RMM vs. MDM: What's the Difference?

As a business, you definitely want to manage, control, and safeguard your IT networks, systems, infrastructure, and all user devices in your enterprise infrastructure. This is where RMM and MDM solutions are coming in very handy. That said, the two technologies can be somewhat confusing. In fact, there are some overlaps between RMM and MDM. 

Well, if you are wondering what’s the difference between RMM and MDM, you are in the right place! This article will tell you everything you need to know about RMM vs. MDM. 

Part 1 : What is RMM?

For starters, RMM is simply an acronym for Remote Monitoring and Management. As the name suggests, this is the software specially designed to allow IT service providers to remotely monitor and manage IT assets like servers, routers, switches, computers, smartphones, and the entire IT infrastructure among others. The primary aim of RMM is to ensure that the IT systems are healthy and working effectively. Here are some key features of RMM:

● Real-time monitoring -This allows for monitoring system performance, device status, and network health.

● Alerts Management- This ensures that the admin/IT team receives alerts in case of issues on the respective systems.   

● Automation- RMM should allow automation of routine maintenance tasks such as software updates and file cleanups.

● Patch Management- Should be able to manage and install relevant security updates, monitor security patch status, and provide a log action for easy tracking.  

● Reporting- A good RMM should have the ability to generate customized reports that can easily be interpreted by the IT/administration.   

● Analytics- RMM should be able to analyze data and make informed decisions based on the prevailing conditions.  

Part 2 : Who Needs RMM?

RMM solutions are particularly best fit for any enterprise that needs to monitor and manage IT infrastructure remotely. A good example is Managed Service Providers (MSPs) which will often need to manage and monitor their clients' IT infrastructure remotely.

Businesses and organizations with geographically dispersed teams can also benefit from RMM solutions as they can allow relevant  IT teams to monitor and manage IT assets across locations. 

In other words, you should go for an RMM solution if you are looking to manage and monitor IT infrastructure remotely in a bid to improve efficiency, reduce downtimes, boost productivity, and improve your IT security posture.

Part 3 : What is MDM?

MDM (Mobile Device Management), on the other hand, is software that is used by the IT team/Administration to secure, automate, and regulate mobile devices for the security of their data and devices. 

Its primary aim is to help businesses or organizations prevent data leaks, malware attacks, unauthorized access, and misuse of devices, especially due to user behavior. 

With MDM, an IT admin can deploy security policies (that regulate the usage of devices) from a central dashboard to the respective devices for desired device restrictions. The main features of a MDM solution include: 

● Robust Security- This is perhaps the most critical feature of an MDM solution. It should provide extensive security measures such as data encryption, security configurations, and malware detection among others.

● Secure Access- An MDM solution should provide a framework for authorized access to device data and apps. When sensitive data is requested from the device, MDM should have access check controls to ensure that only authorized persons can access and fetch the data.  

● Remote Data Wiping- Remote wiping allows the admin/IT team to wipe data remotely from a mobile device. This is useful if the respective device is stolen to prevent sensitive data from landing in the wrong hands. 

● Integration- A good MDM should let you manage devices irrespective of their operating systems. It should support multiple devices not necessarily running on the same operating system. 

● BYOD Support- This allows the deployment of company policies on personal devices to protect the organizations’ data without limiting employee device usage flexibility.   

● Over-the-air distribution- A good MDM should be able to deliver updates, configurations, and settings wirelessly to the respective devices. 

● Device Troubleshooting- From its console, MDM can let you discover the problems on the end devices and fix them remotely without physically touching them.

Part 4 : Who Needs MDM?

MDM solutions are particularly beneficial for businesses that have a significant number of mobile devices used by employees. 

For example, you might have employees who frequently work remotely or are constantly on the move. In this case, you can greatly benefit from MDM solutions as you can be able to manage and secure all these mobile devices.

MDM solutions allow businesses to adopt and tap into Enterprise Mobility Management options like BYOD, CYOD, COPE, COBO, and the like. Businesses can allow the use of mobile devices for work purposes whilst ensuring data security and compliance with regulations.

Part 5 : Difference Between RMM & MDM

RMM and MDM tools share a lot in terms of functionalities. However, these two have some distinct differences. Let’s look at some of the key differences in the RMM vs MDM:

● RMM focuses more on the health and performance of the IT systems and infrastructure, while MDM is concerned with the security of enterprise mobile devices like tablets and smartphones.

● RMM is comprehensive as it manages IT infrastructure, network devices, and systems while MDM focuses on the end-user devices.  

● RMM launches scripts automatically based on warnings or triggers, while MDM deploys settings and configurations automatically based on policies. 

● RMM gives you performance data logs, while MDM gives you information regarding device and app usage.  

Part 6 : What Can MDM do While RMM Can't?

As aforementioned, there are clear differences between RMM and MDM. While RMM is a comprehensive solution, it is worth noting that there are a couple of things MDM can do that an RMM tool can’t. Some of them include: 

● BYOD- Bring your Own Device (BYOD) is a common trend in many workplaces because it allows employees to use their private devices to access the company’s data and applications. With MDM, you can selectively protect the company’s data and applications on an employee’s device, like a smartphone or tablet. This means the employee can freely use other apps on their device without limitations/restrictions.

● Remote Workforce- MDM allows enterprises to supervise their employees from a central console remotely.  

● Track Location- with MDM, the admin can track the exact GPS location of the enrolled device. This is beneficial, especially in transport and logistics, where location tracking is important for efficiency and security.  

● Automatic provision and deployment – MDM can deploy settings and configurations automatically across end devices without manual intervention.  

Summary

In a nutshell, RMM and MDM are closely related, albeit, they serve different purposes in the IT space. While you might be tempted to think you can use them interchangeably, but, it is worth noting that these solutions are designed for different user needs. Knowing the differences between RMM vs. MDM will help you choose the right solution for your organization. You can avoid making costly mistakes related to your IT infrastructure management and security!