What is Managed Mobile Device Services?
What is MDM?
Managed Mobile Device Services is a summary of mobile device management and refers to end-to-end application management of phones, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, as part of the comprehensive enterprise mobility management (EMM) system. It is a way of managing the entire life cycle of a mobile phone.
Phone Device Manager is implemented through MDM software with management functions suitable for one or more operating systems. With MDM software, companies can monitor, manage and protect their mobile phones to ensure device performance and performance.
How does MDM work?
Mobile application software that runs in the cloud or in the cloud. Through the MDM management system, IT administrators can configure and manage remote devices. But before that, you need to register the device with the MDM software, or in other words, the MDM server. This can be done through the subscription programs provided by Apple, Google, Samsung and Microsoft, or by adding the device to the signature, QR or NFC code, or by email / SMS.
IT administrators can use the content management system to manage mobile devices and applications over the air (OTA). Speaking of technology, an MDM server (software) sends a command line that is installed on the device through an application programming interface (API) that is installed on the operating system.
Advantages of using MDM software
- Control of all corporate mobile devices
When using a wide range of devices and operating systems, it can be difficult to control and establish unified device management processes. With MDM, organizations have better visibility of their devices as the software extracts valuable data from managed devices. IT teams know what devices are being used and what level of security they have, and organizations can manage security risks more easily.
MDM also provides full control over device usage and device lifecycle. IT administrators can remotely configure devices and manage device updates and replacements in a timely manner. And when an employee leaves the company, all business-related information can be removed from the device and the device can be assigned to a new employee.
- Security of data and devices
Unmanaged mobile devices carry various cybersecurity risks. While computers and laptops often have protection against pre-installed malware, tablets and mobile phones are more vulnerable to cyber attacks. MDM provides an effective way to protect devices and data and comply with existing data protection regulations, such as GDPR, HIPAA, ELD and CJIS.
Device data and security can be verified by various configurations and limited options. The use of certain devices or programs may be prohibited and the use of fixed numbers may be mandatory on the device. And if the same device is used for work and leisure, the user's personal data can be classified by work data with safe containers. With these containers stored, companies can ensure that confidential data does not leak to third parties, for example, instant messaging programs.
- Increased productivity and reduced costs
With MDM, organizations can efficiently manage each step of device management through a single automated platform for registering and configuring devices, which helps save time and ultimately money.
Especially if you are managing multiple devices, automation can bring significant benefits: human errors are reduced and devices can be set up quickly in up to 30 minutes. For small and medium-sized organizations, MDM offers a great way to
protect devices without significant investment or the need to hire an IT specialist. MDM also facilitates the approval of BYOD / CYOD policies.
In addition, MDM helps increase employee productivity when end users don't waste time creating their own devices or visiting the IT department. Instead, they get preconfigured tools and access to the data and applications needed on the first day.
Key MDM features
Supported features and operating systems vary greatly between MDM devices. In general, you can view your device registry, secure devices and data, manage applications and configurations, apply custom device policies, and update software remotely. Some solutions even provide identity, accessibility, and cost control.
When choosing MDM software, it’s a good idea to compare different options to make sure it’s right for your organization’s needs. Here's an overview of the seven most common MDM capabilities:
Dashboard
MDM software collects a variety of hardware and software information on devices, helping companies track and keep track of company-owned devices and BYOD. For example, you can view feature information, installed configuration and applications, warranty and security status, and custom location.
Restrictions and configuration
One of the most important benefits of MDM is the ability to configure devices remotely. With different configuration and blockchain possibilities, organizations can ensure data security and compliance, and provide employees with the tools they need. MDM allows you to configure all appropriate settings (eg VPN, Wi-Fi) on devices and set restrictions on device usage (eg single kiosk mode).
Application and content management
To be productive, employees must have easy access to proper file and use. With MDM, companies can control content in the middle of mobile and keep apps up-to-date. Apps may also be listed / listed or removed from the device.
Device security and data
Several security measures can be taken to protect the device and the sensitive data it contains. MDM enables a company, for example, to implement disk encryption and the use of strong passwords and create secure entities that separate company data from personal data. And if the device is lost, it can be monitored and deleted remotely.
Implementation Policy
Integrated logistics policies help the company to integrate equipment management and ultimately increase efficiency and compliance with current regulations. With different policies, companies can decide in advance what settings, restrictions and applications should be installed on the devices and submit these policies to the hardware group.