Our Product Director for Mobile, Ian Boyce, explains what Mobile Device Management is, and why it’s important for every business utilising mobile devices.
Why Mobile Device Management?
Developments in mobile technology, combined with changes in work patterns following COVID, have resulted in more businesses embracing remote working and deploying mobile devices to employees.
However, as organisations increasingly rely on mobiles, the ability to secure data held on these devices and protect the access they provide to company networks becomes essential. No business would consider deploying a PC or laptop to a member of staff before installing anti-virus software and securing it behind a firewall; the same should be true for mobile devices as they are equally vulnerable to cyber threats and data theft.
What is Mobile Device Management?
Mobile Device Management (MDM) is any type of software that allows IT Departments to automate, control and secure administrative policies on laptops, smartphones, tablets, or any other device connected to an organisation’s network.
Alongside device enrolment, typical functionality includes the ability to control device configuration, protect data, monitor the status and compliance of devices, and manage enterprise-approved apps, all across multiple platforms and operating systems.
Organisations looking to obtain Cyber Essentials Certification will require their mobile devices to be managed via MDM.
Which Mobile Device Management?
Following the recognition that an MDM solution is required, the first important decision is which solution to use. Like any piece of software, solutions will range in price and feature set, so a business will first need to establish what their requirements are and the budget available.
Some key suppliers include Samsung Knox Manage (compatible with Android and IOS), SOTI, Microsoft Intune, MaaS 360 and Manage Engine. These all provide a strong, feature-rich solution, although some are more basic than others. To help provide a better understanding, we’ve included an overview of some of these solutions below.
Microsoft InTune is a part of the overall management suite. It is the least feature-rich and has the most complex configuration as it deals with the entire Microsoft estate and all managed devices. Unlike other solutions, Intune does not have remote management access to devices, location tracking and other advanced features, as MDM is a by-product of the solution. The benefit of using Intune is that the licence is often included in the Microsoft suite, which means there is no need for additional licensing costs beyond what has already been invested.
SOTI is an established Premium MDM solution, offering a full suite of features included for more complex requirements, such as detailed location tracking and excellent functionality to manage usage when abroad.
Samsung Knox Manage, although built and provided by Samsung, is compatible with Apple devices making it the most inclusive solution for your mobile fleet. Features include Geo-fencing, remote wipe and remote support. Knox is the most cost-effective and a wide selection of useful management features meaning it offers great value.
Setting up
After selecting a preferred solution, the setup process becomes the next challenge. If there is no in-house knowledge or resource available internally, setting up and maintaining all devices to ensure proper management can become time-consuming. If not managed correctly, you run the risk of a security breach or loss of service across your fleet of devices. If your company is operating a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy, there is also the risk of potential disruption to the employee’s personal handset.
How can we help?
SCG are experts in the design and deployment of a range of MDM solutions to suit all business requirements. If you would like to discuss deploying Mobile Device Management and securing your devices, please contact us on 0800 090 1965 or sales@scgconnected.co.uk.