.

How much does Qualys Patch Management cost?

Pricing is custom and not public. Older third-party estimates suggest around $30 per asset per year.

The evidence: 6 criteria, 3 penalties (−0.20 points)
9.3
Product Capability & Depth
9.0
Market Credibility & Trust Signalssecuritymagazine.com
8.4
Usability & Customer ExperienceLooked for: We examine user feedback regarding the interface, ease of deployment, and quality of technical support.While the single-agent architecture simplifies deployment, users report the reporting interface is dated and support response times can be slow for critical issues.gartner.comgartner.com
8.0
Value, Pricing & TransparencyLooked for: We look for publicly available pricing, clear licensing models, and competitive value for the features offered.Pricing is not publicly listed and is generally considered premium, with estimates around $30/asset/year, which some users find expensive compared to competitors.cycognito.compeerspot.com
9.8
Security, Compliance & Data ProtectionLooked for: We evaluate the product's adherence to rigorous security standards, compliance frameworks, and data protection protocols.The product meets the highest federal security standards with FedRAMP High authorization, validating it against 400+ NIST controls.blog.qualys.comblog.qualys.com
9.0
Integrations & Ecosystem StrengthLooked for: We look for deep integrations with ITSM tools, vulnerability scanners, and third-party patch catalogs.Qualys features a closed-loop integration with ServiceNow for automated ticketing and leverages an Ivanti partnership to expand its patch catalog.real-sec.comivanti.com

Score adjustments−0.20 points in total

−0.08The product lacks built-in capabilities for driver and firmware updates, requiring administrators to use separate tools for these tasks.peerspot.com · severity 60/100
−0.07The system does not support mandatory sequential reboots between multiple patches within a single job, which can be a limitation for complex patch dependencies.docs.qualys.com · severity 50/100
−0.05Users have described the reporting interface as dated ('Windows 2000 style') and non-intuitive, often requiring manual work to format reports for customers.gartner.com · severity 45/100
Visit Qualys ↗ Back to the top of the ranking
6

Scalefusion

scalefusion.com · Scalefusion Windows Patch Management · scored Dec 2025

Scalefusion answers live chat support in under 4 minutes

Best forOrganizations managing mixed OS mobile and desktop devices

From $2 per device/mo SOC 2 Type 2fast supportno native VPN
−0.1 vs #1
Visit Scalefusion ↗ See the evidence

Automated Windows and third-party patch management bundled into a unified endpoint management console.

Standout factServes over 10,000 customers worldwide, live chat response averages under 4 minutesscalefusion.com
Biggest catchThere's no built-in native VPN service, requiring manual configuration of third-party providers.g2.com
10,000+Customers worldwidescalefusion.com
<4 minLive chat response timescalefusion.com

Starting price

$4/device/moEnterprise plan includes patch mgmt; $2 add-on otherwise

In their words

“First response time <4min For live chat.”

scalefusion.com

Upside

  • Automated third-party app patching
  • Sub-4-minute support response
  • SOC 2 Type 2 & ISO 27001

Catch

  • Initial setup can be complex
  • Basic reporting analytics
  • No built-in native VPN
Pick it ifOrganizations managing mixed OS mobile and desktop devices
Skip it ifIT teams looking strictly for a standalone patch tool
PricingFrom $2/device/mo (Starter); patching included at $4/mo (Enterprise)

Editor's takeScalefusion automates patching for Windows OS alongside third-party apps like Adobe and Chrome, a combination that often needs separate tools elsewhere. Support stands out with a documented live chat response time under 4 minutes, backing a customer base of 10,000-plus. The gaps are a reportedly complex initial setup and reporting analytics users call basic compared to other MDM solutions.

Is patch management included in Scalefusion's pricing?

It's included in the Enterprise plan at $4 per device per month. On lower tiers, it's available as a $2-per-device-per-month add-on.

How fast is Scalefusion's customer support?

The vendor reports a first response time under 4 minutes for live chat, according to its own support page.

The evidence: 6 criteria, 3 penalties (−0.17 points)
8.7
Product Capability & DepthLooked for: We evaluate the breadth of patching automation, support for third-party applications, and granularity of control over update schedules.Scalefusion provides automated patching for Windows OS and third-party apps (e.g., Adobe, Chrome), with features for scanning, syncing, and scheduling updates.scalefusion.comscalefusion.comhelp.scalefusion.com
9.2
Market Credibility & Trust SignalsLooked for: We assess industry certifications, customer base size, and public user sentiment to gauge reliability.Scalefusion holds major security certifications like ISO 27001 and SOC 2 Type 2 and serves over 10,000 customers globally with high user ratings.scalefusion.comscalefusion.com
8.9
Usability & Customer ExperienceLooked for: We examine the ease of setup, interface intuitiveness, and quality of customer support interactions.Users consistently praise the responsive support team and elegant UI, though some note the initial setup can be complex for beginners.scalefusion.comg2.com
9.0
Value, Pricing & TransparencyLooked for: We analyze pricing structures, hidden costs, and the inclusion of premium features in standard plans.Pricing is transparently listed, with patch management included in the Enterprise plan ($4/mo) or as a $2 add-on for lower tiers.scalefusion.comsaasworthy.comscalefusion.com
8.8
Support, Training & Onboarding ResourcesLooked for: We check for the availability of educational resources, documentation, and training programs.Scalefusion offers a dedicated 'Academy' with certification courses and extensive help documentation to aid user onboarding.scalefusion.comlearningscalefusion.comhelp.scalefusion.com
9.1
Security, Compliance & Data ProtectionLooked for: We evaluate security features specific to endpoint protection, such as encryption management and compliance adherence.The platform supports BitLocker encryption, remote wipe, and is HIPAA/GDPR ready, ensuring high standards of data protection.scalefusion.comhelp.scalefusion.comscalefusion.com

Score adjustments−0.17 points in total

−0.05Users report that the initial setup process can be complex and challenging for those without prior experience.g2.com · severity 50/100
−0.06Reporting and analytics capabilities are described by some users as basic compared to other MDM solutions.youtube.com · severity 45/100
−0.06Users find the lack of built-in VPN support frustrating, requiring manual configuration of third-party VPN providers.g2.com · severity 45/100
Visit Scalefusion ↗ Back to the top of the ranking
7

GoTo Resolve

logmein.com · LogMeIn Resolve Patch Management · scored Dec 2025

GoTo Resolve hit 10,000 accounts in 4 months.

Best forSMB IT teams needing combined remote support and patching, free for 5 devices.

Free tier From $57 per month free planSOC 2HIPAA
−0.2 vs #1
Visit GoTo Resolve ↗ See the evidence

Unified patch management and remote support suite with a true Zero Trust security architecture.

Standout factReached over 10,000 registered accounts within 4 months of its GoTo Resolve launch.cloudcommunications.com
Biggest catchCannot perform major macOS OS upgrades, and lacks patch support for Windows ARM devices.miradore.com
10,000+Accounts within 4 monthscloudcommunications.com
5Free tier device limitspendflo.com
$57/moEndpoint management starting pricesaasworthy.com

Standout number

10,000+registered accounts within 4 months of launch

Source: cloudcommunications.com

Before you rely on GoTo Resolve

  • Need major macOS version upgrades
  • Run Windows on ARM devices
  • Fine with 5 free devices to start

Upside

  • True Zero Trust security architecture
  • Free tier for up to 5 devices
  • Unified RMM and remote support

Catch

  • No major macOS upgrade support
  • No Windows ARM patching
  • Occasional connection latency
Pick it ifSMB IT teams needing combined remote support and patching, free for 5 devices.
Skip it ifEnterprises needing granular patch approval flows or advanced vulnerability scanning.
PricingFree for up to 5 devices; paid from ~$57/mo

Editor's takeGoTo Resolve, formerly LogMeIn Resolve, builds Zero Trust into its remote access architecture, requiring agents to sign sensitive actions with a unique key even the vendor can't bypass. That security depth pairs with a genuinely free tier for up to 5 devices, rare in patch management. The gaps are specific: it can't push major macOS version upgrades, only minor patches, and Windows ARM devices aren't supported at all.

Is GoTo Resolve free?

Yes, a free tier covers remote access and management for up to 5 devices. Paid endpoint management plans start around $57 a month.

Can GoTo Resolve upgrade macOS to a new major version?

No. Its patch library only covers minor macOS updates within a version, such as security patches, not major upgrades like moving from macOS 13 to 14.

The evidence: 6 criteria, 3 penalties (−0.18 points)
8.7
Product Capability & DepthLooked for: We evaluate the breadth of patching automation, OS compatibility, and third-party application support.The platform supports Windows and macOS patching, utilizing Windows Package Manager (winget) for third-party apps and Ivanti SDK for broader vendor support. It offers automated scheduling, batch deployment, and policy-based updates (e.g., critical or security-only). However, it cannot perform major macOS OS upgrades (only minor updates) and lacks support for Windows ARM devices.logmein.comsupport.logmein.commiradore.com
9.2
Market Credibility & Trust SignalsLooked for: We assess the vendor's industry standing, security certifications, and adoption rates.Rebranded from LogMeIn to GoTo, the product leverages a long-standing reputation in remote access. It holds SOC 2 Type II, SOC 3, and C5 certifications. The platform quickly amassed over 10,000 registered accounts shortly after its relaunch, indicating strong market adoption.goto.comgoto.comcloudcommunications.com
8.8
Usability & Customer ExperienceLooked for: We analyze user feedback regarding interface design, ease of setup, and connection stability.Users consistently praise the "single pane of glass" interface and ease of deployment, noting it requires minimal training. However, some customers report technical friction, including connection latency, dropped sessions, or difficulties with the client on older machines.logmein.comsoftwarefinder.com
9.0
Value, Pricing & TransparencyLooked for: We examine pricing structures, free tier availability, and overall cost-to-value ratio.The product offers a robust free tier for up to 5 devices, which is rare in this category. Paid plans are competitively priced (starting around $57-$70/month for management features), and the pricing model is transparently advertised on their site.logmein.comspendflo.comsaasworthy.com
8.6
Integrations & Ecosystem StrengthLooked for: We look for native integrations with major ITSM, ticketing, and communication platforms.The platform integrates natively with major tools like Microsoft Teams (for ticketing and support), ServiceNow, and Zendesk. These integrations allow for seamless ticket-to-session workflows, though the ecosystem is focused primarily on major players rather than niche MSP tools.logmein.comlogmein.comsupport.logmein.com
9.4
Security, Compliance & Data ProtectionLooked for: We evaluate specific security architectures, encryption standards, and compliance enablers.GoTo Resolve distinguishes itself with a strict Zero Trust architecture where agents use a unique signature key for sensitive tasks. It supports HIPAA compliance and uses AES-256 encryption, ensuring that even the vendor cannot access sensitive customer tasks without verification.logmein.comlogmein.comsupport.logmein.com

Score adjustments−0.18 points in total

−0.06Users have reported connection instability, including latency and dropped sessions, which can disrupt remote support workflows.softwarefinder.com · severity 60/100
−0.07The patch management tool supports minor macOS updates but cannot perform major operating system upgrades (e.g., moving from macOS 13 to 14).miradore.com · severity 50/100
−0.05Patch management features are not supported on devices running Windows on ARM architecture.support.logmein.com · severity 40/100
Visit GoTo Resolve ↗ Back to the top of the ranking
8

SolarWinds Patch Manager

solarwinds.com · scored Dec 2025

SolarWinds Patch Manager extends WSUS, renewals jumped 200-300%

Best forLarge enterprises heavily reliant on Microsoft WSUS or SCCM

From $1,690 per year ISO 27001free trialWindows-only
−0.2 vs #1
Visit SolarWinds Patch Manager ↗ See the evidence

Patching tool that extends Microsoft WSUS and SCCM to cover third-party apps like Adobe and Java.

Standout factSolarWinds Patch Manager eliminates the need for SCUP by extending SCCM directlysolarwinds.com
Biggest catchCustomers report renewal price increases of 200-300% in the 2024-2025 period.netdata.cloud
$1,690/yrStarting pricesolarwinds.com
200-300%Reported renewal increasenetdata.cloud

What changed

200-300%reported renewal price increase, 2024-2025

Source: netdata.cloud

Starting price

$1,690/yrstarting price, 30-day free trial

Upside

  • Extends Microsoft WSUS and SCCM
  • Pre-tested third-party patch packages
  • Wake-on-LAN for offline machines

Catch

  • Renewal prices jumped 200-300%
  • Requires existing WSUS/SCCM
  • Limited Linux/Mac support
Pick it ifLarge enterprises heavily reliant on Microsoft WSUS or SCCM
Skip it ifNetworks predominantly running macOS or Linux
PricingFrom $1,690/yr, 30-day free trial

Editor's takePatch Manager turns a basic WSUS or SCCM deployment into a full patching engine for third-party apps like Adobe, Chrome, and Java, without requiring a separate agent rollout. Wake-on-LAN support lets it patch offline machines on a schedule, useful for distributed fleets. Recent private equity-driven renewal price hikes of 200 to 300 percent are a real budgeting risk worth confirming before signing a multi-year deal.

Does SolarWinds Patch Manager work without WSUS?

No. It requires an existing Microsoft WSUS or SCCM deployment to function; it is not a standalone patching solution.

Are there reports of price increases?

Yes. Customers report renewal price increases of 200 to 300 percent during the 2024-2025 period following a private equity acquisition.

The evidence: 6 criteria, 3 penalties (−0.22 points)
8.8
Product Capability & DepthLooked for: We evaluate the software's ability to automate patching across diverse operating systems and third-party applications beyond basic native tools.SolarWinds Patch Manager extends Microsoft WSUS and SCCM to patch third-party apps (Adobe, Java, Chrome) and manages custom packages, though it relies heavily on Windows infrastructure.solarwinds.comsolarwinds.comapplytosupply.digitalmarketplace.service.gov.uk
9.1
Market Credibility & Trust SignalsLooked for: We assess the vendor's industry standing, security certifications, and adoption by regulated sectors like government or finance.SolarWinds is a major established vendor (NYSE: SWI) with significant public sector adoption, evidenced by its presence on government frameworks like G-Cloud.applytosupply.digitalmarketplace.service.gov.ukapplytosupply.digitalmarketplace.service.gov.uk
8.6
Usability & Customer ExperienceLooked for: We look for intuitive interfaces, ease of setup, and quality of support resources for administrators managing complex environments.The product offers a unified web console within the Orion Platform, but user reviews cite complexity in setup and daily use compared to cloud-native alternatives.solarwinds.comsaasadviser.cosolarwinds.com
8.3
Value, Pricing & TransparencyLooked for: We analyze pricing models, transparency of costs, and the balance of features provided relative to the financial investment.Pricing is node-based with both subscription and perpetual options, but recent reports indicate significant renewal price increases and a lack of a free tier.solarwinds.comapplytosupply.digitalmarketplace.service.gov.uknetdata.cloud
9.3
Integrations & Ecosystem StrengthLooked for: We evaluate how well the product integrates with existing IT infrastructure, particularly Microsoft endpoint management systems.The product excels at integrating with and extending Microsoft's native tools (WSUS/SCCM), making it a powerful add-on for Windows-centric infrastructure.solarwinds.comsolarwinds.comesecurityplanet.com
9.0
Security, Compliance & Data ProtectionLooked for: We examine features that ensure systems meet regulatory standards, such as compliance reporting and vulnerability remediation.Strong focus on compliance with out-of-the-box reports for auditors and features like PackageBoot to ensure complex security patches deploy correctly.solarwinds.comsolarwinds.comcdw.com

Score adjustments−0.22 points in total

−0.10Limited support for non-Windows operating systems; documentation states WSUS cannot patch Linux environments and the product does not support installation on Linux servers.solarwindscore.my.site.com · severity 75/100
−0.08The product is heavily dependent on Microsoft WSUS or SCCM and is not a standalone patching solution; it requires these underlying technologies to function.reddit.com · severity 60/100
−0.04Significant renewal price increases (200-300%) reported by customers in the 2024-2025 period following private equity acquisition.netdata.cloud · severity 55/100
Visit SolarWinds Patch Manager ↗ Back to the top of the ranking
02

Side by side

10 features across 8 products. Green is yes, red is no, grey is not published.

FeatureAvast BusinessNinjaOnePDQTenableQualysScalefusionGoTo ResolveSolarWinds Patch Manager
Has Mobile App ✗ Web-only ✗ ✗ Web-only ✓ ✓ ✗
Has Free Plan ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✓ ✗
Has Free Trial ✓ ✓ ✓ Contact for trial ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Integrates With Zapier ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗
Has Public API ✗ ✓ Enterprise API only ✓ ✓ ✓ Enterprise API only ✗
Live Chat Support Email/Ticket only ✓ Email/Ticket only Email/Ticket only ✓ ✓ ✓ Email/Ticket only
SOC 2 or ISO Certified — ✓ — ✓ Both ✓ — ✓
Popular Integrations Microsoft Azure, AWS, Google Cloud ConnectWise, Autotask, Microsoft Intune Active Directory, Spiceworks, SCCM Splunk, ServiceNow, AWS ServiceNow, Splunk, AWS Microsoft Intune, VMware, Google Workspace Microsoft Intune, Azure AD, AWS Microsoft WSUS, SCCM, VMware
Supports SSO ✗ ✓ Enterprise plans only ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✗
Starting Price $16 per year Contact for pricing $12 per device/year Contact for pricing Contact for pricing $2 per device/mo $57 per month $1,690 per year
03

How we chose

Four fixed criteria for every product, plus two chosen for Patch Management & Software Update Tools for Contractors, weighted and reduced by documented penalties.

Full methodology
Criteria set for this categoryProduct Capability & Depth, Market Credibility & Trust Signals, Usability & Customer Experience, Value, Pricing & Transparency, Security, Compliance & Data Protection, Integrations & Ecosystem Strength
Evidence, then a scoreDocumentation, pricing pages, security pages and third-party reviews. Each criterion records what was found and links its sources.
Penalties, then a rankDocumented problems pull the score down with their evidence attached. Rank follows the score. Sponsored rows, where present, are labelled.
iVendors cannot buy a position. Every score rests on published evidence, documented problems pull it down, and a 9.1 here is not a 9.1 in another category.
Albert Richer
Albert RicherFounder · Memphis, TN

Sets the criteria and reviews the evidence before a ranking publishes. Email him if something here looks wrong.

04

Questions people ask

Does Avast Business Patch Management work on Mac?

No. The product is officially available for Windows only, and customers who run Mac devices have reported this as a frustrating limitation.

How much does Avast Business Patch Management cost?

Standalone pricing starts around $16.42 per device per year, or about $15.49 per user monthly, according to third-party pricing guides.

How much does NinjaOne Patch Management cost?

Pricing is not publicly listed. Third-party estimates put costs between $1.50 and $4.00 per endpoint per month, depending on volume.

Is NinjaOne reliable for macOS patching?

Not always. Users report reliability issues, including update loops and occasional failures to install macOS patches correctly.

How much does PDQ Connect cost?

Pricing is public: Basic starts at $12 per device per year, Plus is $18, and Premium is $28, all listed on PDQ's pricing page.

Does PDQ support Linux devices?

No. PDQ Connect and PDQ Deploy support Windows and macOS only, with no Linux support.

Can Tenable Patch Management be purchased on its own?

No. It requires an active subscription to Tenable Vulnerability Management, Tenable Security Center, or Tenable One, and is not sold as a standalone product, per Tenable's documentation.

Does Tenable Patch Management support Mac computers?

Partially. It patches third-party applications on macOS but does not support operating system-level patching for Mac devices, according to Tenable's user guide.

How is the best Patch Management & Software Update Tools for Contractors decided?

Every product is scored on six criteria for this category, with cited evidence and documented penalties. Rank follows the overall score. Vendors cannot pay for a position.

How often is this ranking updated?

Products are re-scored when pricing, features or evidence change. This ranking was last updated August 4, 2026.

05

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