The use of mobile devices in the workplace has skyrocketed. Even before the mobile work revolution that came with the COVID-19 pandemic, bring your own device (BYOD) policies and the rise in mobility at work had caused an increase in the use of mobile devices. These days, 75% of employees use their personal mobile phones for work and 84% of companies have a BYOD policy. What this means for organizations is that they need mobile device management (MDM) in place to ensure the security of their systems and data.
What Is MDM?
MDM is software that makes it possible for IT administrators to manage and secure mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, which are endpoints that can easily be used by malicious actors to gain access to a company’s critical systems and sensitive data. MDM goes hand-in-hand with mobile application management (MAM).
How MDM Works
MDM is software that can be run as an on-premises solution or a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution via the cloud. Each device is enrolled with the MDM software and verified on the MDM server. This gives IT administrators the ability to configure and manage these devices from a single dashboard, sending out commands to the devices via an application programming interface (API).
MDM Features
MDM comes with a variety of advanced features t help IT administrators have full control over devices that are connected to the company’s network and systems. These include:
- Device inventory
- The ability to configure devices and set restrictions
- Management of applications and content
- Security of devices and data
- Policy Enforcement
- Automation of device enrollment and settings and application deployment
- Remote maintenance
Benefits of MDM
Just as there are benefits to allowing employees to use mobile devices to get their work done, such as increased productivity and the ability to work remotely, there are several incredible benefits to using MDM to keep those devices secure. These benefits include:
Full control over corporate devices
MDM provides IT administration with full visibility into every corporate device and full control over those devices throughout their entire lifecycle. This includes the ability to configure these devices remotely, update devices when needed, replace devices when required, and wipe a device when it is time to give it to a new employee.
BYOD is supported
With MDM, employees can enroll their own devices with the MDM server and use it for their work. This makes it easier for them to manage their devices, improving productivity and boosting morale, while allowing administrators to ensure that company data, applications, emails, and documents are segregated from their personal equivalents.
Improved application control
MDM allows administrators to control which applications can and cannot be used on corporate devices, ensuring that no third party has access to company data and systems.
Data backup
All data stored on the mobile device can be backed up regularly to ensure that it is retrievable should the data be lost.
Device security
In the event that the device is lost, stolen, or hacked by a malicious actor, the data that is on the device can be locked or wiped so that data won’t fall into the wrong hands.
Regulatory compliance
With each mobile device used by employees enrolled in MDM, organizations can ensure that they are in compliance with all laws, regulations, and guidelines regarding the use, transfer, and storage of sensitive data.
Reduced costs
The ability to allow employees to use their own devices and work remotely reduces the costs associated with providing corporate devices and workspaces. Managing all mobile devices from a convenient dashboard minimizes the need for a large IT administration staff. In addition, companies using MDM reduce the risk of incurring costs associated with a data or system breach.
Connect with Platinum Technologies today to find out how we can help you implement and effectively use MDM to secure the mobile devices connected to your network and systems.