Key takeaways
- Script looping automates repetitive RMM tasks, saving technicians time and increasing consistency.
- Loops can run through lists of applications, endpoints, or data points automatically.
- Pairing loops with conditional logic (If/Then/Else) enables smarter automation decisions.
- Proper testing, documentation, and OS tagging ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Reusable loops and AI assistance allow MSPs to scale automation faster across client environments.
Automation can reduce technician workload by as much as 40%, according to ConnectWise partner data. Yet many IT teams and managed service providers (MSPs) still spend hours performing repetitive steps to uninstall apps, update software, or check configurations across multiple endpoints. These manual routines consume valuable time and increase the risk of mistakes that affect performance and security.
Learning how to make a script loop changes that dynamic. Script looping allows teams to automate recurring remote monitoring and management (RMM) or systems management tasks using logic-based actions that run consistently across devices, applications, or datasets. The outcome is faster execution, greater accuracy, and more time for higher-value work.
For both MSPs and IT departments, script loops are a practical way to scale automation while maintaining control. Based on powerful insights from my session, Script Looping in RMM, at IT Nation Connect Global™ 2025, this blog explores the benefits of script loops and offers actionable steps to leverage them for your business.
The power of scripting in modern RMM
Scripting is the backbone of automation for MSPs. It helps teams proactively manage devices, install applications, and remediate issues before users even notice. However, writing and running individual scripts for each task can quickly eat up valuable time.
By integrating scripting directly into ConnectWise RMM™, partners can automate repetitive jobs, improve accuracy, and reduce technician fatigue. Instead of reacting to issues, MSPs can focus on scaling services and improving client satisfaction.
What is script looping?
Script looping allows a single script to execute repeatedly for every item in a list or dataset, such as a list of installed software applications or connected devices.
In practice, a loop iterates through a variable, for example, @SoftwareName@, and performs a defined action for each entry. This could be uninstalling unauthorized software, checking service status, or logging device configurations.
Without loops, you must run a script once for each device or application. With loops, the script automatically cycles through all devices or variables, completing the job in a fraction of the time.
This makes looping ideal for MSPs managing hundreds of endpoints or maintaining security policies across multiple clients.
Learn more about RMM scripting fundamentals in the ConnectWise RMM documentation >>
How to make a script loop in ConnectWise RMM
From the ConnectWise RMM script editor, technicians can create, test, and deploy loop-based automation using just a few key steps:
- Navigate to automation > tasks > add > script editor.
- Assign a descriptive script name and select the correct category (application, custom, etc.).
- Use the “set predefined variable” function to define what data the loop will access, such as software names.
- Create a loop using the “for each in” field and reference your variable (for example, @SoftwareName@).
- Add logic to determine what the script should do if specific criteria are met.
For example, MSPs can use loops to detect and uninstall unauthorized applications. If the variable SoftwareName contains “Google Drive,” the script can automatically remove it, ensuring compliance and preventing data leakage.
Adding logic for smarter script automation
Loops become far more powerful when combined with conditional logic.
For instance:
- If the script detects “Google Drive,” it logs the finding and uninstalls the software.
- Else, it writes “Google Drive not found” to the script log.
This ensures every iteration produces clear, actionable data. Technicians can verify results, confirm success, and troubleshoot failures without guesswork.
Always include OS tagging and script notes with every step. This best practice helps future technicians understand exactly what each loop does and maintains consistency across teams.
Testing and validation: Automation with guardrails
Before deploying any script in production, always test it on a controlled device.
Use the “save and run” function in RMM, then check the automation tab under the endpoint’s device view. Review the script log for entries that confirm the loop ran correctly.
ConnectWise recommends capturing the %output% from PowerShell commands to confirm what happened on each run. This makes it easier to troubleshoot syntax errors, permissions issues, or missing variables.
Pro tip: Case sensitivity in PowerShell scripts is a common source of false negatives. Double-check variable naming to ensure consistency across loops.
For more guidance, see ConnectWise University’s scripting best practices.
Scaling automation: The rinse and repeat advantage
Once a loop-based script is tested and verified, it can easily be duplicated and adapted for other tasks.
From the “rinse and repeat” section of my presentation at IT Nation Connect Global 2025, I recommend duplicating a successful loop and adjusting the conditional statements to target additional applications or system events. This allows MSPs to build a library of reusable automation templates that deliver consistent results.
Over time, a well-documented script library can become a cornerstone of operational efficiency, reducing technician effort, increasing standardization, and supporting proactive service delivery.
Best practices for scripting
- Document every step. Use script notes and OS tags for transparency.
- Leverage AI assistance. Generate PowerShell templates faster, then test before production.
- Standardize naming. Keep variable and loop names clear and consistent.
- Centralize storage. Maintain a shared script library for your team.
- Automate the audit. Schedule scripts that check compliance or patch status on a regular basis.
For more automation insights, visit the ConnectWise RMM page.
Loop your way to efficiency
Script looping isn’t just a technical trick. It’s a scalable strategy that transforms RMM automation from reactive to proactive. By mastering loops, MSPs can dramatically reduce manual effort, improve accuracy, and ensure consistency across all client environments.
The result is more time for strategic projects, less technician burnout, and stronger client satisfaction.
Ready to automate smarter? Visit our website to learn more about ConnectWise RMM scripting.
