What is MDM, EMM, and UEM? (Compare Device & Feature)

Devices have a more widespread utilization in workplaces than ever backed by internet and wireless networking technology.

Productivity raises, however, security issues as well, for example, data loss.
It can be caused by device fault, cyberattacks and ransomware through apps and browsers, or employee error. Measures for security must be taken. And MDM (Mobile Device Management), EMM (Enterprise Mobility Management), and UEM (Unified Endpoint Management) are tactics to help.

MDM, EMM, and UEM are designed to manage devices through a central console, which, share a certain similarity. But, their application scenarios can be very different.

In this article, we will explore the comparison based on supported devices, features, and use cases (including clear charts). It will be helpful to decide which management approach is right for you

Part 1 : What is MDM, EMM, and UEM? What are the Use Cases?

Managing device involves system settings, stored documents, installed apps and also other contents. MDM, EMM, and UEM are tools to meet different management needs. Interestingly enough, they’re not invented separately but within a progressive and inclusive relationship.

1What is MDM (Mobile Device Management) and its Use Cases?

Mobile Device Management is a solution to control device system settings and monitor device status. Essentially, MDM software allows the admin to remote access an enrolled mobile device, such as a smartphone, and then set up rules on the functionalities.

MDM focuses on controlling and limiting the built-in features, and also observing the condition of the device. Due to the requirement of getting device info and operation permissions, MDM is best used for dedicated devices, for example:

2What is EMM (Enterprise Mobility Management) and its Use Cases?

Being the next stage of MDM, Enterprise Mobility Management rises remarkably with remote working developed. It is a solution to protect company data from managing devices, apps, and files to users.

Through an EMM platform, the company is able to structure its organization by grouping employees based on departments and teams, remote control mobile devices, manage app and file usages, and assign permissions to employees. Some EMM providers also offer online collaboration tools and cloud storage services together with the administration, such as Google Workspace.

EMM manages and controls more items than MDM - the flexible access and usage of apps and cooperated resources. Thus, it is best used in:

3What is UEM (Unified Endpoint Management) and its Use Cases?

Unified Endpoint Management is the evolution of EMM. It secures both devices and data across varied endpoints and is compatible with multiple systems.

To give an example, UEM can administrate Windows PCs, iOS and Android mobile devices, or other IoT devices from a centralized system.

The ultimate solution satisfies all walks of life, mainly including:

Part 2 : Differences Between MDM, EMM, and UEM

MDM, EMM, and UEM address the issues related to device and data security. These management tools are closely related but have some differences.

For example, EMM and MDM are key parts of IT strategies in an organization. The main difference between EMM and MDM is that EMM manages access not just about the device, but also includes applications, content, and other resources related to the company; MDM, on the other hand, focuses more on device compliance and provides various policies to enforce access restrictions.

Now, let's explore more on MDM vs EMM vs UEM.

1Supported Devices

UEM is the most compatible solution covering different kinds of endpoint. It is workable on network-connected devices whether employee-used, customer-used, or industrial-used.

The biggest difference between EMM and MDM falls in device ownership - EMM is for Bring Your Own Device while MDM is for company-owned devices. This is brought by the management of apps and files. As mobile devices are available to partition data area into work and private zone, EMM software support accessing only work zone to complement the control. Hence, companies are allowed to manage devices belonging to employees.

2Supported Features

UEM has the most features which are related to manageable endpoints. And EMM has more capabilities to manage applications and contents than MDM.

Here’re some key features of MDM, EMM, and UEM.

Mobile Device Management

• Kiosk Mode
• Policy
• Geofencing
• Alters & Automate remote operations

Enterprise Mobility Management

• App Whitelist & Blacklist
• File Management
• User Access Management
• Conditional remote delete device and user data

Unified Endpoint Management

• Multi-platform device management
• Multi-platform app management
• Cloud service for all company data

3Management Tasks

UEM contains all EMM and MDM features as well as device types. It has the largest management tasks of the three, including multi-system devices, apps across different platforms, users and contents. Each aspect requires deeper configuration and permission management.

As for EMM and MDM, the former has more management purposes, mainly in app usage and user access. MDM has a simple task relatively.

Part 3 : Limitations of MDM, EMM, and UEM

Deploying an incorrect methodology can waste cash and destroy workspace morale. And, the perfect solution does not mean the most powerful one. To know weak points will help find the best solution that suits your company's needs.

MDM will not be the best choice if there is an advanced need for app and user identity management. In addition, some endpoints are unable to use Mobile Device Management software, like desktops.

EMM is not liked by employees in some cases because of privacy-violating issues. The solution is able to access device contents and take remote actions on them. Companies may spend time resolving disputes.

Unified Endpoint Management requires a professional IT team to take over the operation. Thus, enterprises will have to train their employee so that to get with the system.

FAQs

What systems do MDM, EMM, and UEM support?

Maverick

MDM, EMM and UEM are available for devices that run Android, Apple, Windows, and Chrome generally. But it’s varied according to the third-party provider.

Do MDM, EMM, and UEM support cloud-based or on-premises deployment?

Maverick

Both are available. You can use cloud-based or on-premises MDM, EMM and UEM for your company.

What is RMM (Remote monitoring and management )?

Maverick

It's a process that enables managed IT firms and IT administrators to monitor a company's endpoints, devices, and networks effortlessly while far away from the workplace.