Windows MDM Guide & 6 Best MDM Solutions for Windows
Part 1: The Severity Of Computer Security and Windows Device Management
Computers are essential for keeping private data safe, linking us to our bank accounts, and protecting our online identities. But cyber threats are always changing, so we need strong security to keep our info and devices safe.
In 2022, the Identity Theft Resource Centre (ITRC) reported a record 1,800 data breaches in the US, compromising over 22 billion records. Breaches can cause financial losses, identity theft, and reputational damage for individuals and corporations.
Also, malware and ransomware can steal data, alter files, disrupt operations, and disable devices. Malware includes viruses, Trojan horses, and spyware. Ransomware encrypts files in the user's PC and prevents access until a ransom is paid.
Additionally, the losses due to malware and ransomware exceeded $6 billion in 2021, according to the FBI's IC3. Therefore, Windows MDM is used by all kinds of corporations and businesses to prevent economic loss and user data.
The Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) market, which includes Windows MDM, is projected to grow to $15.4 billion by 2024. This shows that more people are realising how important it is to manage devices centrally and keep them safe.
Windows MDM is one of the most important parts of a strong security plan. To make a stronger defense against online threats, this plan should also include endpoint protection software, strong passwords, and multi-factor authentication (MFA).
Part 2: What Is MDM In Windows?
Windows MDM means Windows Mobile Device Management. This is meant to help businesses keep an eye on and protect Windows devices, especially when they are being used for work. There are multiple other uses as well.
IT professionals in major corporations can use Windows MDM to remotely manage and set up Windows devices to follow company security rules, choose who can access certain apps, data, and resources, and protect users' privacy on their own devices.
If you are a small business owner that hires remote workers, you can use it to ensure secure work, manage devices for remote workforces, and accommodate hybrid workforces where employees switch between office and remote work scenarios.
Additionally, it also helps to find and stop threats before they can harm devices by including built-in threat protection features such as antivirus checking and intrusion detection. It reduces IT costs, encourages employee productivity, and allows smartphones and tablets.
Part 3: 5 Best Windows MDM Solutions
The effective administration of Windows devices has become critical for companies and organizations globally in the continually changing world of digital technology. Windows MDM solutions are essential for improved security, smooth operations, and efficient device management procedures. They are becoming vital as the number of sectors depending on Windows-based devices rapidly increases.
Among the multitude of Windows MDM software options on the market, a few stand out due to their popularity, dependability, and diversity. In this in-depth analysis, we examine the five best MDMs for Windows, which have won praise for their outstanding features and performance.
1Microsoft Intune
Microsoft Intune is a cloud-based endpoint management system. It streamlines app and device management across a range of devices, including desktop PCs, virtual endpoints, as well as mobile devices. It also offers full control of user access to corporate resources.
This MDM solution for Windows also supports Android, iOS, Linux Ubuntu Desktop, macOS, and client devices.
Key Features
- Intune enables cross-device management and secure resource access, regardless of ownership.
- It simplifies app handling, from deployment to updates, supporting various app types and protection policies.
- Intune automates policy deployment for apps, security, and more, streamlining management tasks.
- Self-service features in the Company Portal app empower users to manage tasks independently, reducing reliance on IT support.
- It integrates seamlessly with security services like Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, bolstering endpoint security with real-time threat analysis and automated responses.
Pricing
- Microsoft Intune Plan 1:Priced at $8.00, it includes subscriptions to Microsoft 365 E3, E5, F1, and F3, Enterprise Mobility + Security E3 and E5, and Business Premium plans.
- Microsoft Intune Plan 2: Available as an add-on to Microsoft Intune Plan 1, it offers advanced endpoint management capabilities at $4.00.
- Microsoft Intune Suite:Priced at $10.00, it serves as an add-on to Microsoft Intune Plan 1, unifying advanced endpoint management and security solutions.
G2 Rating
Microsoft Intune has earned a commendable 4.5-star rating from G2.
User Reviews
Possible Problems Encountered During Use
- Intune policy reports may show multiple records for a single device, causing confusion in tracking compliance.
- Users may face "pending" status inaccuracies, affecting decision-making and resource allocation.
- Inconsistent data between report lists and summary charts could hinder accurate assessment of device management performance.
2Lenovo Device Manager
Lenovo Device Manager (LDM) is a versatile endpoint and app management solution designed for Lenovo Windows or Android devices. It offers flexibility as well as scalability to meet the evolving needs of organizations amidst increasing device demand and cloud migration.
This MDM software for Windows allows for easy customization of features and integration of partner services through a user-friendly wizard, empowering IT managers and analysts to efficiently manage device health and application performance, thus enhancing the overall employee experience.
Key Features
- Support for Intel vPro devices ensures that corporate policies are maintained effectively.
- Administrators have the capability to establish and adjust policies across the organization or on individual devices to ensure compliance throughout the network.
- Device optimization relies on the utilization of device health data and alerts to maintain peak performance across the fleet.
- Deployment insights provide valuable information regarding device connectivity, hardware changes, battery status, storage, and driver updates, facilitating informed decision-making.
- Direct support for Intel vPro devices enhances policy compliance through remote BIOS and Desktop Management tools.
Pricing
Pricing for Lenovo Device Manager is customized, and organizations interested in acquiring the solution can contact ldmsales@lenovocloudsoftware.com or call 919-874-3155 for personalized pricing details.
3Dell APEX Managed Device Service
Dell APEX Managed Device Service offers an all-inclusive subscription model aimed at alleviating the day-to-day support and management burdens associated with new Dell devices. Designed for scalability, this service is tailored to streamline device provisioning and management processes for Windows 10, iOS, iPad, and Android devices across various locations, including company sites, home offices, and remote setups. It is one of the best MDMs for Windows 10.
Key Features
- Efficiently configured Windows 10 PCs to meet customer specifications, ensuring rapid deployment and user productivity.
- Monitor device health, performance, and application usage remotely to identify and address issues promptly.
- Streamline device setup and updates transparently, minimizing disruptions and maximizing user efficiency.
- Leverage Microsoft Endpoint Manager's robust security functions to safeguard devices and prevent unauthorized access to company resources and data.
- Access highly skilled Dell technology experts 24/7 for hardware management, including device setup, software implementation, encryption, platform and device security, and hardware fixes. The MDM solutions for Windows also include accidental damage support and predictive issue detection, along with tech coaching for team members and IT insight reports.
Pricing
Dell APEX Managed Device Service is available as a month-to-month subscription at $70 per device, offering businesses flexibility in managing their IT expenses while ensuring comprehensive device management and support.
G2 Rating
Dell APEX Managed Device Service has also been awarded a 4.5-star rating from G2.
User Reviews
Possible Problems Encountered During Use
- Running the agent on the same host poses logistical challenges, potentially complicating deployment and management processes.
- Implementing email-based MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) alongside SaaS backup, which operates on a separate interface, may require careful integration to ensure seamless user experience and security efficacy. Additionally, discrepancies in the accuracy of the SaaS backup total storage graph can impact data management and decision-making processes.
4VMware Workspace ONE UEM
VMware Workspace ONE UEM offers a comprehensive cloud-native solution for Unified Endpoint Management (UEM), catering to the diverse needs of modern enterprises across various device types, including desktops, mobile devices, wearables, rugged devices, and IoT endpoints. This MDM for laptops is designed to optimize employee experience, enhance security, provide actionable insights, and enable automation, thereby streamlining IT operations and improving organizational efficiency.
Key Features
- Ensure a seamless end-user experience across devices while proactively addressing issues like OS crashes, app performance, and device health.
- Safeguards user data against security threats with conditional access and compliance policies, offering comprehensive protection for users, endpoints, apps, data, and networks.
- Obtain visibility into OS updates, patch rollout, app adoption, and device status through comprehensive data analysis, facilitating data-driven decision-making and IT optimization.
- Simplify device onboarding, app deployment, and desired state management by creating intricate workflows in a low-code environment with a canvas and drag-and-drop interface.
- Customize policies for different organizational levels, with the option to inherit or override settings from higher levels using a multi-tenant model.
Pricing
- Mobile Essentials: Includes mobile device management, secure mobile apps, and reporting/automation at $3.00/device or $5.40/user monthly.
- Desktop Essentials: Advanced desktop management, secure app access, and reporting/automation at $4.00/device or $7.20/user monthly.
- UEM Essentials: Unified endpoint management for mobile and desktop, secure app access, and unified reporting/automation at $5.25/device or $9.45/user monthly.
G2 Rating
G2 awarded Workspace ONE UEM a four-star rating.
User Reviews
Possible Problems Encountered During Use
- Lack of comprehensive documentation on device configurations and controls (IT Policy) can pose challenges during planning, integration, and audit processes.
- The initial learning curve may be frustrating, occasional app compatibility issues can lead to significant disruptions, and limited customization options may feel restrictive for some users.
5Atera RMM
Atera RMM is an AI-powered IT management platform that integrates Helpdesk and Ticketing with Remote Monitoring & Management (RMM) capabilities. Designed for IT professionals, This MDM for windows and MAC offers an all-in-one solution to streamline workflows, providing Remote Monitoring and Management, Remote Access, Helpdesk, Billing, and Reporting functionalities in a single comprehensive platform.
Key Features
- Customize RMM software for complete visibility and control of customer networks, enabling instant remote IT support.
- Streamline business operations with ticketing management and reporting capabilities for efficient service delivery.
- Leverage AI for improved efficiency, ticket management, and intelligent responses to streamline IT support processes.
- Automate patching for Windows, Mac, and software to ensure network security and eliminate vulnerabilities.
- Integrate with Splashtop and AnyDesk for instant, on-demand remote access and support, facilitating secure assistance for any device, anywhere, anytime.
Pricing
Atera RMM offers flexible pricing for both IT departments and MSPs. For IT departments, plans range from $149 to $199 per technician per month, while MSP plans range from $99 to $169 per technician per month. With a pay-per-technician model, users can manage unlimited devices without extra costs. Additionally, Atera provides IT automation features to streamline workflows. Contact sales for enterprise or superpower plans.
G2 Rating
Atera RMM has earned a commendable 4.5-star rating from G2.
User Reviews
Possible Problems Encountered During Use
- Slow website loading times are particularly noticeable on various devices.
- Some users find a portion of the UI to be annoying.
6AirDroid Business (Recommand)
AirDroid Business is a powerful MDM solution designed to simplify and enhance device management for businesses of all sizes. Here are some of its key features:
Key Features
- Device Enrollment: Easily enroll Windows devices into the management backend using a simple deployment code. Apply pre-configured templates, including policies and apps, during the enrollment process.
- App Management: Efficiently distribute, update, and manage applications across all enrolled devices to ensure consistency and compliance with company policies. This feature supports pushing MSI apps and configuring command-line options during installation. It also allows for the automatic reading of uploaded UWP app information to facilitate the deployment of UWP apps.
- Policy and Kiosk: Implement and enforce security policies and configure devices to operate in kiosk mode, restricting access to specific apps and features to enhance security and productivity.
● Policy: Set lock screen password rules, create app blacklists and whitelists, and configure basic function restrictions for Windows devices, such as camera, language, location services, network sharing, and browser configuration.
● Kiosk Mode: Supports both multi-app mode and single-app mode.
Pricing
- Basic: Offers essential MDM features suitable for small businesses and startups. Pricing starts at $12 per device/year.
- Standard: Includes advanced features for mid-sized businesses, providing a balance between features and cost-effectiveness. Pricing starts at $21 per device/year.
- Enterprise: A comprehensive MDM solution with advanced features and dedicated support, tailored for large organizations with complex needs. Pricing starts at $33 per device/year.
G2 Rating
AirDroid Business received a 4.8-star rating from G2, reflecting its reliability, user-friendly interface, and powerful feature set.
User Reviews
It helps me assist my staff when on the road to monitor their interviews, guide them, and correct them without anyone knowing I am there. Letting me staff look very professional. Most of all the high quality of the voice, video, tracking and various features. Never a flaw, no hiccups, and so easy to use at any time.
Part 4: Windows Mobile Device Management Features
Mobile Device Management (MDM) is a critical aspect of managing Windows devices within an organization. It allows IT administrators to efficiently control security policies, business applications, and device settings while respecting user privacy.
Let's see the key features of Windows MDM and their practical usage:
Device Enrollment
Device enrollment establishes a connection between the device and the management server. It is used in these peripheries:
● Corporate-Owned Devices: You can use Windows MDM to join devices to an Active Directory domain or a Microsoft Entra domain.
● Personally Owned Devices: Enrolling devices using a Microsoft Entra account.
● Autoenrollment: Automatically enroll devices into MDM during domain join or Microsoft Entra ID setup.
Configuration Management
Windows mdm is also used to configure device settings, policies, and profiles. The key usage aspects of MDM for configuration management are the following:
● Policy Enforcement: Set security policies (e.g., password requirements, encryption settings).
● Customization: Configure Wi-Fi, VPN, email, and app settings.
● Compliance Rules: Ensure devices adhere to organizational standards.
Application Management
Windows MDM is also used to deploy, update, and manage apps on devices.
● App Deployment: Push apps to devices (e.g., productivity apps, custom line-of-business apps).
● App Updates: Keep apps up-to-date.
● App Whitelisting/Blacklisting: Control which apps are allowed or blocked.
Security Management
Another notable Windows MDM use is to enhance device security. It can be utilized to protect multiple devices under one umbrella.
● Device Encryption: Enable BitLocker or other encryption methods.
● Antivirus and Malware Protection: Configure Windows Defender settings.
● Remote Wipe: Remotely wipe data from lost or stolen devices.
Inventory Management
Main MDM usage here is to track device inventory and monitor hardware/software details. Here is some explanation:
● Hardware Inventory: Collect information about devices (e.g., serial numbers, hardware specs).
● Software Inventory: Monitor installed applications.
● License Compliance: Ensure software licenses are valid.
Remote Control And Troubleshooting
You can also use Windows MDM to remotely diagnose and resolve device issues.
● Remote Assistance: Troubleshoot problems without physical access.
● Remote Desktop: Access devices for support or maintenance.
● Logs and Diagnostics: Analyze system logs and performance data.
Part 5: How Does Windows MDM Work?
As you can already guess from the various uses of Windows MDM an effective MDM ensures a balance between security and user productivity, making it essential for modern organizations.
But how does MDM work in the Windows system?
A management component built into Windows MDM that is used to talk to remote devices. The registration client and the management client are the two parts that make up this management component. Here are the details on them:
- Enrollment Client: This component enrolls and configures the device to communicate with the enterprise management server. It sets up the initial connection.
- Management Client: The management client periodically synchronizes with the management server. It checks for updates and applies the latest policies set by IT.
Communication with the enterprise management server takes place as the built-in management component communicates with the enterprise management server. That is how IT departments can manage the devices of the whole company.
Third-party MDM servers can also manage Windows devices using the MDM protocol. The built-in client can interact with a third-party server proxy that supports the necessary protocols.
Windows MDM Security Baseline is also very strong as Microsoft provides MDM security baselines similar to group policy security baselines. These baselines address security concerns for modern cloud-managed devices.
Key areas covered by Windows MDM policies include the following parts:
- Microsoft inbox security technologies (e.g., BitLocker, Windows Defender SmartScreen, Exploit Guard, Microsoft Defender Antivirus, Firewall).
- Setting credential requirements for passwords and PINs.
- Managing legacy technology with alternative solutions.
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