Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions have become an essential component in today's digital landscape. With the proliferation of mobile devices in both personal and professional spaces, organizations require robust tools to manage and secure these devices effectively. In this article, we will explore the top 10 MDM solutions that offer a comprehensive range of features to meet the diverse needs of businesses. From device enrollment and security to app management and remote troubleshooting, these solutions are at the forefront of MDM technology.
Table of contents:
Points to consider when choosing Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions:
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Security features
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Platform support (iOS, Android, Windows, macOS)
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Deployment options (cloud-based or on-premises)
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User-friendly interface
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Application management
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Compliance and policy enforcement
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Remote management capabilities
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Reporting and analytics
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Integration capabilities
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Scalability
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Cost and licensing
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User experience
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Support and updates
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Geofencing and location tracking
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Containerization and BYOD support
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User authentication methods
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Data backup and recovery
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Vendor reputation
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Compliance with privacy regulations
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Training and documentation
1. Hexnode
Hexnode, the enterprise software division of Mitsogo Inc., is a cybersecurity provider that specializes in mobile device management (MDM) solutions. Their eponymous platform enables IT and security teams to manage all devices, including mobile and IoT devices, across their network, including the apps, content, and identities associated with those devices, via a single, unified platform.
From Hexnode's central management console, admins can monitor all mobile devices connected to the corporate network, with support for Android, iOS, Fire OS, and Windows PC operating systems. Admins can configure platform-agnostic policies, deploy apps, view reports into device health and compliance, and remotely troubleshoot security issues using MDM features. Troubleshooting options include encryption, remote lock and wipe, automatic lockdown, and screen monitoring. Hexnode also offers an in-built email security tool, ensuring that corporate emails are only opened on approved devices, helping mitigate the spread of account compromise. Hexnode is particularly strong in terms of securing BYOD device fleets: in Smart Kiosk mode, a secure container isolates users' personal and work data, turning mobile devices into purpose-built kiosks to allow secure access to certain apps and enable secure browsing. With this setting enabled, admins can remotely configure peripheral settings and view the device's screen in real-time through MDM functionalities.
Hexnode is relatively easy to deploy thanks to its integrations with Active Directory, Google Workspace, and Microsoft 365, streamlining the MDM setup process. Users praise the platform for its extensive and automatic reporting capabilities, as well as the level of support provided by the Hexnode team, product documentation, and community forums. We recommend Hexnode as a robust MDM solution for any business wanting better visibility into their mobile devices, especially those with a significant number of BYOD devices.
2. IBM Security MaaS360 with Watson
IBM Security is a global provider of mobile device management (MDM) solutions, analytics, IT infrastructure, IT management, and software development. MaaS360 with Watson is IBM's AI-driven endpoint management solution, tailored to assist IT teams in managing and securing Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac devices, including IoT devices, and overseeing the apps and content on these devices.
MaaS360 with Watson empowers IT and security teams to monitor device and application usage across their network and generate reports on these aspects, as well as device security and compliance, enhancing MDM capabilities. Administrators can configure security controls, such as single sign-on (SSO) and app-level tunnelling, to facilitate secure, remote access to business applications and reduce the risk of identity-related breaches in case of a lost or stolen device. These policies can be applied to both corporate-issued and BYOD devices. Furthermore, administrators can set additional security measures for BYOD or personal devices, such as data storage restrictions and the creation of corporate personas and containers. The platform's Mobile Threat Management feature identifies and remediates malicious and suspicious apps before they can compromise the device and network. IBM's Watson Advisor, utilizing AI-driven analytics, provides insights into mobile device risks, aiding businesses in efficiently identifying, triaging, and resolving incidents.
Users commend MaaS360 with Watson for its user-friendly device enrollment and app distribution processes and the extensive range of security features it offers in the realm of MDM solutions. IBM also provides round-the-clock support via chat, phone, and email, catering to IT and security personnel with varying levels of technical knowledge, ensuring that users can maximize the platform's capabilities. Although MaaS360 with Watson caters to both SMB and enterprise needs, offering adaptable per-user pricing, scalability, and seamless integrations with existing infrastructure, we recommend the platform particularly for small- to mid-sized businesses.
3. CPDEVICE
CPDEVICE’s MDM platform offers a revolutionary approach to mobile device management (MDM) solutions with its advanced remote operations technology and services. This secure and customizable platform is designed to optimize device management for the next generation of human-computer interaction and is fully compatible with on-board computers. With fast communication speeds and powerful remote control capabilities, CPDEVICE's MDM platform simplifies device management, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and productivity.
This platform allows users to easily access information and check the status of any device activated within the system. Users can also access the live desktop of devices and take control when needed, leading to improved work efficiency and quality, all while eliminating the need for repetitive tasks.
One of the standout features is the platform's ability to enable technicians to perform remote testing and service when equipment malfunctions, reducing the necessity of sending them directly to the site. This not only lowers operating costs but also enhances the quality of service provided, resulting in higher customer satisfaction.
The platform offers easy access to visual data through a homepage dashboard, allowing users to gain insights into the real-time operating status of all their equipment. It also provides information on all administrative accounts and the ability to edit their permissions based on their respective roles.
4. ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus
ManageEngine is a division of Zoho Corporation that specializes in mobile device management (MDM) solutions and provides IT management software designed to help businesses streamline and integrate their IT processes. Mobile Device Manager Plus is ManageEngine's robust MDM solution, offering comprehensive device, app, and security management, along with containerization, to cater to various device types. This includes smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktops, rugged devices, and even IoT devices like TVs. Mobile Device Manager Plus is compatible with a wide array of operating systems, including Android, iOS, tvOS, macOS, Windows, and Chrome OS, and all of these can be centrally managed through a unified interface.
From the admin console, IT and security teams can seamlessly enroll and authenticate mobile devices, configure policies for two-factor authentication (2FA), manage peripheral device settings, and control device sharing. Admins can create custom reports with an intuitive drag-and-drop report creator and schedule automatic report generation in formats such as PDF, CSV, and XLS. The platform also offers a range of troubleshooting options, including a chat function, remote screen viewing, remote scan, restart, wipe, shut down functions, and full unattended remote access. Mobile Device Manager Plus excels in app management, allowing admins to efficiently distribute and manage apps across various device types and operating systems, create profiles to segregate work and personal apps, and activate Kiosk Mode, limiting device functionality to authorized enterprise apps. Moreover, the platform includes additional security features like role-based access controls, single sign-on, data encryption, VPN capabilities, and the ability to restrict third-party backups.
ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus provides flexible pricing plans and offers both cloud and on-premises deployment options. Users appreciate the platform's user-friendly interface and its powerful remote control capabilities for efficient troubleshooting. We recommend Mobile Device Manager Plus as a robust MDM solution tailored for small- to mid-sized organizations with diverse device types, seeking an intuitive MDM solution enriched with built-in security features.
5. Miradore
Miradore is a mobile device management (MDM) platform explicitly designed to cater to the needs of SMBs. Through a simple and intuitive interface, IT and security teams can efficiently manage and secure both personal and corporate-owned devices. The platform extends support to Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows operating systems, ensuring versatile MDM capabilities within one unified solution.
Miradore doesn't just provide device management but also offers valuable analytics and reporting tools that empower small businesses to gain comprehensive insights into the health and security of their mobile device fleets. Additionally, the platform incorporates several security features to safeguard corporate data in the event of a device falling into unauthorized hands.
Miradore excels in application management, allowing administrators to create block and allow lists to ensure that users only run secure and approved apps. Apps can be deployed and removed remotely. The platform supports the setup of devices in Kiosk Mode, providing a clear separation between personal and work apps, thus ensuring privacy and security, especially on BYOD devices. Furthermore, Miradore provides data encryption, screen lock enforcement, and passcode enforcement to protect company data in case of device loss or theft. Admins can also restrict the use of specific device features, such as the camera or platform-specific app stores. The management console offers access to various reports on device and OS usage, device health, and security, including details on devices with encryption and passcodes enabled. The platform offers both pre-built reports and a custom report builder.
Miradore's quick and straightforward deployment process, along with its flexible plans and pricing options, makes it suitable for businesses of varying budget constraints. Users particularly appreciate Miradore for its ease of use, both during deployment and ongoing management. We recommend Miradore as a strong MDM solution for SMBs seeking robust app management functionality without the need for extensive security features offered by some other contenders on this list. It's also a valuable option for managed service providers (MSPs) looking for a multi-platform MDM solution to offer their SMB clients.
6. VMWare Workspace ONE
VMware is a prominent software and security provider specializing in software solutions that facilitate and empower digital workplaces. Workspace ONE, formerly known as AirWatch, is VMware's comprehensive digital workspace solution. It is specifically engineered to assist IT and security teams in efficiently managing endpoints while ensuring end-to-end security throughout their data centers. Workspace ONE boasts compatibility with both corporate-owned and BYOD devices, regardless of platform or operating system, offering unified management capabilities through a single console.
From the centralized console, administrators can oversee all mobile devices connected to their network, including policy configuration, patch deployment, and app provisioning and deployment, making it a robust addition to mobile device management (MDM) solutions. Workspace ONE offers a suite of secure productivity applications, including email, notes, tasks, and a corporate intranet, all accessible to end users through a single location and interface. This approach reduces the risk of running unmanaged and potentially malicious apps while ensuring consistent management policies across various app types. Access to applications is restricted to devices compliant with admin-defined policies, enforcing risk-based authentication methods to grant or deny access or request multi-factor authentication (MFA). Administrators receive automatic notifications of high-risk login attempts, with options for automatic remediation and alerting. Additionally, administrators have access to detailed reports on device, app, and user data, enhancing visibility and security while improving the user experience within the workspace.
Workspace ONE offers deployment options, including on-premises or as a Software as a Service (SaaS) solution, or even as a hybrid combination of both. It integrates seamlessly with identity and access management tools, endpoint security tools, and IT operations and service management tools, simplifying deployment while providing comprehensive visibility across all mobile devices. Users commend Workspace ONE for its user-friendly interface and its extensive support for a wide range of devices and operating systems. In conclusion, we recommend Workspace ONE as a robust MDM solution ideally suited for larger enterprises with diverse mobile device fleets.
7. Citrix Endpoint Management
Citrix is a technology company dedicated to facilitating remote work and securing remote workers. Its cloud-based workspace platform offers users secure and reliable access to corporate resources from any location, ensuring access whenever needed. Citrix Endpoint Management (CEM) is Citrix's comprehensive endpoint management solution, providing a unified platform for IT and security teams to efficiently manage all the devices and applications within their network. CEM places a particular emphasis on enabling remote productivity without compromising security or overburdening IT teams.
Citrix Endpoint Management is highly versatile, compatible with all major operating systems, and seamlessly integrates with existing tools and software. This flexibility enables support for both Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) and corporate-issued devices. Users can access all their applications and files through a single context-aware interface, simplifying navigation from both end-user and administrative perspectives. From the management console, administrators can efficiently oversee all mobile devices, configure automation for software distribution and updates, and ensure devices are protected against vulnerabilities associated with outdated software and operating systems. Admins can also define role-based access policies for users and user groups, access reports on device health and compliance, and enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA). To enhance security, the solution employs data encryption and a micro-VPN. Additionally, administrators can manage the apps installed on users' devices through Citrix's enterprise app store, including app deployment and removal.
Citrix Endpoint Management is easy to deploy, offering over-the-air provisioning and self-service enrollment options. Its implementation of active clustering ensures scalability. Users appreciate CEM for its user-friendly platform for managing all endpoints, real-time updates, and the support provided by Citrix's technical team. However, some users have noted potential performance issues when integrating CEM with multiple other security tools. In conclusion, we recommend Citrix Endpoint Management as a robust solution for enterprises seeking a unified platform for managing all the endpoints connected to their network, making it an effective addition to mobile device management (MDM) solutions.
8. Cisco Meraki Systems Manager
In 2012, the global IT provider Cisco acquired Meraki and subsequently offered a suite of cloud-managed tools for wireless, switching, enterprise mobility management (EMM), and security under the Cisco Meraki brand. Among these offerings, Systems Manager is Cisco Meraki's comprehensive endpoint management solution. It is designed to simplify the tasks of monitoring, managing, and securing all endpoints, including mobile devices and apps, across a network. Cisco Meraki has established partnerships with Apple, Google, and Microsoft to create their mobile device management (MDM) product, providing extensive support for iOS, MacOS, Android, Chrome OS, and Windows operating systems.
From the Systems Manager dashboard, administrators have access to real-time reports on device health and potential risks. They can also troubleshoot issues remotely using actions such as device wipe, screenshot capture, and reboot, in addition to gaining remote desktop access. The platform offers versatile enrollment options to accommodate various device types, all managed through a unified dashboard. Once enrolled, security configurations are automatically deployed onto devices from the Meraki cloud in accordance with administrator-defined policies. This minimizes the resources required for manual provisioning. Customizable policies cover device restrictions and permissions, encryption, privacy settings, Wi-Fi and VPN configurations, and managed app settings. Administrators can configure automatic distribution based on OS type, security compliance, geolocation, time of day, and user group. The platform also provides app management features with deny and allow lists, access permissions, and containerization, enabling the establishment of separate work and personal profiles via integration with Android Enterprise.
Furthermore, administrators can enhance security by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) for all mobile users through a native integration with Duo, Cisco's 2FA tool. This measure ensures that threat actors cannot access company data stored in mobile apps, even if they acquire a user's device and password. Users commend Systems Manager for its intuitive interface, which is easy to configure and navigate with minimal technical knowledge. We recommend Cisco Meraki Systems Manager as a robust MDM solution suitable for mid- to large enterprises that prioritize granular policy configuration and strong automation capabilities. This recommendation is especially relevant for organizations already utilizing Cisco for identity management and remote access, further solidifying its position among MDM solutions.
9. Scalefusion
Scalefusion is a mobile device and endpoint management tool that prioritizes ease of use without compromising security. The Scalefusion platform is highly versatile, offering compatibility with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and rugged devices. It extends support to multiple operating systems, covering Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux.
Scalefusion provides a comprehensive array of enrollment options for new devices, ranging from email-based methods to integrations with Android Zero-touch, Apple DEP, Google Workspace, Office 365, and more. This flexibility allows administrators to seamlessly connect and configure devices, irrespective of their existing infrastructure, all achieved remotely. Within the management console, administrators have the tools to oversee the platform's extensive security features. These include role-based access controls, password policy configuration, Wi-Fi settings management, website block/allow lists, factory reset protection, screen capture blocking, and data sharing restrictions.
Administrators can access a variety of reports, covering device health, security incidents, compliance violations, and administrator activity logs. The Remote Cast & Control feature empowers admins to mirror device screens and troubleshoot issues remotely. Additionally, administrators can publish, install, update, and remove apps on devices without requiring end-user intervention, ensuring that only approved, secure apps are running on all devices.
Scalefusion is known for its quick deployment and user-friendly management capabilities, with users commending its intuitive interface and flexibility for customizations. The platform's flexible and cost-effective pricing plans, combined with free dedicated support and training services, make it a strong MDM solution suitable for businesses of all sizes seeking to secure and manage a diverse mobile device fleet. Furthermore, Scalefusion's integration with Apple School Manager positions it as an excellent choice for educational institutions aiming to manage and secure iPads used by students and staff. This recommendation underscores its position among MDM solutions.
10. Kandji
Kandji is a mobile device management and security platform designed specifically for Apple devices, including macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and tvOS. Kandji’s Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution enables IT and security teams to identify, manage, and secure the Apple devices connected to their network, making it a significant addition to mobile device management (MDM) solutions. The platform’s capabilities can be broken down into four main categories: Devices, Apps, Controls, and Identity & Compliance, all of which can be managed via an intuitive, centralized admin console.
Kandji MDM is a cloud-based solution that enables admins to onboard and configure new devices remotely. Admins can categorize devices into “Blueprints” according to team, department, and location, and Kandji automatically implements the right conditional application and security controls, automations, and apps to that device, according to its categorization. Kandji provides maximum visibility to admins on their entire Apple device fleet, with detailed records on device updates and key remediations performed on each device. Kandji’s Auto Apps feature provides automated macOS patch management that pre-packages, hosts, and automatically patches apps with fully customizable enforcement rule settings. Admins can also deploy app store apps and custom apps, as well as block unauthorized apps across the entire device fleet.
Kandji has an extensive library of macOS security controls, where admins can access and implement over 150 pre-built automations in a single click. Admins can also create custom scripts for specific device control needs. Kandji offers advanced tools that support Identity & Compliance, where admins can leverage pre-built compliance templates for regulations such as CIS and FedRAMP. Once toggled on, Kandji automatically identifies and remediates compliance issues, even when devices are offline. Finally, Kandji supports single sign-on, which allows admins to configure SSO and assign users an identity Passport, which enables them to leverage their SSO credentials within a login experience that feels native to Mac.
Kandji has placed a strong emphasis on usability when developing their Mobile Device Management product. The solution is easy to deploy and easy to manage, via its highly intuitive and navigable admin interface. Organizations can also choose to deploy Kandji MDM alongside Kandji’s Endpoint Detection & Response solution for integrated mobile device management and security. Overall, we recommend Kandji Device Management for any-sized organization looking to better manage and secure their Apple endpoints remotely.
Conclusion:
As the reliance on mobile devices continues to grow, the importance of efficient Mobile Device Management solutions cannot be overstated. The top 10 MDM solutions discussed in this article are at the forefront of this technology, providing organizations with the tools they need to manage, secure, and optimize their mobile device fleets.
If you are looking for a reliable MDM solution company, CPDEVICE can provide it for you. We focus on precision agriculture, construction machinery, smart transportation and other industry applications, and have accumulated rich experience in these fields. Please feel free to contact us at any time!
