Top 11 MDM software: how do you choose the best mobile device management software?

In a world where teleworking and mobility have become the norm, mobile device management (MDM) is more crucial than ever. Businesses need to secure and effectively manage a variety of devices, from smartphones to tablets and laptops.

MDM software provides centralised management, strengthens data security and improves employee productivity.

But which tool should you choose? This article explores the best MDM software available on the market, to help IT managers, IT engineers and CIOs make the best choice for their organisations. And we tell you all about the benefits of these solutions, and how to choose the best one for you. 🔥

See all software Mobile Device Management

What is MDM software?

Mobile device management (MDM) software is an essential solution for securing, monitoring and managing mobile devices in business. It's a bit like the conductor of your smartphones, tablets and laptops, ensuring that everything works in harmony. ☀️

The main features of an MDM include :

• device configuration and management
• application of security policies
• real-time monitoring and inventory,
• and remote support and application management.

These tools ensure that devices are compliant with corporate policies and protected from threats, much like a digital bodyguard. 🙅

MDM is essential for protecting sensitive data and ensuring employee productivity. Its objectives are to :

• prevent data breaches
• maintain regulatory compliance
• and optimise the use of IT resources.

How do you choose the best mobile device management solution? 7 considerations

Identify your specific needs

To choose the best MDM software, start by assessing your specific needs. Every business has unique mobile device management requirements. Ask yourself the following questions:

• How many devices do you need to manage?
• What types of devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops) do you use?
• What operating systems do you need to support?
• What are your security and compliance priorities?

Analysing the functionality on offer

MDM solutions offer a wide range of functions. Make sure the solution you choose includes :

• Device configuration and management: easy to deploy and manage settings.
• Data security: robust security policies, encryption, and remote wiping. 🔐
• Tracking and inventory: real-time device tracking and detailed reporting.
• Remote support to troubleshoot and resolve problems remotely.
• Application management: distribution, updating and control of applications.

Consider ergonomics and user interface

An intuitive user interface can make it much easier for your IT team to adopt the software. Look for solutions with :

• clear dashboards
• customisation options
• and simple navigation.

Check compatibility and integration

Make sure the MDM software is compatible with your existing systems and can be easily integrated with your other IT tools and platforms, such as :

• Identity and access management (IAM) systems,
• or endpoint security solutions.

Evaluate support and training

Good customer support and training resources are essential for a successful implementation. Opt for a supplier that offers responsive technical support, as well as training and tutorials to help your team master the tool.

Consider costs

MDM solutions can vary considerably in terms of cost. Compare pricing models (per device, per user, annual subscription) and make sure the cost is justified by the features and level of service offered.

Try before you buy

Finally, ask for a demonstration or trial period to test the solution in your environment. This will allow you to check that it meets your needs and is easy for your team to use 😉

The 11 best MDM software

1. Fleet

Introducing

Fleet is a mobile device management solution designed to simplify the management and security of your IT estate. Compatible with macOS, Windows and Linux, Fleet offers an all-in-one platform for centralised control and automation of IT tasks.

Key features

• Centralised management with a single interface for managing your entire IT estate, including device configuration, allocation and inventory.
• Enhanced security with hard disk encryption, firewall activation and automatic updates.
• Automated deployment: Zero Touch Deployment to configure devices remotely as soon as you receive them.
• Remote support: device control for troubleshooting and security, even when working remotely.
• Integration with HR: connecting with HR platforms to simplify on-boarding and off-boarding of employees and management of their IT equipment.

2. GoTo Resolve

Presentation

GoTo Resolve is a complete device management and remote support solution designed for small and medium-sized businesses. It simplifies IT management with a combination of monitoring, mobile device management and technical support tools.

Key features

• Proactive monitoring with automatic problem detection for rapid intervention.
• IT automation of tasks without the need for scripts, for efficient management.
• Background access: with problem resolution without interrupting the end user.
• Mobile device management with centralised security and management of smartphones, tablets and computers.
• Integrated helpdesk: ticket management system with integrated remote support and report analysis.

3. Hexnode

Presentation

Hexnode is a cloud-based mobile device management (MDM) solution designed to simplify device management for businesses of all sizes. It offers unified management for various platforms, including iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS, ensuring greater flexibility and security.

Key features

• Cross-platform management: support for iOS, Android, Windows, macOS and tvOS.
• Advanced security with data encryption, password management and RGPD compliance.
• Zero Touch deployment that simplifies remote device registration and configuration.
• Kiosk mode that locks devices to one or more specific applications for dedicated uses.
• Enterprise integrations: compatible with Google Workspace, Microsoft AD, Okta and others.
• Tracking and geo-fencing: real-time device tracking and location-based management.
• Application management with remote application distribution, updating and control.

4. IBM Systems Middleware (MaaS360)

Overview

IBM MaaS360 is a mobile device management (MDM) solution designed to provide centralised security and management of mobile devices. Used by businesses of all sizes, MaaS360 helps maintain data security and manage devices efficiently.

Key features

• Cross-platform support: management of iOS, Android, Windows, macOS and Chrome OS devices.
• Mobile security with multi-factor authentication (MFA), threat detection and data encryption.
• Artificial intelligence with real-time analysis and proactive threat management.
• Application management: application distribution and updating, access control.
• Remote enrolment with OTA (over-the-air) device configuration and management.

5. Jamf Pro

Presentation

Jamf Pro is an MDM solution for the Apple ecosystem, designed to connect, manage and protect Apple devices remotely. Used by over 75,000 companies, including Salesforce and National Geographic, Jamf Pro makes it easy to manage iOS, macOS, iPadOS and tvOS devices.

Key features

• Zero-touch deployment with automatic configuration of devices as soon as they go live.
• Security management: antivirus protection, detection of suspicious behaviour and application of security policies.
• Identity integration with identity management and account provisioning.
• Immediate support with support for new Apple operating systems as soon as they are released.
• Automation: automated management of the entire device lifecycle.

6. ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus

Overview

ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus is a comprehensive mobile device management solution designed to improve employee productivity while ensuring the security of corporate data. It supports multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, Windows, and Chrome OS, offering centralised management via an easy-to-use interface. In addition, ManageEngine Endpoint Central specialises in IT asset management in general.

Key features

• Complete device management: single console for configuration, security and inventory management.
• Data security with strict policies, encryption and remote wiping in the event of loss or theft.
• Application management: application distribution and updating, licence control.
• Remote support: with real-time monitoring and troubleshooting of devices.
• Data separation: containerisation of business and personal data.

7. NinjaOne

Overview

NinjaOne is a mobile device management (MDM) solution that simplifies the management, troubleshooting and security of mobile devices in enterprises. Aimed at IT professionals in SMEs and mid-sized companies, it covers a range of sectors including healthcare, finance, manufacturing, retail and MSPs. Thanks to an intuitive interface and centralised management, NinjaOne enables them to effectively control their entire mobile fleet.

Key features

• Create and implement mobile strategies quickly and extensively, ensuring a consistent and familiar user experience.
• Consolidate tools, reducing training requirements and costs.
• Centralised management with full endpoint visibility and unified control of smartphones, tablets and other devices from a single console, as well as a complete asset inventory.
• Proactive security: high-quality data encryption, remote wiping and management of security settings.
• Remote support with real-time device access and troubleshooting.
• Geolocation with device tracking and geo-barriers to prevent loss.
• Kiosk mode: locking devices to specific applications for dedicated uses.

8. Scalefusion

Overview

Scalefusion is a mobile device management (MDM) solution that provides centralised, secure management of Android, iOS, Windows and macOS devices. Suitable for businesses of all sizes, Scalefusion ensures efficient management and enhanced security for business devices.

Key features

• Administrator activity logs: information on activities carried out by the administrator on the dashboard.
• Multi-OS management: with support for Android, iOS, Windows and macOS for unified management.
• Device security: data encryption, access restrictions and remote wiping.
• Kiosk mode: locking devices to specific applications for dedicated uses.
• Remote support: real-time troubleshooting of devices via remote control.
• Device tracking: geo-barriers and real-time device tracking for better management.

9. Sophos Endpoint Protection

Overview

Sophos Endpoint Protection is a comprehensive security solution designed to protect devices and data from advanced threats. Used by businesses of all sizes, it combines endpoint protection and mobile device management (MDM) capabilities to deliver enhanced security.

Key features

• Advanced threat protection: threat detection and response, protection against ransomware and malware.
• Mobile device management with centralised security and management of smartphones and tablets.
• Application control with application management and restriction to prevent risks.
• Data security: encryption and data loss prevention.
• Centralised management: unified interface for managing the security of terminals and mobile devices.

10. Tehtris

Presentation

Tehtris is an advanced cyber security solution offering mobile device management tools to protect businesses against cyber threats. Specialising in automated defence, Tehtris offers proactive and integrated security for mobile devices.

Key features

• Threat detection and response: behavioural analysis and automatic remediation of cyber attacks.
• Data protection: encryption, access management and data leakage prevention.
• Real-time monitoring with continuous tracking and anomaly alerts.
• Seamless integration: compatible with existing security solutions for enhanced protection.
• Simple deployment thanks to rapid installation and centralised device management.

11. Workspace ONE

Overview

Workspace ONE is a unified endpoint management (UEM) solution developed by VMware, enabling you to manage any device and application, anywhere. It is designed to optimise IT operations while providing enhanced security and a seamless user experience.

Key features

• Unified management: by centralising the management of devices and applications across all platforms.
• Zero Trust security: by implementing strict security policies with conditional access and automated patching.
• Application lifecycle: complete application management with a unified catalogue and SSO access.
• IT automation: orchestration of complex IT tasks with a low/no-code platform.
• User experience with immediate access to applications, self-service support and contactless onboarding.

6 benefits of mobile device management solutions

Increased security

MDM software helps protect sensitive data with features such as:

• encryption
• multi-factor authentication
• and remote wiping if devices are lost or stolen.

Centralised management

With an MDM solution, IT administrators can manage and configure all devices from a single console, making it easier to deploy security policies and applications.

Improved productivity

MDMs ensure that devices are always up to date and operational, reducing disruption and enabling employees to remain productive, whether in the office or remotely. 💯

Regulatory compliance

MDM solutions help maintain compliance with data security regulations, such as the RGPD, by enforcing consistent security policies.

Remote support

MDM tools enable remote troubleshooting and problem resolution, reducing resolution times and IT support costs.

Tracking and inventory

MDMs provide real-time monitoring of the status and location of devices, enabling:

• better inventory management
• and reduced risk of loss or theft.

See all software Mobile Device Management

Are you convinced by MDM software?

Mobile device management (MDM) has become essential for modern businesses looking to :

• secure,
• monitor,
• and effectively manage their mobile devices.

The tools on offer offer a range of functions to meet the specific needs of businesses.

By integrating the right MDM solution, businesses can not only protect their digital assets but also optimise their IT operations. Choosing the right solution therefore depends on the specific needs of each organisation, but the benefits in terms of security, centralised management and productivity are universal.

For any business looking to navigate today's digital landscape, adopting an MDM solution isn't just an option, it's a strategic necessity, so test the software, and choose yours! ✨