VSA

Basic Information

• Model/Version: Kaseya VSA (Virtual System Administrator) is available in multiple generations, including VSA 9, VSA 10, and VSA X.
• Latest Stable Version: As of late 2025, recent feature releases include VSA 9.5.24 (August 29, 2025) and VSA 10.8.
• Release Date: Feature releases are frequent, with recent examples being 9.5.24 on August 29, 2025, and 9.5.22 on March 1, 2025.
• Minimum Requirements (Agent): 1 GHz or faster processor, 512 MB RAM, 850 MB (x86) or 2 GB (x64) hard disk space. Older agents may require 333 MHz CPU, 128 MB RAM, and 30 MB free disk space.
• Minimum Requirements (Server): 2.4 GHz processor, 4 GB RAM (10+ GB recommended), 80 GB hard drive (SSD recommended). For VSA 10 on-premises, a minimum of 8 GB RAM is required.
• Supported Operating Systems (Agent):
  • Windows: 10, 11, Server 2016, 2019, 2022, 2025.
  • macOS: 13 (Ventura), 14 (Sonoma), 15 (Sequoia).
  • Linux: Debian 10+, Ubuntu 20.04-24.04 LTS, CentOS 8.x, AlmaLinux 8.x/9.x, Rocky Linux 8.x/9.x, Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8.x/9.x, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 12.5/15 SP3+, SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 15 SP5+, openSUSE Leap 15.5+.
• Supported Operating Systems (Server): Windows Server 2016, 2019, 2022. VSA 10 supports Windows Server 2016+.
• End of Support Date: Support for Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2, and SQL Server 2012 and 2014 ended on September 30, 2024. Support for the 32-bit Live Connect technician application ends May 31, 2025. Kaseya supports the current GA release and one prior Feature Release.
• End of Life Date: The VSA product family was scheduled to begin its EOL process on March 17 (year not specified, but refers to a specific product family within VSA). VSA 9 continues to run, but development focuses on VSA X.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not explicitly specified; SaaS customers receive automatic updates.
• License Type: Commercial.
• Deployment Model: On-premises and SaaS (cloud-based).

Analysis of Basic Information

Kaseya VSA is a mature RMM solution with a continuous development cycle, evidenced by frequent feature releases. It offers broad compatibility across major operating systems for its agents, catering to diverse IT environments. Server requirements are typical for enterprise applications, scaling with the number of managed endpoints. The availability of both on-premises and SaaS deployment models provides flexibility for organizations. Users should note the end-of-support dates for older OS and SQL Server versions to ensure continued compatibility and security. The shift in development focus from VSA 9 to VSA X indicates an ongoing evolution of the platform.

Technical Requirements

• RAM:
  • Agent: 128 MB (older), 512 MB (VSA 10 agents).
  • Server: 4 GB (minimum), 10+ GB (recommended), 8 GB minimum for VSA 10 on-premises.
• Processor:
  • Agent: 333 MHz or greater (older), 1 GHz or faster (VSA 10 agents).
  • Server: 2.4 GHz (minimum), scaling up to 8 cores minimum for 20,000 active agents.
• Storage:
  • Agent: 30 MB (older), 100 MB (current agents), 850 MB (x86) or 2 GB (x64) for VSA 10 agents.
  • Server: 80 GB (minimum), with SSD storage recommended for optimal performance. Kaseya application volume may require 120 GB (C:\) and 500 GB (D:\).
• Display: Not explicitly specified for general use, but Live Connect supports full-screen and high-resolution monitors.
• Ports:
  • Agent: TCP/IP Outbound Port 5721 (configurable), UDP/TCP Outbound Port 3478 to stun.kaseya.com for Remote Control optimization.
  • Server: Web UI: 443 inbound and outbound (80 also used by IIS), Email Notifications: 25 outbound, Agent connections: 5721 inbound.
• Operating System: Refer to "Basic Information" for detailed supported OS lists for both agents and server.

Analysis of Technical Requirements

Kaseya VSA's technical requirements are scalable, accommodating both minimal agent footprints and robust server deployments. Agent requirements are relatively light, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of endpoint hardware. Server requirements, particularly for RAM and processor, increase significantly with the number of managed agents, emphasizing the need for proper sizing in enterprise environments. The recommendation for SSD storage highlights the importance of I/O performance for the VSA server. Specific port configurations are necessary for agent-server communication and remote control functionality, requiring careful firewall management.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: Kaseya VSA maintains active development with recent feature releases such as 9.5.24 (August 29, 2025) and 10.8.
• OS Support:
  • Windows: Agents support Windows 10, 11, and Server versions 2016, 2019, 2022, 2025. The VSA server supports Windows Server 2016, 2019, 2022.
  • macOS: Agents support macOS 13 (Ventura), 14 (Sonoma), and 15 (Sequoia).
  • Linux: Agents support various distributions including Debian, Ubuntu, CentOS, RHEL, AlmaLinux, Rocky Linux, SUSE, and openSUSE.
• End of Support Date: Kaseya's policy is to support the current General Availability (GA) release, one prior Feature Release, and any interim Maintenance Releases. Specific end-of-support dates include Windows Server 2012/R2 and SQL Server 2012/2014 (September 30, 2024), and the 32-bit Live Connect technician application (May 31, 2025).
• Localization: Not explicitly detailed in publicly available information.
• Available Drivers: Kaseya VSA deploys agents to managed machines; specific driver availability is managed through the platform's patch management and software deployment capabilities.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

Kaseya VSA demonstrates strong compatibility across a wide array of modern operating systems for its agents, ensuring broad applicability in diverse IT environments. The server component primarily relies on Windows Server and SQL Server. Kaseya's support policy focuses on recent releases, necessitating regular updates for users to maintain full support. While broad OS support is a strength, some users report delayed or limited feature support for macOS. The platform's integrated patch management helps maintain system currency and security.

Security Status

• Security Features:
  • Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Mandatory for all user logins, supporting TOTP via Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, Okta Verify, Duo Mobile, Twilio Authy, 1Password, and AuthAnvil.
  • Data Encryption: AES-256 for agent-server communication and Transport Layer Security (TLS) for remote control sessions. Implements encryption standards for data in transit and at rest.
  • Automated Patch Management: Streamlines OS and third-party application patching to reduce attack surface.
  • Endpoint Protection: Provides oversight of endpoints and integrates with AV/AM solutions.
  • Ransomware Detection: Native ransomware detection uses behavioral analysis to identify and quarantine threats.
  • Strong Passwords: Enforces a minimum of 16-character passwords, with configurable lockout attempts.
  • Firewall Restrictions: For on-premises deployments, restricting access to the VSA server/web interface to internal networks is recommended.
• Known Vulnerabilities: Kaseya VSA has a history of critical vulnerabilities, notably those exploited in the 2021 REvil ransomware attack. These included SQL injection (CVE-2021-30116), credentials disclosure, 2FA bypass, and reflective XSS.
• Blacklist Status: Not officially blacklisted, but the 2021 REvil attack significantly impacted its security reputation.
• Certifications: Supports ITIL Policy Compliance.
• Encryption Support: AES-256 and TLS for communications; general encryption standards for data at rest and in transit.
• Authentication Methods: Username/password combined with mandatory Time-based One-Time Password (TOTP) 2FA. Basic authentication for REST API is being phased out.
• General Recommendations: Adherence to Kaseya's security best practices, including regular VSA application updates, mandatory MFA, strong password policies, and proper firewall configurations for on-premises instances.

Analysis of Overall Security Rating

Kaseya VSA incorporates a comprehensive suite of security features, including mandatory 2FA, robust encryption, and automated patch management, which are crucial for protecting IT environments. The platform also offers native ransomware detection and strong password policies. However, the platform has faced significant security challenges, particularly the 2021 REvil ransomware attack that exploited critical vulnerabilities. This history underscores the paramount importance of prompt patching, diligent adherence to security recommendations, and continuous monitoring to mitigate risks. While Kaseya has enhanced its security posture, users must remain vigilant and proactive in implementing all available security measures.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores: Specific, publicly available benchmark scores are not readily detailed.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: User feedback indicates that Kaseya VSA agents generally consume low CPU resources. However, connection times to workstations can vary, ranging from 30 seconds to 5 minutes, and overall efficiency and speed can be inconsistent.
• Power Consumption: Not explicitly detailed in available information.
• Carbon Footprint: Not explicitly detailed in available information.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Kaseya VSA is recognized as a feature-rich RMM solution. When compared to alternatives like Xcitium, Kaseya VSA is primarily focused on IT management, while competitors may offer more specialized advanced cybersecurity features.

Analysis of Overall Performance Status

Kaseya VSA's performance is generally considered acceptable for its role as an RMM platform, with agents designed to be lightweight on managed endpoints. While specific benchmark data is not widely published, user experiences suggest that the platform's efficiency can fluctuate, particularly concerning remote connection speeds. The system's scalability is a key aspect, with server hardware requirements increasing significantly with the number of managed agents to maintain performance. Overall, Kaseya VSA provides functional performance for its intended use cases, though consistency in certain operations could be improved.

User Reviews & Feedback

User feedback for Kaseya VSA highlights both significant strengths and areas needing improvement.

• Strengths:
  • Ease of Use & Automation: Many users appreciate the platform's ease of use and efficient management from a single console. Its automation capabilities, particularly for patch management and remote scripting, are highly valued for streamlining IT operations.
  • Comprehensive Features: Kaseya VSA is praised for its extensive RMM features, including device monitoring, IT automation, remote access and control (Live Connect), inventory management, and robust auditing and reporting.
  • Remote Access: The Live Connect module is frequently cited for its ability to provide efficient remote support and minimize disruption to end-users.
  • Community Support: A large and active community provides readily available hotfixes and answers to common questions.
• Weaknesses:
  • Interface & Reporting: Users frequently suggest improvements to the user interface, which some describe as outdated, and reporting functionalities, often requiring extensive customization.
  • Connectivity & Remote Access Issues: Connectivity problems are a common complaint, impacting the reliability of remote access and integrations. Issues such as mandatory user authorization and frequent crashes on macOS are noted.
  • Feature & Installation Issues: Some users report difficulties with installation, browser compatibility, and general feature reliability, including scripting and patch deployment.
  • Learning Curve: The platform can present a challenging learning curve for new users, particularly concerning setup and understanding its full range of features.
  • Security Concerns: Past ransomware attacks have heightened security concerns among users.
  • Mac Support: Mac operating system support is sometimes delayed and offers limited features compared to Windows.
  • Pricing & Support: Some users express dissatisfaction with unclear pricing structures, a push for multi-year contracts, and slow support response times.
• Recommended Use Cases: Kaseya VSA is ideal for large IT teams and Managed Service Providers (MSPs) seeking a unified solution for device monitoring, IT automation, patching, remote access, and mobile device management. It is particularly effective for securing work-from-home environments.

Summary

Kaseya VSA is a comprehensive enterprise asset management platform, offering robust remote monitoring and management capabilities crucial for IT teams and Managed Service Providers (MSPs). Its strengths lie in its extensive feature set, including automated patch management, efficient remote access via Live Connect, and broad compatibility across Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints. Users often praise its ease of use for core functions and the ability to streamline IT tasks through automation, supported by a large community.

However, Kaseya VSA faces criticisms regarding its user interface, which some find outdated, and reporting functionalities that often require significant customization. Connectivity issues and inconsistent remote access performance are also noted weaknesses, alongside a steep learning curve for new users. The platform's security history, particularly the 2021 REvil ransomware attack, underscores the critical need for continuous vigilance, prompt patching, and strict adherence to security best practices, despite the implementation of mandatory 2FA and strong encryption.

In summary, Kaseya VSA is a powerful tool for managing diverse IT environments, particularly for organizations that can leverage its automation and remote capabilities. Its ongoing development, with new versions like VSA 10 and VSA X, indicates a commitment to evolving the platform. Prospective and current users should prioritize staying updated with the latest releases, implementing all recommended security measures, and being prepared to navigate some of its reported usability challenges to maximize its value.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.