Mobile device management
Mobile devices occupy an increasingly important position in business IT infrastructure. While companies traditionally relied on bulky desktop computers, more and more now use a diverse array of smartphones, tablets, laptops, and IoT devices. Mobile devices are often easier for users, but they present unique challenges for IT teams. Time-honored methods of system administration may not cut it. That’s where mobile device management (MDM) comes in. MDM makes it quicker and easier to administer a business’s mobile productivity tools.
What is mobile device management?
Mobile device management (MDM) refers to administering and monitoring mobile devices in a business environment. Mobile device management software is designed to simplify the process. The software itself may also be called “MDM.” But whether you’re talking about the process or the solution, the goal of MDM remains the same: managing, securing, and monitoring mobile devices with as little hassle as possible.
Apple devices are particularly popular and have a built-in MDM framework, so MDM solutions frequently focus on iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and Apple TVs.
Must-have mobile device management features
Whether you maintain an impressive Mac fleet or you have a hybrid environment with just a handful of Apple devices, the right MDM solution allows quick and simple administration.
Zero-touch enrollment
In conjunction with Apple's Automated Device Enrollment (ADE) program, automatically link any iOS device purchased from Apple and Apple Authorized Resellers to your Apple Business Manager account.
Robust Munki integration provides additional app capabilities, including supporting the installation of a wider range of software and providing a self-serve app store.
Next-level support
With average response times under 30 minutes during business hours, you won’t have to wait around for answers. Just take a coffee break, and we’ll get back to you before the caffeine kicks in.
Real-time fleet visibility
A Device Details screen provides instant insight into OS version, hardware encryption, settings, installed apps, and more.
Audit logs
With the admin namespace, maintain an audit log of who did what and when within the admin portal and the API.
Device locations
Device tracking shows you the current and historic locations of devices. Perfect for finding missing devices and keeping track of on-the-go employees!
Profile reinstallation
Privacy Preferences Policy, Kernel Extensions Policy, FileVault, and Custom Configuration Profiles reinstall automatically when a device checks in after an OS update.
Company-owned license distribution
With Apple Apps and Books, you can assign licenses without requiring the user’s Apple ID.
Customizable configuration
Advanced configuration options give you the flexibility to automate workflows in a way that benefits your team.
Support for SAML or LDAP authentication allows you to integrate with your current identity provider that uses these protocols.
Distribution package validation
To help ensure they’re safe and trustworthy, distribution-style macOS packages must be signed using a valid Apple Developer ID.
Rapid, agentless deployment
An intuitive design makes deployments quick and easy. No need to install an agent on user devices!
What are the benefits of mobile device management?
In simple terms, mobile device management optimizes security and functionality by supporting identity and access management. This can have far-reaching effects:
Simplify provisioning
Improve workflows
Reduce the IT team’s workload
Control updates
Mitigate mobile security risks
Cut costs
Provide better support
Increase mobile productivity
Track devices
Support regulatory compliance
SimpleMDM vs. leading competitors
SimpleMDM’s mobile device management | Leading competitors | |
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Agentless deployment |
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Powerful API |
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Easy setup and use |
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Streamlined, intuitive interface |
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Extensive knowledge base |
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Speedy email support |
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30-day trial (no credit card required) |
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How do you incorporate mobile device management?
Implementing mobile device management typically requires careful planning and the use of an MDM solution. Consider these steps:
Assess the number of devices
Consider what tasks employees use their devices for
Assess what apps staff use
Incorporate MDM in a larger IT management strategy
Identify the operating systems (iOS, Chrome OS, etc.) you’ll need to manage
Establish clear policies
Explain the purpose and importance of MDM to employees
Train employees on the MDM platform
Make device enrollment quick and easy
Monitor for suspicious activity or data usage
Once you have the right processes and solutions in place, managing mobile devices should be easy. However, you need to put in time upfront if you want seamless MDM.
Mobile device management best practices
An ideal MDM program should simultaneously enhance mobile device security and employee productivity, but striking the right balance requires following best practices. These tips can help:
Prioritize data security
Maintain and enforce an acceptable use policy and a security policy
Cater to the operating system and device type
Know the limitations of your mobile device management tool
Provide self-service options for each managed device
Maintain corporate data backups
Push updates quickly to mitigate security risk
Restrict employee data collection
Be prepared to perform a remote device wipe if necessary
Use containerization technology for company-owned apps on employee-owned personal devices
With these best practices, you can ensure mobile devices in your environment are secure, up to date, and do not pose a major risk to your overall security posture or corporate network.
What devices can be managed through an MDM?
MDM tools can manage a wide range of devices. System requirements vary between platforms, but compatible devices may include the following:
Smartphones
Tablets
Laptops
Notebooks
Select IoT devices
Before investing in an MDM solution, investigate which devices and operating systems it supports to ensure it’s appropriate for your fleet.
How do you choose the right mobile device management solution?
To choose the best mobile device management solution for your business, take the time to understand your needs and assess how an MDM tool addresses them:
Set your budget
Weigh the appropriateness for BYOD and corporate devices
Assess the solution’s ability to protect company data
Consider the features and functionality
Think about how the MDM fits your process
Read customer stories
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, request a demo or sign up for a trial to see how each MDM solution works.
Ready to get started?
See how easy Apple MDM can be.
Try SimpleMDM free for 30 days — no credit card required.