Pricing
subscription
Best For
MSPs needing brandable, self-hosted remote support integrated with ConnectWise tools
Rating
8.4/10
Last Updated
Mar 2026
TL;DR
ScreenConnect (acquired by ConnectWise in 2015) is the go-to remote support tool for Managed Service Providers. The self-hosted deployment model gives you full control over your data. The customization is extensive — you can white-label the entire experience with your brand. Session tools include annotating screens, running background commands, and transferring files without interrupting the end user. At $33/month for a single technician (cloud) or a one-time license for on-premises, pricing favors organizations that do heavy remote support. Not ideal for simple remote access — it's built for IT professionals supporting other people's computers.
What is ConnectWise ScreenConnect?
The MSP's Choice
ConnectWise ScreenConnect (formerly just ScreenConnect) is purpose-built for IT support professionals and Managed Service Providers. While TeamViewer and AnyDesk serve everyone from grandparents to enterprise IT, ScreenConnect focuses specifically on the technician-supporting-a-client workflow. Every feature — from the session toolbox to the deployment model — reflects this focus.
Self-Hosted Control
ScreenConnect's on-premises deployment sets it apart. You host the relay server on your own infrastructure, meaning all connection data stays within your control. For MSPs handling healthcare, finance, or government clients, this data sovereignty matters. The cloud-hosted option exists for those who prefer it, but the self-hosted model is the core value proposition.
Session Toolbox
The in-session tools are the most comprehensive in the category. Annotation draws on the remote screen to guide users. Backstage mode runs commands without displaying anything on the user's screen. File transfer works in the background. You can transfer a session between technicians. The toolbox extension system lets you add custom scripts and tools. For support professionals, these capabilities save significant time per ticket.
ConnectWise Ecosystem
If you're already using ConnectWise Manage (PSA) and ConnectWise Automate (RMM), ScreenConnect integrates deeply. Support sessions link to tickets automatically. Agent deployment ties into your RMM inventory. Billing data flows into your PSA. This ecosystem lock-in is both the strength and the limitation — it's most valuable within ConnectWise, less so standalone.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Self-hosted deployment gives full control over connection data — critical for regulated industries
- Session toolbox is the most comprehensive for IT support with backstage mode and annotation
- White-label customization lets MSPs brand the entire support experience
- Deep ConnectWise PSA/RMM integration creates a unified IT service management workflow
- Extension system allows custom scripts and tools to be added to the session toolbox
Cons
- Built for IT support professionals — overly complex for simple personal remote access
- ConnectWise ecosystem dependency means less value if you use competing PSA/RMM tools
- Pricing at $33-46/month per technician is higher than TeamViewer or AnyDesk for basic needs
- On-premises deployment requires server maintenance and infrastructure management
- UI is functional for technicians but intimidating for end users receiving support
ConnectWise ScreenConnect Pricing
One (Cloud)
- 1 technician
- Unattended access (25 agents)
- Session recording
- File transfer
- Cloud hosted
Standard (Cloud)
- 3 technicians
- Unlimited agents
- Custom branding
- Backstage mode
- Extensions
- Priority support
Premium (On-Premises)
- On-premises hosting
- Full data control
- Unlimited agents
- Custom branding
- Extensions
- SSO
Pricing last verified: March 25, 2026
Who is ConnectWise ScreenConnect Best For?
- MSPs needing brandable, self-hosted remote support integrated with ConnectWise tools
- IT departments in regulated industries requiring full data sovereignty
- Support teams that need advanced in-session tools like backstage mode and annotation
- Organizations already invested in the ConnectWise ecosystem
Technical Details
The Bottom Line
ConnectWise ScreenConnect scores 8.4/10. It stands out for self-hosted deployment gives full control over connection data — critical for regulated industries. Best suited for msps needing brandable, self-hosted remote support integrated with connectwise tools. Keep in mind that built for it support professionals — overly complex for simple personal remote access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on editorial analysis