Best 10 Mobile Device Management (MDM) Solutions For Business (2026)

We reviewed the leading MDM platforms on the range of device types and OS versions they support, remote management depth, and the application analytics that show what is running on managed devices.

Last updated on Jun 30, 2026
Caitlin Harris Written by Caitlin Harris
Laura Iannini Technical Review by Laura Iannini
Top 10 Mobile Device Management (MDM) Solutions

Mobile device management (MDM) solutions enable IT and security teams to monitor, manage, and secure all mobile devices connected to their corporate network, whether corporate-issued or BYOD, smartphones or laptops, iOS or Android.

To be able to do this, the best MDM solutions are compatible with a range of mobile device types and operating systems, including older versions, and enable admins to monitor the use, compliance, and health of each of those devices from a central console. They should also offer remote troubleshooting tools, app management, and policy enforcement capabilities.

We’ve researched the top mobile device management solutions, looking at features such as device compatibility, remote management and troubleshooting, application management, and reporting and analytics. We’ve also considered pricing, deployment options, and unique differentiating features.

What is IT Management?

Mobile device management (MDM) software gives IT teams centralized control over the smartphones, tablets, and laptops that employees use for work. From a single console, admins can enforce security policies, push app updates, lock or wipe lost devices, and monitor compliance across the entire fleet. MDM handles both corporate-issued devices and personally-owned (BYOD) devices, keeping corporate data secure without requiring physical access to hardware.

MDM platforms use platform-specific management protocols (Apple MDM, Android Enterprise, Windows CSP) to establish a control channel between the management server and enrolled endpoints. Enrollment methods include zero-touch provisioning (Apple DEP, Android zero-touch, Windows Autopilot), QR code, URL-based, and directory-integrated enrollment via Active Directory, Google Workspace, or Microsoft 365. Once enrolled, the management server pushes configuration profiles that enforce encryption, passcode complexity, VPN settings, app restrictions, and compliance policies. Application lifecycle management covers silent install, update, and removal of managed apps, with kiosk mode locking devices to approved applications for frontline and shared-use scenarios. BYOD deployments use containerization or work profile separation to isolate corporate data from personal use. Remote actions include lock, wipe, locate, restart, and screen viewing for troubleshooting. Enterprise platforms integrate with identity providers (Entra ID, Okta), SIEM tools, and conditional access frameworks to tie device compliance into broader zero-trust architectures.

Mobile Device Management (MDM) Solutions Compared

This table compares the 10 MDM platforms we reviewed across their core capabilities.

Product Best For Type iOS/Android Windows/macOS BYOD/Kiosk Zero-Touch
NinjaOne MDM
Unified IT operations with mobile management
IT Management Platform
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
JumpCloud MDM
Identity-driven device management
Identity + MDM
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Cisco Meraki Systems Manager
Large distributed Cisco environments
Cloud MDM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Citrix Endpoint Management
Citrix Workspace enterprises
UEM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Hexnode
Mixed-OS and BYOD environments
UEM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
IBM MaaS360
Large enterprises with AI-assisted policy management
UEM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus
Broad device coverage with remote troubleshooting
MDM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Microsoft Intune
Microsoft 365 environments
UEM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Rippling
HR-driven device lifecycle automation
HR + IT Platform
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Scalefusion
Retail, education, and logistics fleets
UEM
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes

How We Tested

Expert Insights independently researches and tests IT management and security products. We assessed each MDM platform across device compatibility, remote management and troubleshooting capabilities, application management, policy enforcement, reporting and analytics, deployment options, and pricing models. We also analyzed customer feedback to validate vendor claims against real-world deployment experience. Read our full methodology

NinjaOne Dashboard
NinjaOne MDM Logo
NinjaOne

Best for organizations wanting mobile management inside their IT operations console

NinjaOne MDM is a mobile device management module that sits inside NinjaOne’s broader endpoint management platform. We think it works best for organizations that want mobile device management bundled with endpoint monitoring, patching, and backup in one console rather than running a standalone MDM tool. The platform manages Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS devices from a single interface.

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  • Single-console management for Windows endpoints, macOS devices, and mobile devices with consistent policies and reporting
  • Remote lock, wipe, and geolocation tracking are easy to configure
  • Conditional policies automate device management at scale with hundreds of out-of-the-box remediation scripts
  • Automated patching covers OS and third-party applications across all platforms
  • Integrates with Splashtop, TeamViewer, and ScreenConnect for full remote control including screen viewing

We think NinjaOne MDM makes the most sense for mid-sized organizations or MSPs that want mobile device management bundled with their broader IT operations. The per-device monthly pricing includes free unlimited onboarding and support, and the platform is highly intuitive with a modern interface. Full deployment typically takes two weeks to a month, with the agent deployed through Intune or Active Directory. Something to be aware of is that NinjaOne’s MDM capabilities sit inside a broader IT management platform, so if you only need dedicated MDM with deep mobile-specific features, a standalone MDM tool may be a better fit.

Strengths
Single console manages endpoints, mobile devices, servers, and VMs together
Remote lock, wipe, and geolocation tracking are easy to configure and deploy
Free unlimited onboarding and support reduces implementation friction
Cross-platform coverage handles Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS
Cautions
MDM capabilities are more limited than dedicated MDM platforms
No software configuration management
Jumpcloud Dashboard
JumpCloud MDM Logo
JumpCloud

Best for organizations using JumpCloud's identity and security tools

JumpCloud MDM allows IT and security teams to centrally monitor, manage, and secure all mobile devices in their fleet, whether personal or corporate-issued. The solution is compatible with Windows, Linux, macOS, and iOS devices, providing a unified overview of all connected devices in one location.

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  • Remote policy, command, and software deployment to individual devices or groups from the JumpCloud console
  • Device restriction capabilities prevent corporate-issued devices from accessing unauthorized services
  • Detailed device health reporting including encryption status, recovery key, device uptime, linked user accounts, and assigned policies
  • Cloud-based with fast deployment and high scalability
  • Seamless integration with JumpCloud’s user directory and identity security tools

We recommend JumpCloud MDM for mid-size and larger enterprises with a diverse device fleet that want MDM as part of a wider identity and device security stack. The detailed device health reporting and seamless integration with JumpCloud’s identity platform stand out.

Strengths
Unified overview of Windows, Linux, macOS, and iOS devices in one console
Remote policy, command, and software deployment to individual devices or groups
Detailed device health reporting including encryption status and assigned policies
Cloud-based with fast deployment and high scalability
Seamless integration with JumpCloud's identity and security platform
Cautions
Pricing not publicly available; requires contacting sales for a quote
3.

Cisco Meraki Systems Manager

Cisco Dashboard
Cisco Meraki Systems Manager Logo
Cisco

Best for large, distributed organizations already invested in Cisco infrastructure

In 2012, global IT provider Cisco acquired Meraki and has since offered cloud-managed wireless, switching, enterprise mobility management, and security tools under the Cisco Meraki brand. Systems Manager is a cloud-based endpoint management platform built for IT teams handling large device fleets across multiple sites. It supports all major operating systems, including iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, and ChromeOS. We think it works best for mid-to-large organizations already invested in Cisco infrastructure, particularly education and distributed enterprises.

  • Remote app deployment, OS updates, device wipe, screenshot, and reboot without touching hardware
  • Security configurations enforced consistently across 200+ sites through policy automation by location, user, and compliance status
  • Real-time reports into device health and risk from the Systems Manager dashboard
  • Native Duo integration for two-factor authentication across all mobile users

Customers running large device fleets report major time savings on routine management tasks. The dashboard gets consistent praise for its clean interface, which is easy to configure and navigate with little technical knowledge. Something to be aware of is that MDM certificate expiry requires ongoing attention, and the End-of-Sale announcement means the long-term roadmap is limited.

Meraki Systems Manager made the most sense for mid-to-large organizations already invested in Cisco infrastructure. However, with End-of-Sale now announced, new customers should evaluate migration options alongside any deployment. Existing customers should plan their transition timeline.

Strengths
Remote app deployment and OS updates eliminate physical device handling
Single dashboard manages 200+ sites with consistent visibility across locations
Native Duo integration simplifies two-factor authentication for Cisco environments
Policy automation handles enforcement by location, user, and compliance status
Cautions
End-of-Sale announced December 2025; last day to purchase is June 3, 2026
Customers note MDM certificate expiry requires ongoing attention
4.

Citrix Endpoint Management

Citrix Dashboard
Citrix Endpoint Management Logo
Cloud Software Group

Best for enterprises running Citrix Workspace with complex device fleets

Citrix is a technology company focused on enabling remote work and securing remote workers. Now part of Cloud Software Group, Citrix Endpoint Management is a unified endpoint management platform that handles devices, apps, and security policies across enterprise fleets. It is compatible with all major operating systems and integrates easily with existing tools and software, supporting both BYOD and corporate-issued devices. We think it makes the most sense for enterprises running Citrix Workspace with complex device fleets.

  • Unified dashboard covers mobile device management, software distribution, compliance monitoring, and security enforcement
  • Micro-VPN for secure per-app connections, data encryption, and remote lock and wipe
  • Over-the-air provisioning and active clustering simplify large-scale rollouts with self-service BYOD enrollment
  • Microsoft integration accelerates deployment for existing M365 environments
  • Containerization keeps corporate and personal data separate on BYOD devices

Customers in existing Citrix environments praise the natural integration with Citrix Workspace and the ease of managing all endpoints from a single platform. Real-time updates and responsive technical support get consistently positive marks. Users praise the ease with which they can set up and manage their devices. Something to be aware of is that containerised apps can confuse users juggling work and personal contexts, and mobile performance issues occasionally require device restarts and password re-entry.

We think Citrix Endpoint Management makes the most sense if you’re already running Citrix Workspace. Enterprises with complex device fleets and existing Citrix infrastructure will get the most value. Smaller teams or those without Citrix infrastructure should consider whether the platform commitment justifies the investment.

Strengths
Single console manages all device types without separate tools
Over-the-air provisioning and active clustering simplify large-scale rollouts
Micro-VPN and MFA enforcement built in natively
Microsoft integration accelerates deployment for existing M365 environments
Cautions
Reviews flag containerised apps confuse users juggling work and personal contexts
Users report mobile performance issues require device restarts and password re-entry
5.

Hexnode

Hexnode Dashboard
Hexnode Logo
Mitsogo

Best for mixed-OS and BYOD environments needing cross-platform policy enforcement

Hexnode, the enterprise software division of Mitsogo Inc., is a cybersecurity provider that specializes in unified endpoint management. Their platform enables IT and security teams to manage all devices, including laptops, desktops, tablets, phones, and TVs. From Hexnode’s central management console, admins can monitor all mobile devices connected to the corporate network, with support for Android, iOS, Fire OS, macOS, Windows, and tvOS. We were impressed by the cross-platform policy engine, which lets you write one policy and push it across device types without rebuilding rules for each OS.

  • Platform-agnostic policy engine covers six operating systems without per-platform rebuilds
  • Smart Kiosk mode locks devices to approved apps and secure browsing, isolating work and personal data on BYOD
  • In-built email security ensures corporate email is only accessible on approved devices
  • Audit logs and compliance reports configurable from the central console
  • Integrates with Active Directory, Google Workspace, and Microsoft 365 for streamlined enrollment

Customers consistently praise the onboarding experience. Getting devices enrolled and policies applied happens quickly, even across large fleets. Bulk policy application saves hours when managing hundreds of endpoints, and the reporting capabilities are highlighted as extensive and automatic. Something to be aware of is that advanced automation needs development for large enterprises, and post-purchase support engagement can decline compared to the trial period.

We think Hexnode works best for Apple-heavy or mixed environments where BYOD complexity is the main challenge. Healthcare organizations and enterprises with diverse device types will find the cross-platform policies valuable. The single policy engine covering six operating systems is a real time-saver for teams managing varied fleets.

Strengths
Single policy engine covers six operating systems without per-platform rebuilds
Smart Kiosk mode isolates work and personal data on BYOD devices
In-built email security ensures corporate email is only accessible on approved devices
Strong Apple DEP integration and Active Directory, Google Workspace, and M365 connectivity
Cautions
Users report advanced automation needs development for large enterprises
Customers note post-purchase support engagement can decline compared to trial period
6.

IBM MaaS360

IBM Dashboard
IBM MaaS360 Logo
IBM

Best for large enterprises managing diverse device fleets with AI-assisted policy management

IBM Security is a global provider of analytics, IT infrastructure, IT management, and software development solutions. MaaS360 is IBM’s AI-powered endpoint management platform, designed to help IT teams manage and secure mobile devices, applications, content, and data across their corporate network. It covers iOS, Android, ChromeOS, Windows, macOS, and rugged devices. We found the AI-assisted policy management to be the real differentiator here.

  • AI-assisted policy guidance summarizes what existing policies do and recommends improvements based on your security posture
  • Device and application usage monitoring with reports for usage, security, and compliance
  • Policy configuration for app deployment, content management, and data loss prevention
  • Mobile threat management detects and remediates malicious apps automatically
  • 24x7x365 support via chat, phone, and email

Customers praise the centralized dashboard for managing BYOD environments. The ease of enrolling new devices and distributing apps gets consistent positive feedback, and the range of security features draws praise across industries. Something to be aware of is that the interface complexity creates a steep learning curve for new admins, and advanced feature configuration requires significant time investment.

We think MaaS360 makes sense if you’re running a large, mixed-device environment and want AI-assisted policy management that reduces admin workload. The AI features pay off once you’re past initial configuration, but smaller teams should consider whether the complexity is justified for their fleet size.

Strengths
AI-assisted policy guidance summarizes configurations and recommends improvements
Single console manages iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and rugged devices
Mobile threat management detects and remediates malicious apps automatically
24x7x365 support via chat, phone, and email for teams at any technical level
Cautions
Reviews flag interface complexity creates a steep learning curve for new admins
Customers note advanced feature configuration requires significant time investment
7.

ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus

ManageEngine Dashboard
ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus Logo
ManageEngine

Best for enterprises needing broad device coverage with remote troubleshooting

ManageEngine is a division of Zoho Corporation that provides IT management software designed to help businesses optimize and integrate their IT processes. Mobile Device Manager Plus is ManageEngine’s MDM solution, which enables IT and security teams to manage smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktops, rugged devices, and IoT devices such as TVs. It targets mid-sized to large organizations and supports both cloud and on-prem deployment. We think the breadth of device coverage and the remote troubleshooting capabilities set it apart.

  • Full unattended remote access with screen viewing, chat, restart, wipe, and shutdown from a single console
  • App management with push, restrict, and remove capabilities with policy controls
  • Device enrollment and authentication with policies for 2FA, peripheral settings, and device sharing
  • Custom report creation with built-in report wizard including compliance and device health reporting
  • Free tier supports 25 devices with full functionality for evaluation

Users highlight the clean interface and remote control capabilities as standout strengths. The breadth of supported device types is consistently noted as a differentiator for mixed-OS environments. Something to be aware of is that Apple device management requires external tools for advanced compliance, and encryption and serial number reporting contains accuracy gaps.

We think ManageEngine MDM Plus fits enterprises managing large, mixed-OS device fleets that need control over apps, policies, and remote troubleshooting in one platform. Small businesses can start with the free tier and scale up as their fleet grows. Cloud and on-prem deployment options make it flexible for organizations with varying infrastructure requirements.

Strengths
Free tier supports 25 devices with full functionality for small team evaluation
Remote troubleshooting with full unattended access cuts resolution time significantly
Single console manages Android, Windows, iOS, macOS, ChromeOS, tvOS, and IoT devices
Kiosk Mode and VPN, SSO, and 2FA policy controls built in natively
Cautions
Users report Apple device management requires external tools for advanced compliance
Reviews mention encryption and serial number reporting contains accuracy gaps
8.

Microsoft Intune

Microsoft Entra Dashboard
Microsoft Intune Logo
Microsoft

Best for organizations already invested in Microsoft 365 and Entra ID

Microsoft Intune is a cloud-based unified endpoint management platform built for organizations already invested in the Microsoft stack. We think it is the natural fit if you’re running Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Entra ID, where Intune extends what you already have rather than adding another tool.

  • Tight integration with Conditional Access, Defender for Endpoint, and Purview
  • Autopilot enables zero-touch deployment with devices shipping pre-configured to end users
  • Configuration profiles support complex policy requirements across Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux
  • Bundled into Microsoft 365 licensing at $4 to $10 per user per month

Customers in Microsoft 365 environments praise the total cost of ownership and centralized management. Teams report meaningful time savings once workflows are established. Something to be aware of is that device sync speeds are slow when pushing time-sensitive policy changes, and reporting and inventory tools require significant customization to be useful.

We think Intune is the obvious choice if your organization already runs Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Entra ID. The native conditional access and compliance integration create a device management layer that works without adding third-party infrastructure. The bundled licensing keeps costs predictable.

Strengths
Autopilot enables true zero-touch deployment, reducing IT imaging workload significantly
Tight integration with Defender, Purview, and Conditional Access creates unified security
Configuration profiles support complex policy requirements across device types
Bundled into Microsoft 365 licensing at $4 to $10 per user per month
Cautions
Customers note device sync speeds are slow when pushing time-sensitive policy changes
Reviews flag reporting and inventory tools require significant customization to be useful
9.

Rippling

Rippling Dashboard
Rippling Logo
Rippling

Best for organizations wanting MDM that automatically responds to HR changes

Rippling combines HR, IT, and device management into a single platform where employee data drives everything. We were impressed by how employee context flows through the system; when someone changes roles, their device configuration, app access, and security policies update automatically.

  • Employee-aware automation updates device configuration, app access, and security policies automatically when roles change
  • Ships pre-configured devices directly to new hires in over 30 countries
  • Equal Apple and Windows support without one platform feeling bolted on
  • Pre-built SOC 2 and ISO 27001 templates work immediately without heavy customization

Users consistently praise the unified approach. Having HR, payroll, and device management share the same data source eliminates the sync issues that plague multi-tool setups. The pre-configured device logistics, including shipping to new hires in over 30 countries, gets positive marks for simplifying onboarding. Something to be aware of is that there is no Linux or server management support, and pricing can be complex with modular add-ons.

We think Rippling is well worth considering if you want device management that automatically responds to HR changes without manual IT work. The employee-aware automation is a real differentiator that most traditional MDM tools don’t offer.

Strengths
Employee role changes automatically trigger device, app, and policy updates
Ships pre-configured devices directly to new hires in over 30 countries
Equal Apple and Windows support without one platform feeling bolted on
Pre-built SOC 2 and ISO 27001 templates work immediately without heavy customization
Cautions
No Linux or server management support
Reviews mention pricing can be complex with modular add-ons
10.

Scalefusion

Scalefusion Dashboard
Scalefusion Logo
Scalefusion

Best for retail, education, and logistics teams managing mixed device fleets

Scalefusion is a unified endpoint management platform built for organizations managing mixed device fleets across Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux. The platform is compatible with smartphones, tablets, laptops, and rugged devices. We found it to be particularly strong for retail, education, and logistics teams where kiosk mode and fast device provisioning are critical.

  • Six enrollment methods including email, Android zero-touch, Apple DEP, URL-based, Google Workspace, and Microsoft 365
  • Kiosk mode locks devices to approved applications only for retail and education environments
  • Content management for pushing documents and files to devices
  • Remote casting and control for troubleshooting
  • Flexible, affordable pricing with free dedicated support and onboarding assistance

Users consistently highlight the speed of deployment. Teams managing thousands of devices report getting configurations pushed and devices production-ready in minutes. Retail operations report that app restrictions have reduced misuse significantly. Users praise the clean interface and flexibility in terms of customizations. Something to be aware of is that dashboard navigation can feel cluttered with multiple device profiles, and advanced security configurations require additional setup time.

We think Scalefusion fits well if you’re managing diverse device types across locations and need quick rollout with solid security controls. It is especially worth evaluating for education and retail use cases where kiosk mode and fast provisioning deliver immediate value.

Strengths
Six enrolment methods including zero-touch get devices configured and production-ready in minutes
Kiosk mode effectively locks devices to approved applications only
Supports Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux from a single console
Apple School Manager integration handles student device restrictions cleanly
Cautions
Customers note dashboard navigation can feel cluttered with multiple device profiles
Reviews mention advanced security configurations require additional setup time

Other Mobile Device Management (MDM) Services

We researched lots of mobile device management solutions while we were making this guide. Here are a few other tools that are worth your consideration:

11
Ivanti Neurons for MDM

Creates a complete inventory of your mobile devices and enables you to create profiles and enforce security policies.

12
Miradore

Effective Android, Apple, and Windows device management in a single platform.

Mobile Device Management (MDM) Pricing

MDM pricing models vary across the market. Some platforms charge per device, others per user, and several bundle MDM into broader IT management or identity platforms. The table below reflects what we were able to verify through research.

Product Starting Price Billing Link
NinjaOne MDM
Contact for quote (add-on to NinjaOne platform)
Monthly per device
JumpCloud MDM
From $9/user/month (Device Management tier)
Monthly or annual
Cisco Meraki Systems Manager
From ~$40/device/year
Annual
Citrix Endpoint Management
From $2/user/month
Monthly or annual
Hexnode
From $1/device/month (Express)
Annual
IBM MaaS360
From $4/device/month (Essentials)
Annual
ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus
Free (up to 25 devices); paid plans on quote
Annual
Microsoft Intune
From $8/user/month (Plan 1); bundled in M365
Monthly or annual
Rippling
From ~$8/user/month (Device Management)
Monthly
Scalefusion
From $2/device/month (Essentials)
Annual

Mobile Device Management (MDM) Checklist

These are the configuration and operational steps we recommend when deploying a mobile device management platform.

Not every MDM supports every OS version or device type; knowing your fleet composition prevents compatibility gaps after deployment.

Apple DEP, Android zero-touch, and Windows Autopilot let devices ship pre-configured directly to employees, which removes IT imaging bottlenecks.

BYOD devices need containerization to protect corporate data without overreaching into personal use, which is a different policy model than fully managed corporate devices.

Non-compliant devices accessing corporate resources are a security risk; automated compliance checks flag and remediate issues before they become incidents.

Tying device compliance to access decisions (via Entra ID, Okta, or similar) means non-compliant devices are blocked from corporate resources automatically.

Manual app management doesn't scale; automated app lifecycle management keeps devices current without end-user or admin intervention.

The first time you wipe a lost device shouldn't be during an actual security incident; testing confirms the process works and your team knows the steps.

Restricting shared devices to approved apps prevents misuse and simplifies the user experience for frontline workers who need a single application.

Dashboards that update automatically give IT teams visibility into fleet status without running manual reports, and support audit requests with ready data.

Remote hiring, international expansion, and BYOD adoption shift which enrollment methods your team needs; the method that worked for a co-located team may not work for a distributed one.

The Bottom Line

The MDM market now extends well beyond simple device tracking. Modern platforms combine endpoint management, identity integration, AI-assisted policy management, and automated enrollment into unified consoles. The right choice depends on your existing infrastructure and the complexity of your device fleet.

Organizations already invested in Microsoft, Cisco, or Citrix platforms will find the most value in solutions that extend those investments. Teams managing diverse, mixed-OS fleets should prioritize cross-platform policy engines, while those with BYOD challenges should evaluate containerisation and kiosk mode capabilities.

For smaller teams, free tiers and per-technician pricing models provide accessible entry points.

Everything You Need To Know About Mobile Device Management (FAQs)

Device management is the process of monitoring, managing, and securing the mobile devices connected to your company’s network, including both personal and corporate-issued devices.

Device management solutions give you a unified view of all the mobile devices within your company’s network. Usually, you have to install the Mobile Device Management agent on all mobile devices—the best MDM solutions offer an option for remote users to install this agent themselves. Once the agent is installed, the MDM solution can monitor the device’s health and security posture.

With an MDM solution, you can also define policies for device configuration, manage the applications installed on a device, and remotely troubleshoot any issues that a user is having with their device—all from a single, centralized management console.

Mobile devices are a lucrative target for cybercriminals and can also be an easy target when not properly secured.

  • Without multi-factor authentication, an attacker could steal their victim’s phone and sign into their corporate accounts.
  • Without strong endpoint protection, such as antivirus and antimalware software, an attacker could install malware on a user’s device undetected.
  • Without a secure remote access solution, such as a VPNor zero trust network access (ZTNA), an attacker could tap into a user’s unsecured Wi-Fi connection and spy on all their connections to the company network.

Mobile Device Management solutions give you comprehensive visibility of all the mobile devices connected to the company network and enable you to remotely manage and secure those devices, to protect them from these types of threat.

Mobile Device Management also allows you to monitor device health such as checking for updates. This not only helps prevent the exploitation of software and operating system vulnerabilities but also ensures that each device is running optimally, which boosts productivity. After all, nobody wants to wait for 10 minutes after they’ve turned on their tablet just to be able to load up their inbox. 

All Mobile Device Management software solutions offer slightly different feature sets to meet specific use cases, but there are some features that you should look out for in any Mobile Device Management solution. These are:

  1. Device compatibility: Your Mobile Device Management software solution must be compatible with all the device types in your business and offer patching and updates for all the operating systems those devices are running.
  2. Remote monitoring and troubleshooting: You should be able to remotely troubleshoot user devices via a centralized management console, without having to visit users in person.
  3. Application management: You should be able to define which applications can be installed on user devices, as well as update those apps. This could be via an app store experience, remote software distribution, or a containerized “work mode” that keeps personal and work apps separate.
  4. Reporting and analytics: You should be able to generate and export reports into device posture including usage, compliance, patch status, and the presence of unauthorized apps.

There are three main types of endpoint management solution on the market: Mobile Device Management (MDM), Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM), and Unified Endpoint Management (UEM). While they do overlap somewhat in terms of functionality, there are some key differences you should know about before you decide which one to invest in.

  • MDM solutions enable you to monitor, manage, and configure policies for all the mobile devices connected to your network. However, MDM software doesn’t allow you to manage on-prem devices, such as desktops. This means MDM is best suited to organizations with a high percentage of remote workers, or which don’t have a physical office with permanent workstations.
  • EMM solutions use containers to secure the apps and data on a mobile device, enabling employees to switch easily between work and personal activities on one device. This is useful for businesses with lots of BYOD devices. However, while EMM was designed as an evolution of MDM, most modernMDM solutions also offer this app management functionality.
  • UEM solutions enable you teams to monitor, manage, and secure all of the devices connected to your corporate network—both mobile and on-site—via one interface. Because of this, UEM is a strong solution for businesses using a combination of mobile devices, desktop PCs, and IoT devices.

IT Management Resources

Further reading on it management from Expert Insights — buyers' guides, comparison articles, and platform-specific shortlists.

Written By Written By
Caitlin Harris
Caitlin Harris Deputy Head Of Content

Caitlin Harris is the Deputy Head of Content at Expert Insights. As an experienced content writer and editor, Caitlin helps cybersecurity leaders to cut through the noise in the cybersecurity space with expert analysis and insightful recommendations.

Prior to Expert Insights, Caitlin worked at QA Ltd, where she produced award-winning technical training materials, and she has also produced journalistic content over the course of her career.

Caitlin has 8 years of experience in the cybersecurity and technology space, helping technical teams, CISOs, and security professionals find clarity on complex, mission critical topics like security awareness training, backup and recovery, and endpoint protection.

Caitlin also hosts the Expert Insights Podcast and co-writes the weekly newsletter, Decrypted.

Technical Review Technical Review
Laura Iannini
Laura Iannini Cybersecurity Analyst

Laura Iannini is a Cybersecurity Analyst at Expert Insights. With deep cybersecurity knowledge and strong research skills, she leads Expert Insights’ product testing team, conducting thorough tests of product features and in-depth industry analysis to ensure that Expert Insights’ product reviews are definitive and insightful.

Laura also carries out wider analysis of vendor landscapes and industry trends to inform Expert Insights’ enterprise cybersecurity buyers’ guides, covering topics such as security awareness training, cloud backup and recovery, email security, and network monitoring. Prior to working at Expert Insights, Laura worked as a Senior Information Security Engineer at Constant Edge, where she tested cybersecurity solutions, carried out product demos, and provided high-quality ongoing technical support.

Laura holds a Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity from the University of West Florida.