Mobile Device Management
MDM (Mobile Device Management), is a term used for the management of corporate-owned mobile devices (Android and iOS).
Headwind MDM is a solution for management of corporate-owned Android devices. At present, iOS devices aren’t covered by our system.
The Mobile Device Management shell is an application installed on an empty device (new or reset to factory settings). This installation is called Enrollment. Here’s how the MDM application can be enrolled on the device:
- Scanning a QR code. The administrator opens a hidden enrollment screen by tapping 7 times on a welcome screen, sets up a Wi-Fi connection, and scans a QR code provided by the MDM server. The application is automatically downloaded and installed.
- Bumping a NFC tag. The administrator writes data provided by the MDM server onto a NFC tag and bumps the tag by the empty device. The MDM application is downloaded and installed.
- Using Android Studio and adb command (for development purposes only).
Headwind MDM uses the first option (QR code) for enrollment.
Extended permissions
After installation, the MDM application has more rights than an “ordinary” Android application. For example, it can:
- Silently install, update, and uninstall applications;
- Manage application permissions, including access to camera and SD card;
- Adjust various device settings (GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi);
- Retrieve device information (i.e., network and battery traffic).
These extended rights can be used to configure multiple corporate devices from a single point (MDM server).
Why use an MDM platform?
Mobile device management transforms mobile devices into powerful corporate tools that are easy to use and manage.
- Security – Every company cares about the safety and integrity of its corporate data. The MDM platform can protect the device against unauthorized usage, sets up the requirements for PIN code protection, and secures the network connection.
- Software update – Corporate applications aren’t usually distributed through Google Play to avoid unauthorized usage. Keeping the software up-to-date is a nuisance for every IT manager. The MDM platform keeps apps updated on managed devices.
- Remote support – When a remote user experiences a problem or error, it’s difficult to diagnose and fix the issue. The MDM platform simplifies resolution by providing tools for remote support and debugging.
- Management – The MDM software may display the user’s location and availability to verify proper usage of the mobile device. Therefore, it’s a must-have tool for supervisors.
However, the MDM software does have a drawback: it’s difficult to enroll the software on the user’s personal device because corporate data must be separated from personal data. Headwind MDM is intended for use only on corporate-owned Android devices.