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

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

MDM software offers centralized management, strengthens data security and enhances 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 organizations. 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 (MDM)

What is MDM software?

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

The main functionalities of an MDM include :

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

These tools ensure that devices comply with corporate policies and are protected against 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 optimize 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 company 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?
• Which operating systems do you need to support?
• What are your security and compliance priorities?

Analyze the features on offer

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

• Device configuration and management: easy deployment and parameter management.
• 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,
• customization options,
• and simple navigation.

Check compatibility and integration

Make sure the MDM software is compatible with your existing systems and can easily integrate 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 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 demo or trial period to test the solution in your environment. This will enable 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 assets. Compatible with macOS, Windows and Linux, Fleet offers an all-in-one platform for centralized control and automation of IT tasks.

Key features

• Centralized management with a single interface to manage 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: connection with HR platforms to simplify onboarding and offboarding of employees and management of their IT equipment.

2. GoTo Resolve

Overview

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 secure, centralized management of smartphones, tablets and computers.
• Integrated helpdesk: ticket management system with integrated remote support and report analysis.

3. Hexnode

Overview

Hexnode is a cloud-based mobile device management (MDM) solution designed to simplify device management in businesses of all sizes. It offers unified management for various platforms, including iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS, guaranteeing 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 centralized security and management of mobile devices. Used by companies 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 registration with OTA (over-the-air) device configuration and management.

5. Jamf Pro

Introducing

Jamf Pro is an MDM solution dedicated to 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 behavior and enforcement of security policies.
• Identity integration with identity management and account provisioning.
• Out-of-the-box 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 centralized management via a user-friendly interface. What's more, ManageEngine Endpoint Central specializes in IT asset management in general.

Key features

• Comprehensive 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, license control.
• Remote support: with real-time device monitoring and troubleshooting.
• Data segregation: containerization 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 the enterprise. Aimed at IT professionals in SMEs and mid-sized companies, it covers various sectors such as healthcare, finance, industry, retail and MSPs. Thanks to its intuitive interface and centralized management, NinjaOne gives you effective control over your 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.
• Centralized management with complete endpoint visibility and unified control of smartphones, tablets and other devices from a single console, as well as a comprehensive 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 offering centralized, 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: with device locking on specific applications for dedicated uses.
• Remote support: real-time device troubleshooting 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 against advanced threats. Used by businesses of all sizes, this solution 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 centralized security and management of smartphones and tablets.
• Application control with application management and restriction to prevent risks.
• Data security: encryption and data loss prevention.
• Centralized management: a unified interface for managing endpoint and mobile device security.

10. Tehtris

Overview

Tehtris is an advanced cybersecurity solution offering mobile device management tools to protect businesses against cyberthreats. Specializing in automated defense, Tehtris offers proactive, integrated security for mobile devices.

Key features

• Threat detection and response: behavioral analysis and automatic remediation of cyberattacks.
• 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.
• Easy deployment thanks to rapid installation and centralized 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 optimize IT operations while ensuring enhanced security and a seamless user experience.

Key features

• Unified management: by centralizing device and application management 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 catalog and SSO access.
• IT automation: orchestrate complex IT tasks with a low/no-code platform.
• User experience with immediate access to applications, self-service support and touchless onboarding.

6 benefits of mobile device management solutions

Enhanced security

MDM software helps protect sensitive data with features such as:

• encryption,
• multi-factor authentication,
• and remote wiping in the event of device loss or theft.

Centralized management

With an MDM solution, IT administrators can manage and configure all devices from a single console, facilitating the deployment of security policies and applications.

Enhanced productivity

MDMs ensure that devices are always up to date and operational, reducing downtime 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 offer real-time tracking of device status and location, enabling:

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

See all software Mobile Device Management (MDM)

Convinced by MDM software?

Mobile device management (MDM) has become a must for modern businesses seeking to :

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

The tools presented here offer a variety of functionalities to meet specific business needs.

By integrating the right MDM solution, companies can not only protect their digital assets, but also optimize their IT operations. Choosing the right solution therefore depends on the specific needs of each organization, but the benefits in terms of security, centralized 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! ✨