It seems that cloud-attribute services share generalities - cost saving but with security concerns. Cloud mobile device management solutions are no exception.
Said by the 2022 Maximizing Mobile Value study, organizations are paying $3.25 - $9 per device/month for MDM licenses. Compare to on-premise deployment, which requires more infrastructure and O&M costs, cloud-based MDM solutions save the fee.
The problem is that, Cloud adoption for mobile device management is more likely to suffer cybercrime. The risk of data breaches, malicious access, and other security threats require enterprises to use reliable solutions.
And here is the right place if you’re looking for such cloud MDM solutions. More, we also contain the feature intro and several tips.
1What Can You Do with Cloud MDM (Mobile Device Management)?
MDM (Mobile Device Management) is a powerful way to keep business’s data secure that enables in-house IT team to efficiently manage and maintain the security of mobile devices. Third-party MDM providers commonly offer cloud deployment which enterprises will need to download software or log in with web, and it’s called Cloud MDM.
As the world transitions to an increasingly digital landscape, having a secure, reliable, and agile mobile device management system is essential for companies of all sizes.
With MDM Cloud, organizations can gain better visibility and control their mobile devices. Here are some of the major capabilities of Cloud MDM:
Device Inventory and User Management
A console is provided to centralize work-use devices and members of the organization. Through the MDM dashboard, an administrator can enroll and remove facilities, or create a device list to enforce certain actions in bulk.
It works the same in user management. The admin is able to invite employees by creating user accounts and grouping them on the dashboard. He can also restrict or grant access to a single user or in groups.
Set Up Security Policies
Predefined security policies can be set up for devices to protect sensitive corporate data and prevent unauthorized access. Password enforcement is possible, as well as app blocklist, network configuration and other system-related restrictions.
This feature is enable to give a safe environment for using company-owned or BYOD devices.
Set Up Kiosk Mode
Kiosk Mode is a preset lockdown feature that makes devices work as digital kiosks with only a single app or multiple apps allow to use.
Some cloud MDM solutions support kiosk browser which is to set up a whitelist for websites, and custom layout to show company brand personality.
Application Management
Application management is an essential feature of device management tools. Basically, it helps with installing, removing, and updating apps.
Some provide more capabilities, such as releasing and testing a self-designed business app. As PRNewswire reports, 48% of small businesses have their own apps. And a cloud-based MDM tool can give a hand to it.
Note : AirDroid Business is able to publish apps based on location, device type, group, etc. Learn more.
Remote Control Device
Cloud MDM provides the ability to remotely control devices, such as remote wipe, remote lock, file transfer with data encrypted, and others.
Automated Alerts
As an additional security measure, Cloud MDM can alert the administrator with preset triggers.
For example, in AirDroid Business, you can set up alerts for monitoring device status, app usage, and cellular data usage. More importantly, automated implementing actions are also available. This helps to ensure that your mobile devices are always compliant with the latest security and regulatory requirements.
Geofencing allows administrators to track the device’s location in real time and also the path history. It’s best used for monitoring and securing devices.
Device and User Report
You can use this insight to better understand how devices are working and how your users are interacting with devices so to better secure company data.
28 Secure Cloud MDM Solutions Best for Enterprises
AirDroid Business is a user-friendly cloud MDM solution developed by Sand Studio founded in 2011. It is compliant with ISO 27001 and the requirements of the GDPR.
The software is highly compatible with the Android system and supports mobile devices as well as industrial endpoints. It can be used to monitor and manage smartphones, tablets, POS terminals, rugged devices, custom devices, kiosks, digital signage, and others.
Pricing:
$12-33 per device/year
Key Features:
Alerts and workflow
Publish, scheduled release, update and block application
Kiosk mode, such as single-app, multi-app, and kiosk browser
Remote control devices, such as locking, wiping, file transfer
Provides a wide range of remote management features.
Manage multiple devices at once.
Cons
Only works on Android devices.
Some features may not be available on older Android versions.
2Jamf
If you’re looking for Apple-targeted cloud based MDM solutions, you should look into Jamf - an Apple device management tool for 20 years.
Pricing:
$4 - $13.65 and more per device/month
Key Features:
Zero-Touch Deployment
Configure OS devices with policies and scripts
App management
Identity and access management
Pros
Integrate with Apple Business Manager, available for iCloud services and volume purchase apps.
Easy to deploy apps.
Cons
Only works on Apple devices.
May need training to help set up.
3Apple Business Essentials (ABE)
Apple Business Essentials is a suite of Cloud-native services developed by Apple Inc, that provides small businesses with a centralized portal for managing and deploying Apple devices.
As a tool directly subordinate to the Apple ecosystem, companies can seamlessly use ABE for iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and of course, the apps installed on the device.
Pricing:
$2.99-9.99 per device/mo; $6.99-24.99 per user/mo
Key Features:
Manage devices own by corporate or employee
Purchase and distribute apps and books to the device
Cloud storage to backup data
Remote wipe devices and users (support data recovery)
Set up Wi-Fi, VPN, and password policies
Pros
Available for FileVault security.
Official AppleCare+ for fast onsite repairs.
Simple and comfortable interface.
Smooth and easy device enrollment process.
Cons
Only supports Apple devices.
Limited features, not suitable for large enterprises.
4Microsoft Intune
Microsoft Intune is a both cloud-based MDM and comprehensive endpoint management provider developed by Microsoft, that can be used to manage and secure devices running on various operating systems, including Windows, iOS, and Android.
Pricing:
$10.60 - 16.40 per user/month
Key Features:
Remotely manage and secure devices and apps
Create and enforce device policies
Monitor device compliance and security status
Integration with other Microsoft products, like Azure Active Directory.
Pros
Support a variety of platforms, including Windows, iOS, and Android.
Provides robust built-in security and compliance features.
Integration with other Microsoft products.
Cons
Complex license package and may cause a waste of resources.
Low compatibility with non-Microsoft security products.
Some features are not working well in managing mobile devices.
5Google Workspace
Endorsed by Google, the world-class technology company, Google Workspace brings solutions to improve BYOD workflows for enterprises.
It has a set of cloud computing and collaboration tools with an admin console to manage both devices and apps in one place. Smartphones, tablets, and laptops that run Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Chrome OS are available to use the mobile device management tool.
Pricing:
$6 - $18 per user/month
Key Features:
Set up security policies or keys
Distribute apps and control their usage
User access management
Remote wipe device & user data
Monitor devices, apps, and user activities and get alerts
Pros
Compatible with multiple systems and allow cross-platform use.
Integration with other Google Workspace services, such as Gmail, Docs, Chat, Meet, etc.
Use Google Drive to store and share files online.
Cons
Device and app management capabilities are limited for non-Android devices.
Requires a good internet connection to work efficiently.
Complicated licenses and pricing plans may cause confusion.
6Ivanti Neurons for MDM
Ivanti is another cloud MDM software designed for BYOD and company-owned devices. It’s a product of Ivanti which is a global software company focused on IT service management.
Pricing:
Receive a custom quote after filling info
Key Features:
Passcode enforcement
Secure business apps, email gateway, and VPN
Install and configure apps
Remote access and control devices
Integration with other Ivanti security solutions, such as Ivanti Neurons for AI-driven automation
Pros
Support multi-operating systems including iOS, macOS, Android, and Windows.
Its Cloud-based UEM solution is available to VR/XR device.
Cons
Poor onboarding process.
Some features are not working well.
7FileCloud
Finding MDM solutions to help with content management? FileCloud makes it simple. Its main services centre on file management and data loss prevention.
FileCloud allows self-host software on AWS, AWS GovCloud and Azure. Currently, it supports Windows and can be used on browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari.
Pricing:
$12.50 - $18.75 per user/mo
Key Features:
Remote access and control devices
Backup and restore files from mobile devices
Remote file sharing
Access management
Full files encryption
Detect and block ransomware
Pros
Integrate with Microsoft Active Directory.
Private cloud file sharing.
Cons
Limited features for advanced mobile device management.
Need a fast internet connection.
8BlackBerry UEM
BlackBerry UEM (formerly known as BlackBerry Enterprise Server) is a part of BlackBerry wireless platform to secure and manage multiple Internet of Things. Smartphones, PCs, laptops, wearables, and smart healthcare IoT devices are on the workable list.
BlackBerry is certified Common Criteria EAL4+.
Pricing:
Start at $5.0 per user/month
Key Features:
Manage all devices, users, apps and content in one place
Enforce security policies to access applications and documents
Single sign-on to cloud services
Build-in communication tools
Pros
Support iOS, mac OS, Android, Windows, Chrome OS.
Integrate with Microsoft, easy access to Microsoft office apps.
Deploy via Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud is possible.
Cons
Complicated functions, require professional IT personnel.
Slow update on documentation.
3What to Look at When Choosing a Cloud MDM Solution?
1. What is its deployment mode?
There are three types of Cloud MDM (Based on Deployment Mode): Private Cloud MDM, Public Cloud MDM, and Hybrid Cloud MDM.
Private Cloud MDM: A private cloud is a dedicated cloud environment that is owned and operated by a single organization. The organization will have full control over infrastructure and data. After installing the MDM system package, the organization can use and customize it as per its needs.
Public Cloud MDM: A public cloud is a shared cloud environment that is owned and operated by a third-party cloud service provider (like AWS and Microsoft Azure), and used by software companies as database support. SaaS MDM is an example. Organizations can install a public cloud mobile device management software from app stores to their device or log in via the web.
Hybrid Cloud MDM: A hybrid cloud combines both private and public cloud environments. Quite a few MDM solutions offer on-premise and cloud-based installation and organizations can switch deployment easily.
Tips:
Private Cloud MDM is the safest solution that keeps all thing in hand. But it requires more investment in self-hosted IT infrastructure and staff.
Public Cloud MDM is the most common solution that is applicable to large, small and mid-size businesses. It’s a cost-effective option. But the organization may not have as much control over its company data and may have risks of data leakage.
As for Hybrid Cloud MDM, it’s flexible and allows the organization to choose deployment mode according to stages.
Your cloud strategy determines which one to choose.
2. How does it keep Data?
How the cloud MDM platform handles data storage and protection? Here are a few key considerations:
Backup: Verify if the solution has a built-in backup system in place, and how often it performs backups. Additionally, evaluate the security measures in place to protect data from unauthorized access, such as encryption, user authentication, and access controls.
Retention time: Investigate the retention time of data stored within the system and what are the options available for long-term storage.
Data recovery: Understand how easy is to recover data in case of data loss. This can include options such as self-service recovery and disaster recovery.
3. Does it meet security standards?
It’s noteworthy that a cloud-based MDM tool that used third-party cloud computing services shares safety responsibility with the cloud provider.
That’s to say, both cloud services providers and the cloud MDM tool should comply with information security standards and regulations.
You can check if the device management tool is compliant with global regulations like HIPPA, GDPR, ISO 27001, NIST, NERC, and FISMA.
4Pros & Cons of Using Cloud-Based MDM
Why you should use cloud mobile device management? Check the following benefits.
Pros of Cloud MDM
1. Reinforce data security. Meanwhile, malware and ransomware are evolving. Companies lacking cybersecurity personnel need to protect their devices from data breaches.
2. Conveniently access and manage devices from web or mobile phones with an internet connection anytime, anywhere.
3. Invest according to need. Companies can purchase features selectively.
4. Save costs. Companies do not need to buy expensive hardware or IT resources to deploy the MDM software.
5. Reduce workload. Since data are kept by cloud MDM software, companies do no need to manage data, detect vulnerabilities or maintain firewalls.
Cons of Cloud MDM
1. Possible data leakage caused by cloud MDM software. Thus, it’s critical to find a secure one.
2. Affect by Internet speed. Cloud-based solutions require a stable internet connection to work properly, which may not be available in all locations or during certain times.
3. Limited control of data storage. This may bring storage capacity and storage time problems. And enterprises need to pay more for capacity expansion or suffer from irrecoverable data.
4. Data sovereignty issues. Enterprises may have concerns about where their data is stored and how it is handled by the cloud MDM provider, especially when it comes to laws and regulations compliance.
Common Questions
How to choose the best cloud MDM solution?
Maverick
Choosing the best cloud MDM solution for your organization can be a complex task, as there are many factors to consider, such as security, ease of use, integration, and customer support. Here are some key steps to follow when evaluating different solutions:
1. Identify your needs: Determine what specific features and capabilities you need in an MDM solution, such as device management, security, and app distribution.
2. Research solutions: Research different cloud MDM solutions and compare their features and capabilities against your identified needs.
3. Evaluate security: Carefully evaluate the security features of each solution and ensure that it meets your organization's security needs.
4. Check for integrations: Ensure that the solution integrates with other tools and systems within your organization, such as Active Directory and Exchange.
5. Assess the scalability: Consider if the solution can scale to accommodate the growing number of devices within your organization.
6. User-friendliness: Look for a solution that is easy to set up and manage, with a user-friendly interface and a good range of management and monitoring capabilities.
7. Check for deployment mode: Consider the deployment mode that the solution offers, whether it's public, private or hybrid, choose the one that best suits your organization's needs.
8. Cost: compare the costs of different solutions, including subscription and licensing fees, support costs, and any additional costs that may be associated with the solution.
What's the difference between on-premise and cloud-based MDM?
Maverick
On-premises MDM solutions are installed and managed on the organization's own servers, while cloud-based solutions are hosted and managed by a third-party provider and accessed over the internet.
How to set up cloud MDM solution?
Maverick
1. Log into the console and find device enrollment.
2. Install software on the device being controlled and start enrollment.
3. Add the controlled device to the device list on the console.
4. Set up a policy configuration file to restrict certain usage of the controlled device.
For more than 8 years, Maverick has dig deep into IT and mobile device management. He delivers practical MDM solution tips and strategies for various endpoints management.
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