All About Atera

Atera has become a leading player in the IT management landscape, offering a suite of tools designed to streamline operations for IT departments and managed service providers (MSPs). Known for its innovative approach to integrating remote monitoring and management (RMM), patch management, and operational automation, Atera has evolved significantly since its inception. This article explores Atera’s growth journey from its early years, the evolution of its product suite, key challenges faced, and reviews of its flagship and notable products.

The Founding of Atera and Its Growth Journey

Atera Networks, commonly known as Atera, was founded in 2011 by Gil Pekelman and Oshri Moyal in Israel. Originally conceived as a startup with a vision to transform IT management through advanced, predictive technology. Atera quickly expanded its offerings to include comprehensive IT management software that integrates remote monitoring and management (RMM), patch management, and operational automation. The company continued its growth trajectory, with focus on addressing the inefficiencies and limitations of existing solutions, reaching over 1 million device installations by 2018 and adding its first partners to the marketplace in 2019.

Gil Pekelman and Oshri Moyal, the founders of Atera, brought a wealth of experience and a shared vision for revolutionizing IT management. Their background in technology and entrepreneurship provided the foundation for Atera’s growth and innovation. Pekelman and Moyal’s leadership has been instrumental in steering the company through its early stages and subsequent expansion.

Here’s the timeline of key events:

• 2011: Atera is founded by Gil Pekelman and Oshri Moyal.
• 2016: Atera launches its initial product, marking the beginning of its journey in IT management software.
• 2017: The company introduces support for Mac agents, expanding its compatibility and user base.
• 2018: Atera achieves a significant milestone with over 1 million devices installed.
• 2019: Atera adds its first partners to the marketplace, broadening its ecosystem.
• 2020: Atera raises $25 million in its first funding round, fueling further development and expansion.
• 2021: Atera secures $77 million in a Series B funding round, reaching a valuation of $500 million.
• 2022: The company launches its product tailored for enterprise IT teams, enhancing its offerings.
• 2023: Atera integrates OpenAI Codex into its RMM platform and expands with Microsoft Azure-OpenAI integration, introducing AI-powered IT features.
• 2024: Atera rolls out its Copilot and Autopilot features globally, representing a major advancement in IT management.

Evolution of Its Product Suite

Atera’s product suite has evolved significantly since its inception. Initially focused on basic RMM, patch management, and other IT management functionalities, the platform has grown to incorporate advanced features. Recognizing the potential of AI and machine learning, Atera began integrating these technologies into its platform. The addition of AI-driven features, such as predictive analytics and automated script generation, marked a significant evolution in its product suite. These advancements allowed for more efficient management and enhanced decision-making capabilities.

The introduction of Mac agent support and the integration with Microsoft Azure-OpenAI demonstrate Atera's commitment to expanding its capabilities and enhancing efficiency. Recent innovations include the introduction of AI-powered features like Copilot and Autopilot. The platform now offers a unified solution that combines RMM, patch management, help desk, and ticketing systems with cutting-edge AI to streamline IT operations and improve productivity. These developments reflect Atera’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to address evolving IT management needs and provide a more comprehensive solution.

Challenges and How They Were Addressed

1. Funding and Growth Management: For years, Atera operated without external funding, which limited its growth. The company overcame this by raising $25 million in 2020 and an additional $77 million in 2021, allowing for significant expansion and product development.
2. Scaling Product Capabilities: As Atera's customer base grew, there was a need for more advanced features. This challenge was addressed by integrating AI technologies and expanding the product suite to include advanced automation and predictive analytics.
3. Competitive Market: To stand out in a competitive IT management market, Atera focused on unique offerings such as its deep integration with Microsoft Azure-OpenAI and AI-powered features, setting it apart from other solutions.
4. Technological Integration: Initially, integrating various technologies and third-party software posed challenges. Atera addressed this by developing a comprehensive platform that seamlessly integrates with existing systems and enhances functionality.
5. Global Expansion: Expanding its reach to a global audience required robust infrastructure and support. Atera met this challenge by rolling out features like Copilot and Autopilot, designed to improve IT management efficiency at scale worldwide.

Atera Core Product Offerings

• Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) Atera’s Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) software is an all-in-one solution designed to enhance IT management by providing comprehensive visibility and control. It transforms IT operations from a reactive to a proactive stance, allowing IT departments and managed service providers to monitor, manage, and optimize their IT environments seamlessly from a single platform.
• Professional Services Automation (PSA) Atera simplifies task management and communication through its Professional Services Automation tools. This includes intuitive helpdesk functionalities, streamlined billing processes, and comprehensive reporting capabilities. These features are designed to make everyday IT tasks more efficient and manageable, improving overall operational efficiency.
• Patch Management Atera automates the process of patching for Windows, Mac, and other operating systems and software. This ensures that all end-user devices are up-to-date with the latest security patches and updates, reducing vulnerabilities and maintaining system integrity.
• Remote Access With Atera, remote access is made easy through integrations with popular tools like AnyDesk and Splashtop, or by incorporating TeamViewer and ScreenConnect for those with existing licenses. This functionality allows IT professionals to start sessions directly from alerts, tickets, or devices, facilitating quick and effective support.
• Helpdesk Atera’s helpdesk solution is tailored specifically for IT departments, offering an intuitive and user-friendly interface. It supports live chat and efficient ticket management, allowing IT teams to communicate effectively with end-users and handle support requests more efficiently.
• Network Discovery The Network Discovery feature provides a thorough security scan and a complete view of all networks and devices within an organization. It automatically updates to reflect changes, ensuring that IT teams have accurate and current information about their IT environment at all times.

Flagship Product: Atera RMM

Choosing a comprehensive RMM platform is crucial for ensuring day-to-day efficiency in any IT department or technology solutions business. Atera stands out as one of the top RMM and IT management platforms. It has consistently received positive reviews from various review sites for its ease of use, customer experience, features, performance, reliability, and value for money. Designed specifically for IT departments and MSPs, Atera offers the capability to manage IT assets, workflows, and tasks all in one place. A free trial is available on request.

Key Features:

• Real-Time Monitoring and Alerts: With Atera, you can customize alert settings through the ‘threshold profile' feature, ensuring you receive notifications only for critical issues.
• Mac Remote Monitoring and Management: Atera simplifies Mac RMM with a single, unified agent that provides comprehensive visibility and control over Mac environments.
• Complete Activity Log: Every action or command performed by users is automatically logged into Atera's central database.
• SNMP Monitoring: Atera supports automatic SNMP monitoring for Linux-based devices such as routers, firewalls, and PCs.
• Linux Remote Monitoring and Management: With Atera's Linux RMM agent, users gain complete visibility and control over Linux environments.
• Server Monitoring: This feature helps IT teams maintain server reliability, quickly address issues, and ensure optimal operation across their infrastructure.

Why Do We Recommend It?

Atera RMM is recommended due to its comprehensive integration of RMM, PSA, and helpdesk functionalities in a single platform. I found that this integration simplifies the management and automation of a wide range of IT services. The platform's user-friendly interface enhances ease of use and accelerates the setup process, making it accessible even to those with limited technical expertise.

Who Is It Recommended For?

Atera RMM is well-suited for a wide range of businesses and organizations, including MSPs, SMBs, IT departments, remote workers, and businesses with diverse IT environments.

Notable Product 1: Atera PSA

Atera PSA is a professional service automation (PSA) software designed to streamline and enhance IT service management. It provides a unified, intuitive dashboard for managing all aspects of IT operations, including ticketing, accounting, and reporting. With Atera’s all-in-one 360° view, users can optimize communication with end users and efficiently handle various tasks from a single platform, offering next-level PSA capabilities for comprehensive IT management. A free trial is available on request.

Key Features:

• Ticketing System: Email-to-ticket functionality, mobile app management, and customizable automation for efficient ticket handling.
• Customer Portal: White-label options, robust knowledge base, and synchronized ticket and communication management.
• Flexible Contracts and Billing: Customizable contracts, SLA management, and seamless integration with QuickBooks and Xero.
• Advanced Reporting and Analytics: Automated and customizable reports, including performance, satisfaction, and profitability metrics.
• AI Ticket Tagging and Automation: AI-driven ticket categorization and automated management rules for improved efficiency.
• Customizable Alerts and Monitoring; Offers customizable alerts and monitoring, allowing MSPs to proactively manage client systems.
• Mobile Accessibility: Manage help desk functions and tickets directly from the mobile app.
• Integrated Billing and Invoicing: Atera PSA includes built-in billing and invoicing features, allowing for seamless financial management.
• Integration with Third-Party Tools: Atera PSA supports integration with various third-party applications, enabling MSPs to connect the platform with other tools they use.
• Reports and Analytics: Atera PSA automatically generates reports, allowing you to put data first, and provide the answers you need to do your job effectively.

Why Do We Recommend It?

Atera PSA is recommended for its ability to streamline operations by centralizing project management, time tracking, invoicing, and reporting into one platform, which eliminates the need for multiple tools and enhances workflow efficiency. I noted that its automation features save time and reduce errors, allowing MSPs to focus on high-value activities and boost productivity. Detailed reporting and analytics help improve profitability by offering insights into business performance and resource allocation.

Who Is It Recommended For?

Atera PSA is recommended for MSPs seeking a comprehensive solution for project management, time tracking, invoicing, and reporting. It is also ideal for Small and SMBs looking to enhance operational efficiency and profitability with limited IT resources. Additionally, professional services firms, such as consulting or design agencies, can benefit from Atera PSA’s robust project management and time-tracking features.

Notable Product 2: Atera Patch Management

Atera Patch Management is an advanced solution that streamlines and automates the process of updating and securing hardware, software, and operating systems. By allowing users to create customized schedules for each endpoint, Atera ensures that patches are applied efficiently and effectively, reducing the time and effort typically required for manual updates. This approach helps achieve cybersecurity best practices and provides comprehensive control over IT environments, minimizing downtime and enhancing overall security. A free trial is available on request.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive Reporting: Provides detailed reports on patching posture, with the ability to install missing patches directly from the reports.
• IT Automation: Automates the patching process to reduce the risk of cyberattacks, increase device lifespan, and ensure business continuity. Includes one-click onboarding and automated setup for new devices.
• Software Bundles: Create and reuse software bundles for repetitive tasks like onboarding or department-specific setups, enhancing efficiency.
• Linux Patch Management: Manage and update installed Linux packages easily with Atera’s Package Manager, ensuring system security and up-to-date software.
• macOS Patch Management: Streamline the management and security of both Windows and macOS devices with straightforward patch updates and maintenance.

Why Do We Recommend It?

Atera Patch Management, a key feature of the Atera platform, automates and streamlines the application of software updates and patches to endpoints. I learned that it enhances security by protecting against vulnerabilities, improves performance by ensuring devices run the latest versions, reduces risk through automation and minimizes human error, and supports compliance with industry regulations by maintaining up-to-date software.

Who Is It Recommended For?

Atera Patch Management is recommended for MSPs who need to automate patch deployment across various client environments, SMBs seeking to enhance security and performance with automated updates, and internal IT departments looking to streamline their patch management processes. It also helps organizations with remote workforces that require consistent updates to ensure security across distributed devices.

Wrap-Up

Atera has established itself as a leading player in the IT management landscape by offering a robust and integrated suite of tools designed to streamline operations for IT departments and managed service providers. Founded in 2011 by Gil Pekelman and Oshri Moyal, Atera has undergone significant evolution, from its initial launch to incorporating cutting-edge AI and machine learning technologies. The company's ability to secure substantial funding, innovate its product offerings, and expand globally underscores its commitment to addressing the dynamic needs of IT management.

Atera's product suite, including its flagship RMM platform, patch management, and help desk solutions, exemplifies its focus on enhancing operational efficiency and proactive IT management. While challenges such as scaling, market competition, and global expansion have tested the company's resilience, Atera has navigated these obstacles effectively, positioning itself as a reliable choice for organizations seeking advanced, AI-powered IT management solutions. Whether for small to mid-sized enterprises or large organizations, Atera's comprehensive tools offer valuable capabilities that can drive efficiency and effectiveness in IT operations.