Do Companies Still Need Mobile Device Management (MDM)?

With the advent of new technologies and the growing importance of mobile devices, businesses today are treading uncharted seas. Smartphones and other portable electronic devices are now indispensable aids, allowing constant, instantaneous communication inside and outside the office.

However, with increased mobility comes increased accountability, particularly when protecting confidential business information and adhering to privacy laws.

Here's where mobile device management (MDM) saves the day for current corporate procedures. Exploring the continuous relevance and necessary role of MDM in contemporary business environments is crucial as we stand at the crossroads of mobility and productivity.

In this post, we'll explore why mobile device management (MDM) continues to be so crucial to businesses' IT strategies despite the dynamic nature of the mobile industry. Regardless of size or industry, all businesses still need Mobile Device Management in today's fast-paced world.

Join us as we explore the many reasons why. The challenges of distant employment, the proliferation of new mobile platforms, and personal data concerns will be addressed. Let's delve in and find out why MDM is more important than ever in today's corporate settings.

So, What Exactly Is Mobile Device Management?

Smartphones, tablets, and other endpoints can be managed, protected, and subject to policy enforcement using mobile device management (MDM) software.

Tools like enterprise file sync and share, identity and access management, and mobile application management (MAM) are all examples of such platforms. Mobile device management (MDM) aims to safeguard corporate networks while maximising mobile devices' potential.

Today's enterprise mobility solutions are compatible with various devices, from Apple and Google's iOS and Android mobile platforms to Microsoft and Apple's macOS and even a few Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

How Mobile Device Management (MDM) Systems Function

MDM relies mainly on two mechanisms to control the mobile devices in your organisation:

The MDM Server- The MDM service is likely hosted in the cloud or a data centre. 

The MDM Agent - The mobile device has the MDM agent installed.  

Policies for mobile device security are changed in the MDM Server Management panel and then pushed to the MDM agent when necessary by the IT department. The MDM server-agent connection also allows IT departments to update and install software on controlled devices.

Handling Android-Based Mobile Devices

Android MDM uses the Android OS's built-in tools and APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) to manage and administer Android mobile devices centrally. It allows uniform management across your Android estate by allowing support teams to remotely modify settings, manage app deployments, and enforce security standards.

Management of Apple Mobile Devices 

The iPad, iPhone, and Mac can all be managed and controlled through Apple's Mobile Device Management (MDM) system. Companies can manage and customise their Apple device fleet securely thanks to Apple's capabilities and APIs. You may use it to monitor and manage your iOS and macOS gadgets.

In What Ways May Businesses Benefit From Mobile Device Management (MDM)?

How often do you check your work email when you're on the go? Do you frequently make use of business apps on your mobile device? 

You are not alone if you engage in any of these behaviours. Consumers increasingly turn away from laptops and desktop computers in favour of smartphones and tablets when they're away from the office. However, security for mobile devices has not kept pace with this evolution.

Businesses are more vulnerable to cyber attacks like ransomware and data breaches if employees use insecure mobile devices. For this reason, a mobile device management (MDM) solution should be set up, such as Microsoft Intune (included in Microsoft 365 Business Premium).

Companies can monitor the safety and well-being of all employee devices with the help of mobile device management software. Here are a few of the main advantages:

• Possibility to track which devices are accessing company resources
• Access can be granted or revoked remotely.
• Capacity to prevent unauthorised unauthorised devices from gaining access to your system
• Distributed operating system and software updates, as well as security fixes, from afar
• Keep tabs on what devices are accessing company data and how often
• Protect your data by locking or wiping your device remotely
• Control and keep tabs on all of your staff's mobile devices
• Employee-owned phones should have both their "business" and "personal" data secured.
• A mobile device management application is essential for several reasons, some of which are outlined below.

To Strengthen Online Safety

The primary goal of mobile device management is to prevent network intrusions caused by lost or stolen mobile devices. Allowing employee devices access to the network without monitoring leaves the company vulnerable to ransomware, malware, and even insider intrusions.

By 2020, 97% of businesses had suffered a cyberattack from a mobile device, and nearly half (46%) of those had discovered that an employee had downloaded malicious software unintentionally.

About 80% Of All Office Work Is Now Done on Mobile Devices

Mobile devices have gradually taken over around 80% of the work once done on desktop computers in an office setting. When a corporation hears that a piece of software doesn't come with a mobile app, it's unlikely that they'll give it a second thought.

In addition, a growing number of people in the workforce check their email on their phones rather than their computers at the office.

Concerns have been expressed concerning the safety and administration of employees' mobile devices' connections to corporate systems as their use has increased. 

To Facilitate BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Initiatives

In many workplaces, employees are expected to bring their own mobile devices to work. The overall business cost is reduced since fewer mobile devices and subscriptions are required. Carrying two smartphones all day is inconvenient for many workers who would instead be reimbursed for business use of their devices.

However, without mobile device management for your BYOD programme, you may not have visibility into whose personal devices are accessing and storing sensitive company data or the ability to ensure their security.

A mobile device manager makes it easier for workers to utilise their mobile devices for work while keeping sensitive company information and app usage private.

Threats From Mobile Malware Are Increasing

Attacks on mobile devices, such as viruses and phishing scams, have expanded along with their popularity.

In the first half of 2021, workers experienced a 161% rise in mobile phishing attacks. Moreover, approximately 300 exploitable vulnerabilities were present in obsolete OS versions, leaving 56% of Android users vulnerable.

For various reasons, consumers who download free programs (ask management, calendar, t map, etc.) often conceal mobile spyware. They are unaware that this app is a trojan horse for malicious software.

You can apply consistent security measures to all company-issued mobile devices with mobile device management. To prevent malware from infiltrating your network, you can upgrade devices to fix security flaws in older software.

Costs Can Be Reduced with the Aid of MDM

Unlike buying devices and software for employees and still needing to supply the device management, MDM services for BYOD devices can be a significant cost savings. Many businesses find that a well-managed MDM can save them money in the long run. In contrast, MDMs can often recoup their initial investment within a few years of implementation, thanks to the savings they provide. 

These savings are in addition to the time and money that have been saved, both of which contribute to the business's bottom line.

Facilitate IT Needs Internally

IT staff time is extensively used by managing mobile devices manually. It can become tough to manage effectively as the number of mobile devices within an organisation grows. An MDM solution streamlines this process by bringing the necessary tools and support for managing a mobile network onto a single, unified platform.

IT can perform better monitoring devices, eyeing for security holes, and tending to other IT needs beyond mobility with an MDM solution in place. Implementing MDM can boost an organisation's IT department's productivity and efficiency.

Text Message Phishing Is on the Rise

Smishing, short for "phishing via text message," is rising. As attacks get more sophisticated, they are also more difficult for humans to detect.

The alarming rise of phishing via SMS highlights the need for robust mobile device protection via MDM.

Enhancements to Workflows and Adaptability

Thanks to an MDM's streamlined collaboration and workflow management, work can be done from anywhere, not just in the office. Supervisors may rapidly set up teams using an MDM, delegate duties to individuals, and keep tabs on developing multiple projects simultaneously.

Tools like these help businesses streamline their internal operations using cutting-edge technology. 

Device Management is Made Easier and Stress-Free with MDM Service

If you outsource your MDM needs to a third party, you may redeploy your IT department's focus and expertise to more pressing issues, furthering the growth and success of your company.

Warehouses, factories, distribution centres, shipping companies, stores, and service companies can all benefit from implementing MDM systems. Mobile device management (MDM) allows for a "bird's eye view" of all the mobile devices used by an organisation in the office, the field, or any other location.  

Using cutting-edge technology, MDM solution providers can diagnose issues, implement fixes, and address security concerns in near real-time, all without removing the users' devices from their possession.

You can get an enterprise-level report summarising data from your company's mobile devices. Different MDM service providers offer different report types, with some even going so far as to offer dashboards and the ability to drill down into the reporting data. MDM services often use automated solutions to improve speed, accuracy, and customer satisfaction.

Guidelines for Effective Mobile Device Management

There are various recommended procedures to follow when beginning an MDM project:

Goals and Policies That Are Well Defined 

OrganisationalOrganisational mobility strategy should be defined before an MDM solution is implemented.

Preparation Is the Key

Develop security and MDM policies. Create thorough training programmes covering all device, data, and app management aspects, including security, privacy, and appropriate use.

Build a Benchmark 

Create a complete list of all mobile devices used by your company. Use the Discovery tool to conduct a network scan of your business and add all the assets you wish to monitor to your inventory. You can install the Agent or connect the tool to Google Endpoint Management or Jamf to keep track of and control your mobile devices.

Pick a Resource 

Make sure the mobile device management system you choose is compatible with the devices you already own. Have a set of criteria corresponding to your GRC needs, and test the one you choose in a pilot before implementing it throughout your entire live infrastructure. An IT asset management request for proposal (ITAM RFP) can help streamline and simplify this procedure.

Make a Strategy for Enrolling Devices 

Make an approach to recruitment that can be adapted to changing circumstances. Depending on the rhythm of your business, you can take several different tactics, such as manual, mass, or automated enrolment.

Maintaining Up-To-Date Software and Hardware Is Essential

To ensure that any security holes are addressed as quickly as possible, you should build your process to check devices for updates regularly.

Examine your regulations. Establish a routine to review your security rules to ensure they are relevant and meet your organisation's needs. 

Conclusion

Mobile Device Management (MDM) is crucial for businesses in today's fast-paced world, as it helps manage, protect, and enforce policies on smartphones, tablets, and other endpoints. MDM software includes enterprise file sync and share, identity and access management, and mobile application management (MAM). It aims to safeguard corporate networks while maximizing mobile devices' potential.

MDM systems function through two mechanisms: the MDM Server, which is hosted in the cloud or a data center, and the MDM Agent, which is installed on the mobile device. Policies for mobile device security are changed in the MDM Server Management panel and pushed to the MDM agent when necessary by the IT department.

Android-based mobile devices can be managed and administered centrally using the Android OS's built-in tools and APIs. Apple's Mobile Device Management system allows companies to securely manage and customize their iOS and macOS devices.

Businesses benefit from MDM due to increased use of smartphones and tablets, but security for mobile devices has not kept pace with this evolution. A mobile device management solution, such as Microsoft Intune, can help monitor the safety and well-being of all employee devices, allowing for remote access, preventing unauthorised devices from gaining access, and ensuring data protection.

A mobile device management application is essential for several reasons, including strengthening online safety, addressing the increasing use of mobile devices in office settings, and addressing concerns about the safety and administration of employees' mobile device connections to corporate systems.

Mobile device management (MDM) is essential for businesses to facilitate Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives, reduce costs, and ensure the security of sensitive company data. MDM allows employees to use their mobile devices while keeping sensitive information private.

Threats from mobile malware, such as viruses and phishing scams, have increased, with a 161% rise in mobile phishing attacks in the first half of 2021. By applying consistent security measures to all company-issued mobile devices, businesses can prevent malware from infiltrating their network.

MDM services can be a significant cost savings, as they can often recoup their initial investment within a few years of implementation. It also helps IT departments manage their mobile devices effectively, boosting productivity and efficiency. The alarming rise of text message phishing highlights the need for robust mobile device protection via MDM.

MDM also enhances workflows and adaptability, allowing work to be done from anywhere, not just in the office. Outsourcing MDM needs to a third party can redeploy IT department expertise to more pressing issues, furthering the growth and success of the company.

To implement an effective MDM project, follow these guidelines:

1. Define organizational mobility strategy.

2. Develop security and MDM policies.

3. Build a benchmark by creating a complete list of all mobile devices used by the company.

4. Pick a resource compatible with existing devices.

5. Develop a strategy for enroling devices.

6. Regularly check devices for updates and review security rules to ensure they are relevant and meet the organization's needs.

Content Summary

• The relevance of Mobile Device Management (MDM) in today's business landscape is a critical question.
• Mobile devices like smartphones play a crucial role in modern business operations.
• Businesses must protect confidential data and adhere to privacy laws amid increased mobility.
• MDM saves the day for corporate data protection.
• The role of MDM in contemporary business environments is explored in this post.
• MDM remains vital regardless of a company's size or industry.
• Distant employment challenges, new mobile platforms, and data privacy concerns are addressed.
• MDM allows for managing and securing smartphones, tablets, and other endpoints.
• Enterprise file sync, identity management, and mobile application management are MDM tools.
• MDM safeguards corporate networks while maximizing mobile device potential.
• Compatibility extends to iOS, Android, macOS, and IoT devices.
• MDM relies on the MDM Server and MDM Agent for device control.
• Policies for mobile security are managed through the MDM Server.
• MDM enables remote software updates and installations.
• Android MDM uses built-in tools for central device management.
• Apple devices like iPad, iPhone, and Mac are managed through Apple's MDM.
• MDM ensures secure management and customization of Apple device fleets.
• Employee reliance on mobile devices for work is increasing.
• Inadequate mobile device security exposes businesses to cyber threats.
• MDM software helps monitor and secure employee devices.
• It tracks device access to company resources.
• Access can be remotely granted or revoked.
• Unauthorized devices can be prevented from accessing the system.
• Remote OS and software updates enhance security.
• MDM provides insights into device access and usage patterns.
• It enables remote device locking and data wiping.
• MDM controls and monitors all staff mobile devices.
• It secures both business and personal data on employee-owned phones.
• MDM strengthens online security and prevents network intrusions.
• Mobile devices are a common vector for cyberattacks.
• Phishing attacks via mobile devices are on the rise.
• MDM helps protect against mobile malware and phishing.
• MDM reduces costs, especially for BYOD programs.
• Well-managed MDM can save businesses money in the long run.
• MDM enhances IT department efficiency.
• Mobile device management streamlines device monitoring and security.
• Smishing, or SMS phishing, is a growing concern.
• Robust MDM protection is needed against smishing attacks.
• MDM improves workflows and adaptability, enabling remote work.
• Collaboration and project management are streamlined with MDM.
• MDM simplifies device management and reduces IT stress.
• Outsourcing MDM to third parties allows IT to focus on critical issues.
• Various industries can benefit from MDM implementation.
• MDM offers a comprehensive view of mobile devices across locations.
• MDM providers diagnose and address issues in real-time.
• Enterprise-level reports summarise data from mobile devices.
• MDM services use automation for speed and accuracy.
• Effective MDM starts with well-defined goals and policies.
• Preparation, security policies, and training are essential.
• Regular device updates and security rule reviews are crucial for MDM success.