Flexible Device Enrollment Options for Windows & Android Devices
Device Enrollment: Manual Enrollment vs. Automated Enrollment [2025]
Device enrollment is an important first step for effective mobile device management. It ensures all devices are properly linked to the management system—giving IT teams centralized management at their fingertips.
With multiple enrollment methods available—ranging from manual input to automated bulk enrollment—selecting the right approach can seem overwhelming for enterprise IT teams.
Factors like deployment scale, device type, and user experience also play a key role in this decision, adding layers of complexity. With a clear understanding of these enrollment methods, organizations can feel empowered to streamline device onboarding and optimize management workflows.
1Key Differences Between Manual & Automated Device Enrollment
Organizations typically choose between manual and automated enrollment methods, each with distinct characteristics.
Individual vs. Bulk Device Setup
Manual device enrollment involves administrators/users registering devices one at a time. This process typically involves downloading and installing the MDM client on each devices, inputting device details, and completing authentication steps. While suitable for small-scale deployments, it becomes inefficient for managing larger fleets.
In contrast, automated enrollment enables IT teams to register multiple devices simultaneousl. Devices can be pre-configured with apps, policies, and network settings, so they are made ready for use immediately after activation.
Security and Time Cost
Manual enrollment involves manually entering device information and verifying identity and authorization, which can lead to configuration errors and inconsistencies. Automated enrollment reduces these risks by enabling administrators to manage the process through a centralized dashboard, minimizing manual errors. It also accelerates the process by applying configurations in bulk, thus saving time.
2Manual Enrollment Explained
Manual device enrollment is the process of individually configuring devices to register with a Mobile Device Management (MDM) system. Common manual enrollment methods include:
- Regular Enrollment: In regular enrollment, administrators install the MDM client software manually on each device. Once installed, the device connects to the organization's MDM server by scanning a QR code or entering the server URL, port, and unique identifiers (e.g., device or organization-specific credentials).
- Self-Enrollment: Self-enrollment is user-driven, allowing employees to enroll their own devices by accessing an MDM-provided self-service portal or enrollment link. Upon entering their credentials, users are guided through an automated process to install the MDM client and register their devices.
- Invite Enrollment: Invite enrollment involves sending users an invitation email or SMS containing a unique enrollment link or instructions. The invitation often carries pre-configured profiles, making it suitable for users who need additional guidance or are deploying multiple devices remotely.
- Token Enrollment: The MDM server generates a token as an identifier for each device to enroll. IT administrators need to distribute the token to devices, and device users complete the registration process by entering or scanning the token.
- NFC Enrollment: NFC enrollment uses Near Field Communication to transfer MDM configuration details. An administrator’s NFC-enabled device containing the enrollment profile is tapped to the target device. Configuration files, including server URLs and authentication details, are transmitted wirelessly.
- ADB Enrollment: Android Debug Bridge (ADB) enrollment is used for devices without NFC or QR code scanning capabilities. The device is connected via USB to a computer running ADB commands, which push the MDM client and Device Owner configurations directly to the device. It requires enabling developer options and USB debugging on the target device and is frequently used for rugged or specialized devices.
Installation of MDM Control Application
Manual enrollment typically involves the installation of an MDM agent or profile on the device:
- Android: Users download and install the MDM agent APK, either from the Google Play Store or via direct download, and follow prompts to complete enrollment.
- iOS/iPadOS: Users receive an enrollment link or email, which directs them to install a configuration profile that sets up the MDM controls.
- Windows: Users add a work or school account in system settings, which triggers the installation of necessary MDM policies and applications.
- macOS: Users install a configuration profile provided by the MDM administrator, establishing the management framework on the device.
Understanding these requirements ensures that devices are prepared for enrollment, facilitating a smoother integration into the organization's MDM ecosystem.
User Interactions
Manual enrollment isn’t a one-click affair—it calls for a bit of teamwork from users. Users are required to download the MDM app onto the device and go through the installation process. Once that’s done, they’ll need to grant permissions.
These permissions might sound familiar: enabling device administrator access for enforcing policies like remote lock or data wipe, activating accessibility features for advanced controls like kiosk mode, and turning on location services for real-time tracking. Some systems also require usage access permissions to monitor app compliance.
3Automated Enrollment Explained
Automated enrollment is particularly useful in large-scale rollouts of corporate-owned devices, where consistency is non-negotiable. From installing MDM app, configure security policies to deploying apps and network configurations, everything happens automatically, reducing both setup time and potential errors. The result is that devices are fully operational and secure right out of the box.
- Zero-touch Enrollment: (requires Android 8.0 or higher) Zero-touch enrollment is a streamlined process designed for Android devices, typically running Android 8.0 or higher. Devices purchased through authorized resellers are pre-registered in an organization's Zero-touch portal. During setup, the device connects to the portal, automatically applies the pre-assigned MDM configuration, and apply necessary policies.
- Apple Device Enrollment Program (DEP): (supports devices running iOS 13, iPadOS 13, or macOS 11 and above) Apple’s DEP, now part of Apple Business Manager (ABM), simplifies enrollment for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS devices. Devices purchased from Apple or authorized resellers are automatically linked to the organization’s ABM account.
- Samsung Knox Mobile Enrollment: (works on Samsung Galaxy devices with Knox 2.5 or later) Samsung Knox enrollment streamlines setup for corporate-owned Samsung devices. Organizations register devices through the Knox portal, associating them with an MDM system. When the device powers on and connects to the internet, it retrieves its configuration, installs the MDM profile, and applies policies.
- Windows Autopilot: (requires Windows 10 (version 1709 or later) or Windows 11) Windows Autopilot is a deployment solution for Windows 10 and 11 devices. It allows organizations to predefine device configurations, policies, and application installations through Azure Active Directory. Devices purchased from authorized resellers or pre-registered in the Autopilot portal automatically retrieve their profiles during initial setup.
- Google Workspace Enrollment: (supports Chrome OS devices and Android 8.0+) Google Workspace enrollment integrates Chrome OS and Android devices into the organization's MDM system. Devices linked to a Google Workspace account automatically install the MDM profile upon setup.
Automated enrollment has stricter device requirements compared to manual methods:
New Device/Factory Reset: Automated enrollment is typically available only for new devices or devices that have been factory reset.
Purchase from Authorized Dealers: Automated enrollment methods often require devices to be bought from approved resellers to ensure they are pre-registered. For instance:
- Apple DEP mandates purchases through Apple or authorized resellers.
- Zero-touch enrollment works only with resellers integrated into Google’s program.
- Windows Autopilot devices must be pre-provisioned by the reseller or IT admin.
User Interactions
Although automated enrollment reduces user involvement, it doesn’t entirely eliminate it. Users typically have fewer steps to complete compared to manual enrollment. They are usually required to:
Power on the device and connect it to a network during the setup process.
Authenticate with their credentials, such as a Google Workspace account or corporate credentials for Azure Active Directory.
Confirm basic prompts, such as accepting terms of service or completing multi-factor authentication, depending on organizational policies.
Automated enrollment significantly simplifies the process so that devices are ready to go with minimal user effort while maintaining security and compliance.
4Device Requirements
Manual device enrollment offers broad compatibility across various operating systems, making it a versatile choice for organizations managing older device fleets.
In contrast, automated device enrollment streamlines the process but relies on recent technology and therefore supports newer devices.
Specific requirements and supported methods can vary based on the device's operating system. Below is a detailed overview:
Operating System Compatibility
- Manual Enrollment: Supports devices running Android 4.0 and above. Users can manually install the MDM agent and configure settings.
- Automated Enrollment: Typically requires Android 7.0 or higher to utilize methods like Zero-Touch Enrollment or QR code provisioning.
- Manual Enrollment: Compatible with devices running iOS 13 or later. Users can enroll through a web portal or by installing an MDM profile.
- Automated Enrollment: Requires devices to be enrolled via Apple School Manager or Apple Business Manager, with supervision enforced on macOS devices running macOS 11 or later.
- Manual Enrollment: Supported on Windows 10 and Windows 11. Users can navigate to "Settings" > "Accounts" > "Access work or school" to connect to the MDM server.
- Automated Enrollment: Requires Windows 10 version 1709 or later and Azure Active Directory integration for features like automatic MDM enrollment.
- Manual Enrollment: Compatible with macOS 11 Big Sur and later versions. Users can install MDM profiles manually.
- Automated Enrollment: Utilizes Apple Business Manager or Apple School Manager for devices running macOS 11 or later, with supervision enforced during enrollment.
Android Devices:
iOS/iPadOS Devices:
Windows Devices:
macOS Devices:
Supported Enrollment Methods of Different OS
- Manual Methods: Installation of MDM agent via APK, configuration through device settings.
- Automated Methods: Zero-Touch Enrollment, QR Code Provisioning, NFC Bump, requiring higher OS versions and specific hardware capabilities.
- Manual Methods: User-initiated enrollment through Safari or email invitation to install MDM profiles.
- Automated Methods: Device Enrollment Program (DEP) via Apple School Manager or Apple Business Manager, requiring device supervision.
- Manual Methods: User navigates through system settings to add a work or school account, initiating MDM enrollment.
- Automated Methods: Group Policy configurations and Windows Autopilot, requiring integration with Azure Active Directory.
- Manual Methods: Installation of MDM profiles through user-initiated processes.
- Automated Methods: Enrollment via Apple Business Manager or Apple School Manager with supervision enforced.
Android:
iOS/iPadOS:
Windows:
macOS:
Network Connection Requirements
A stable internet connection is essential for both manual and automated enrollment methods. Devices must be able to communicate with the MDM server to download profiles, policies, and applications.
For automated enrollment, devices often need access to specific network endpoints and may require additional configurations, such as VPNs or proxy settings, to foster communication during the enrollment process.
5Conclusion
Automating device enrollment can't be overstated for organizations that want to streamline operations and maintain control over their devices. While manual enrollment offers broad compatibility for smaller deployments, automated enrollment excels in efficiency and scalability for larger fleets.
Whichever method you choose, understanding it, its device requirements, and the user interactions involved, can help your business select the right approach for their needs.
Whether you need flexible manual options or seamless automated processes, AirDroid delivers simple yet robust solutions tailored to your organization. Discover how AirDroid Business can optimize your device management today!
Related Links:
- https://www.airdroid.com/mdm/automated-device-enrollment/
- https://www.airdroid.com/mdm/what-is-zero-touch-enrollment/
- https://www.airdroid.com/mdm/mdm-enrollment/
- https://www.airdroid.com/mdm/knox-enrollment-service/
- https://www.airdroid.com/mdm/enroll-device-with-afw-setup/
- https://www.airdroid.com/mdm/qr-code-enrollment/
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