A comprehensive guide to securing and managing your devices.
With the increase in remote work and the introduction of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies, businesses are relying more and more on mobile technology. Managing and securing a diverse fleet of smartphones, tablets and laptops has become a priority. Mobile Device Management (MDM) software provides the necessary functionality to manage mobile devices in the organization, protecting data, operational efficiency, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
In this guide, we will explain what MDM is, the important features to consider, and provide a detailed comparison of the best mobile device management software available today.
MDM software can best be described as a way for an IT administration or IT Department to manage and secure mobile devices in use for the organization. MDM software is a crucial and essential part of every modern cybersecurity and proactive technology strategy. It also gives the IT admin the ability to centrally manage the ever-increasing number of endpoints being used by mobile devices.
The critical functions of MDM include:
Security Enforcement - MDM gives you the ability to enforce security policies like strong passwords, screen lock timers, and encryption of data. If a mobile device is lost or stolen, you can perform a remote lock or a remote wipe of data.
Application Management - MDM allows you to control installed apps, block apps/unauthorized software, and push out mandatory updates.
Device Provisioning - MDM simplifies the process of setting up new devices with pre-configured settings, Wi-Fi networks, and business applications.
Monitoring and Reporting - Administrators can monitor device health, track real-time locations, and generate reports on usage and compliance.
Choosing the most appropriate MDM solution for your companies is a strategic decision. You don't want to select based on popularity, rather select the option that meets your needs. Consider.
Device and OS Compatibility - The most important factor is to ensure the software supports all devices and operating systems (iOS, Android, Windows, MacOS) your team uses. If your company is across a mix of device types, you are going to need a cross-platform tool.
Security Controls - Look for security controls that are more advanced, including zero-trust network access, geo-fencing capabilities, and secure containerization of business applications. Your solution should help you meet compliance requirements (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS).
Ease of Use and Scalability - A good MDM solution should be easy to deploy and manage, particularly for non-tech-savvy employees. It should also be scalable, so that as your company grows, you can manage 10 devices or 10,000.
Pricing and Total Cost of Ownership - Compare pricing models (per user vs. per device) and assess any hidden costs. A pricer solution with a complete feature set will often be less expensive over time than a cheaper solution without essential security controls.
Customer Support and Training - Look for customer support quality, training resources, and vendor reputation. Support is critical when a security incident occurs.
| Software | Best For | Key Features | Starting Price | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VMware Workspace ONE | Large Enterprises | UEM, Zero-Trust Security, AI-driven insights | $3/user/month | Scalable, advanced security, cross-platform | High learning curve, complex for SMBs |
| Microsoft Intune | Microsoft-centric Businesses | Conditional Access, Azure AD integration, Remote Provisioning | $6/user/month | Excellent for Windows, seamless integration | Limited features for non-Microsoft devices |
| Jamf Pro | Apple Ecosystems | Automated Enrollment, Detailed Analytics, Apple-focused support | $4/user/month | Tailored for Apple, user-friendly for Mac admins | No support for Android or Windows |
| ManageEngine MDM Plus | Cost-Conscious SMBs | Role-Based Admin, Multi-device support, Remote Troubleshooting | $1.95/device/month | Very affordable, user-friendly | Limited scalability for very large firms |
| Scalefusion | Simplicity & Ease of Use | Remote Troubleshooting, Kiosk Mode, Bulk Enrollment | $2/device/month | Simplified setup, great for quick deployment | Less robust for complex enterprise needs |
We review the top MDM systems on the market and evaluate the systems' features, pricing, and how each is suitable for different types of businesses.
Best fit for Enterprise-Size Businesses.
VMware Workspace ONE is a leader in Unified Endpoint Management (UEM), a single platform to manage and secure all devices – from smartphones to laptops to IoT devices. It’s great for large enterprises with complex multi-OS environments. Its strength is in its scalability and security framework which includes a zero-trust security model and AI driven automation. But its comprehensive nature means it has a steeper learning curve and is too complex for small to medium sized businesses (SMBs).
Best for businesses that operate everything through Microsoft.
If you’re a Microsoft shop Microsoft Intune is the way to go. It’s tightly integrated with Microsoft 365, Azure Active Directory and Windows so it’s easy to manage devices and enforce security policies across your network. Conditional access policies ensure only compliant devices can access company data. It’s unbeatable for Windows environments but less advanced and less flexible for non-Microsoft devices.
Best Overall for Apple-Only Environment
For organizations that are 100% Apple, Jamf Pro is the gold standard. It provides a seamless and powerful management experience for Mac, iPhone and iPad. Features like automated device enrollment and detailed analytics for the Apple ecosystem make it a favorite among IT admins. The only drawback is it’s focused on Apple, it’s not a solution for organizations that use a mix of operating systems like Android or Windows.
Best for Cost-Conscious Businesses
ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus is a feature packed, enterprise grade solution at a fraction of the cost. It’s great for SMBs and educational institutions looking for MDM capabilities without the price tag. It supports multiple devices and has remote troubleshooting and role based administration. While it’s great value, it may not have the same scalability or premium features as more expensive enterprise focused solutions.
Best for Simplicity and Ease of Use
For organizations that want a quick and easy setup, Scalefusion is the way to go. Its user friendly interface and simple deployment process makes it perfect for organizations with limited IT resources. It’s known for its robust features for locking down devices for single purpose use (kiosk mode) and remote troubleshooting tools. While it excels at simple tasks, it lacks some of the deep customization and advanced security features of more complex enterprise solutions.
Utilizing an MDM solution offers many gifts besides security alone. It's a tool to create efficiencies and promote productivity.
Improved Security: Protect sensitive business information from theft and breaches with the assurance of policies, encryptions, and the ability to remotely wipe data if a device is lost or stolen.
Increased Productivity: Automate repeated tasks like app installation and configuration so that employees are productive right out of the box with a new device.
Single Pane of Glass: Have a single view to manage mobile devices, making admin for all devices manageable and ensuring compliance throughout the organization.
Which mobile device management software is right for you depends on the size of your organization, budget and needs. For a large enterprise, you need the horsepower of a solution such as VMware Workspace ONE or Microsoft Intune to accommodate your growth. For small and medium businesses, ManageEngine MDM Plus and Scalefusion offer a solid feature set at a great value.
By reviewing and qualifying the options presented for organizations and their needs, you will be well-positioned to choose the ideal MDM to help secure your mobile workforce and optimize your business.
MDM software is a tool that allows IT administrators to manage, monitor, and secure mobile devices within an organization. It helps ensure devices are compliant with company policies and protected against security threats.
MDM is crucial for maintaining security, compliance, and productivity in a business. It allows IT administrators to remotely manage devices, enforce security policies, and ensure that devices are up to date with the latest software and security patches.
Key features to look for include device enrollment, policy management, app distribution, security management, remote control, and compliance monitoring. The best MDM software should also support multiple platforms and offer a user-friendly interface.
Consider factors such as the size of your organization, the types of devices you need to manage, your budget, and the specific features you require. It's also important to read reviews and compare different MDM solutions to find the best fit for your needs.
Yes, many MDM solutions support both company-owned and personal devices (BYOD). They provide features to separate work and personal data, ensuring that company information remains secure while allowing employees to use their own devices.