Remote Desktop for Mac Old Version: A Review

As a long-time user of Apple Remote Desktop, I can attest to its importance in managing my iMacs and providing IT support to my students. With ARD, I'm able to deploy software, shut down or lock screens, distribute files, offer on-screen help, and send discreet messages to individual students with ease.

I've been using ARD for over 10 years now, and while it has had its share of issues, I still consider it a valuable tool in my IT arsenal. One of the main reasons is that I can manage multiple computers remotely from different locations, even thousands of miles away. This feature has been particularly useful when dealing with clients who are not physically present.

However, like any software, ARD is not without its flaws. Over the years, I've noticed that it has become more buggy, resulting in reports hanging at times. But a simple reboot usually resolves the issue. Another annoyance is that sometimes clients disappear and need to be re-added manually. This can be time-consuming, especially when dealing with a large number of computers.

Despite these issues, ARD remains a powerful tool for system administration. With its ability to save workflows as plugins, combine actions with other applications, and chain actions together, it's possible to automate routine management tasks with ease.

One of the most useful features of ARD is its ability to update clients remotely if needed. This is especially important when dealing with older computers that may not be able to handle newer updates on their own. Forcing secure connections is also a crucial aspect of using ARD, as it ensures that data transmitted between computers remains safe and secure.

In terms of configuration, users can adjust settings in the Preferences menu to allow communication with older clients (less secure). This can help resolve issues related to forced updates on older computers.

Overall, while ARD has its limitations, I still believe it's one of the best tools for managing Mac computers. Its ability to automate routine tasks, provide remote support, and offer detailed reports makes it a valuable asset in any IT department. If you're looking for a reliable way to manage your Macs remotely, Apple Remote Desktop is definitely worth considering.

* Manage multiple computers remotely from different locations

* Automate routine management tasks using workflows and plugins

* Update clients remotely if needed

* Force secure connections to ensure data safety

* Configure settings in Preferences menu for compatibility with older clients

Apple Remote Desktop is a powerful tool that has been a staple in my IT toolkit for years. While it's not without its flaws, I still believe it's one of the best ways to manage Mac computers remotely. With its ability to automate routine tasks and provide detailed reports, ARD is a valuable asset in any IT department. Whether you're managing a few dozen or thousands of computers, Apple Remote Desktop is definitely worth considering.

Remote desktop for mac old version