Mobile Device Management software has become indispensable for companies in the era of remote work. The platform allows businesses to manage and secure employees’ mobile devices, ensuring that corporate data remains safe, regardless of where the work is being done. This software enables IT administrators to remotely control, enforce policies, and configure settings on smartphones, tablets, and other devices across various operating systems.
The best MDM software offers security and manageability and prioritizes ease of use. They provide essential features like remote wiping, device tracking, app management, and data encryption, all in a user-friendly interface. With the rise of remote work, the demand for comprehensive mobile device management solutions has skyrocketed, leading to many options in the market.
Before diving into the specifics of each software, it’s critical to highlight some challenges and statistics associated with managing mobile devices in a distributed workforce:
Rising Security Threats:
With the rise of remote work, there’s been a surge in mobile security threats, making MDM more crucial than ever.
Compliance and Data Privacy:
Ensuring devices comply with international data protection regulations is a constant challenge for IT departments.
Device and OS Diversity:
Managing a wide range of devices and operating systems requires versatile solutions. The key to a successful MDM strategy is not just choosing any solution but the right one that addresses these challenges and aligns with your company’s needs. The right MDM software can significantly enhance your company’s security, making this decision crucial.
How to Choose the Best MDM Software in 2024?
Here are some crucial considerations to keep in mind:
Assess Your Needs:
Consider the types of devices and operating systems your team uses and the specific security and management features you need.
Security and Compliance:
Look for software that offers robust security features and compliance with relevant regulations.
Ease of Use and Integration:
The software should be user-friendly for administrators and integrate well with your IT infrastructure.
Scalability:
Ensure the software can scale as your company grows and device management needs evolve. The best MDM software is designed to adapt to your company’s changing needs, providing a sense of security and reassurance for decision-makers.
Support and Reliability:
Consider the level of customer support and the software’s reliability based on user reviews.
List of Top 15 MDM Software to use in 2024
Let’s investigate the top MDM software options for all sized companies and remote organizations in 2024, comparing their features, pricing, and best use cases. We’ll also discuss the potential risks associated with each software and provide strategies to mitigate them, ensuring you can make an informed decision.
AirWatch by VMware
AirWatch by VMware is at the forefront of enterprise mobility, offering a robust platform for comprehensive endpoint management across diverse operating systems. This platform is designed to meet the needs of large enterprises seeking a scalable and secure solution for device management, application management, email management, and content security.
It also has capabilities beyond device oversight, delivering an intuitive content locker and advanced application management tools that ensure data security and compliance. The custom pricing model allows organizations to tailor the solution to their specific needs, making it an ideal choice for businesses requiring a broad range of management and security features across multiple operating systems.
Microsoft Intune
Microsoft Intune is deeply integrated with Azure AD and Office 365, marking a significant evolution in mobile device and application management. Offering a cloud-based solution, Intune enables organizations deeply rooted in the Microsoft ecosystem to achieve seamless management across all devices. Its flexibility and integration capabilities make it especially suitable for environments that demand rigorous device and app control without sacrificing user experience. As part of Microsoft 365 subscriptions, Intune is the go-to choice for organizations looking for a powerful solution that is harmonious with their existing Microsoft infrastructure.
MobileIron
MobileIron emerges as a leader in zero-trust security, offering a comprehensive suite of mobile device and application management and secure content management solutions. Designed for enterprises that prioritize security without compromising on the flexibility needed for modern business, MobileIron’s platform is built on a mobile-centric zero-trust framework. This approach ensures that all devices, regardless of location, are secure and managed efficiently, with pricing available upon request.
MobileIron is ideal for organizations that demand high security and management precision. It focuses on protecting enterprise data across applications, networks, and cloud environments.
Jamf Pro
Jamf Pro specializes in managing Apple devices, providing a seamless and comprehensive deployment, inventory, and security solution. Tailored for organizations that predominantly use macOS, iOS, and tvOS devices, Jamf Pro offers unparalleled application lifecycle management, ensuring that devices are managed efficiently from setup to retirement.
With pricing based on the number of devices managed, Jamf Pro is the perfect fit for Apple-centric environments looking for an end-to-end management solution that enhances user experience and ensures device compliance and security.
Cisco Meraki
Cisco Meraki revolutionizes how small—and medium-sized businesses manage their devices and networks through its cloud-based management platform. Offering simplicity and control without needing on-site hardware, It also provides network integration, location analytics, and mobile device security, all managed from a single dashboard. Subscription-based pricing ensures businesses can scale their device management needs according to their growth.
Cisco Meraki is the ideal choice for businesses seeking a unified solution that manages devices efficiently and provides valuable insights into network usage and user behavior.
ManageEngine
ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus is a versatile enterprise mobility management software that supports iOS and Android devices. It simplifies mobile device management by providing features such as device enrollment, app management, email management, and remote troubleshooting. With a pricing model that includes a free tier for up to 25 devices and scalable paid plans, it caters to businesses of all sizes.
This software is particularly suited for organizations needing a comprehensive and scalable device management solution that is both powerful and user-friendly.
IBM MaaS360
IBM MaaS360 is at the cutting edge of the MDM platform, offering AI-driven insights for enhanced management and security. It stands out for its ability to provide identity management and protected access to business resources, starting at $4 per device/month. This solution is geared towards organizations looking for a data-driven approach to MDM, leveraging AI for more intelligent management and security strategies.
IBM MaaS360 is ideal for companies seeking advanced insights and analytics in their device management practices.
Sophos Mobile
Sophos Mobile offers a robust Unified Endpoint Management solution that secures mobile devices and applications. It emphasizes strong security measures and provides container policies for BYOD scenarios, ensuring data protection across personal and corporate devices. With quote-based pricing, Sophos Mobile is suited for companies that require a stringent security posture while maintaining flexibility for BYOD policies.
This solution is perfect for organizations that need a comprehensive approach to secure their mobile workforce.
Hexnode MDM
Hexnode MDM delivers a comprehensive device management solution that supports many capabilities, including app, security, and expense management. With pricing starting at $1 per device/month, it offers a cost-effective solution for businesses of all sizes. It’s particularly suitable for those utilizing kiosk devices or requiring multi-platform support. It offers a versatile and inclusive solution for modern device management needs.
SOTI MobiControl
SOTI MobiControl provides advanced security, remote control, and IoT device management capabilities. With custom quote-based pricing, it’s designed for enterprises needing to manage a diverse range of devices, including IoT endpoints.
Along with that, It’s ideal for companies looking for a comprehensive solution to reduce the complexity and costs of managing various device types and operating systems.
Citrix Endpoint Management
Citrix Endpoint Management integrates seamlessly with Citrix Workspace, offering device and app management capabilities that enhance employee productivity. It caters to customers looking to extend virtual desktop capabilities to mobile devices. This solution best suits organizations leveraging Citrix’s digital workspace technology for a unified, secure, and productive mobile workforce.
BlackBerry Unified Endpoint Manager
BlackBerry Unified Endpoint Manager provides a secure way to manage smartphones, tablets, laptops, and IoT devices. Its pricing is based on the number of devices and service level, and it’s designed for organizations with high-security requirements. Also, it’s ideal for businesses needing comprehensive management capabilities across multiple device types with stringent security standards.
Google Workspace MDM
Google Workspace MDM offers essential device management integrated with Google Workspace, including app management and device tracking. It’s included with Google Workspace subscriptions and suitable for small—to medium-sized businesses already utilizing Google services.
This solution is perfect for organizations looking for an MDM solution that integrates seamlessly with their existing Google Workspace environment, providing essential management capabilities without added complexity.
Apple Business Manager
Apple Business Manager simplifies device deployment and management for only Apple devices, offering volume purchase of apps and streamlined setup. Free for Apple customers, it’s ideal for businesses exclusively using Apple products.
ABM is the go-to choice for organizations seeking to simplify the deployment and management of devices. It ensures a seamless experience for IT administrators and users.
Kaspersky Endpoint Security for Business
Kaspersky Endpoint Security for Business focuses on security, offering device and application control and device and file encryption. With quote-based pricing it’s aimed at organizations prioritizing security, especially in sectors like finance and healthcare.
This solution best suits businesses seeking an MDM solution that provides robust protection against threats while managing mobile devices and applications.
Conclusion
Implementing the right mobile device management solution can significantly enhance your organization’s security posture and operational efficiency, especially in a distributed work environment. With the diverse options available, choosing a solution that best fits your organizational needs and future-proofs your mobile device management strategy is essential.
This article provided a comprehensive guide to the best MDM software for distributed companies in 2024. By selecting a suitable solution from the list above, you can ensure robust management and security of your organization’s mobile devices.