How can your IT department efficiently deploy and manage dozens or hundreds of Apple devices without drowning in routine tasks?
And how do you ensure that every device is safe, properly set up and ready to work from the first time it is switched on?
The answer is a modern approach to Apple device management based on automation using Apple cloud services, managed Apple accounts, MDM (Mobile Device Management) and proper setup using standards and best-practice procedures.
Apple Business Manager and managed Apple accounts: the foundation of any business strategy
Apple Business Manager (ABM) is a free cloud service that enables:
- automate the registration of devices into MDM out of the box by the user (“zero-touch deployment”),
- centrally purchase apps from the App Store and use MDM to manage their installation and licensing,
- Create managed Apple accounts and access Apple services under your corporate identity.
Practical tips:
- Enterprise devices: by being assigned to ABM by an authorized reseller, the device can be automatically enrolled into MDM out of the box and then the necessary applications, profiles, certificates and security policies are automatically installed. Within minutes it will be ready to work safely.
- BYOD: When combined with Apple accounts managed by the company, it’s possible to keep work and personal strictly separate. In this mode, high security of corporate data can be ensured without compromising user privacy.
Apple-centric MDM vs all platforms under one roof
If you don’t only use Apple products in your company, but also manage other platforms such as Android or Windows, you may want to consider whether to get a dedicated MDM system for Apple device management or use a universal solution such as UEM (Unified Endpoint Management).
Apple-centric solutions (Jamf, Mosyle):
- are narrowly focused and optimized for Apple devices,
- offers advanced features, deeper integration and faster support for new operating systems
- the downside is additional licensing costs and added complexity in terms of administration in a separate console, maintenance and integrations
UEM solutions (Intune, Workspace ONE, Ivanti):
- support management of all types of devices in the company
- enable consistent management from one central location
- the downside is often slower support for new functionality or the absence of some advanced features
The choice between an Apple-centric solution and UEM depends on the specific needs of your organisation and your strategy for the future. If you manage Apple devices exclusively or are looking for deep integration, advanced security features, and a high emphasis on user experience, an Apple-centric solution may be a better fit. On the other hand, if you have a diverse IT environment, need a unified approach to managing all devices, and your management and security needs are at the level of basic profiles and configurations, UEM may be a better choice.
Your budget also plays a big role in your choice – Jamf is a cutting-edge solution offering a wide range of functionality used by the largest companies in the world. Mosyle, on the other hand, targets smaller customers and offers excellent value for money.
Key principles for effective Apple device management
a) Zero-touch deployment
Using Apple Business Manager and MDM, you can achieve a situation where a user gets a new MacBook or iPhone, logs into Wi-Fi, and the device sets itself up according to company policies. This saves dozens of hours of work for the IT department.
b) Self Service portals
MDM systems offer self-service applications or portals that allow users to install approved applications on their own without having to contact the helpdesk – and in complete security.
c) Automation of security policies
Via MDM it is easy to set up:
- password complexity and automatic screen locking when idle
- disk encryption (FileVault 2) with recovery key transfer to MDM,
- built-in firewall
- built-in protection against malicious code execution (Gatekeeper)
- operating system and application updates
d) Compliance and protection monitoring
MDM systems continuously check whether devices are in compliance with company rules (compliance) and allow immediate response to deviations or suspicious activities.
Integration strategy with the corporate ecosystem
Modern businesses don’t use Apple devices in isolation – so they often need to be connected to other corporate systems and security products. Typically, this involves integration with:
- Microsoft Active Directory, Entra ID, or another identity provider such as Okta – for identity, access, and single sign-on (SSO) management,
- PKI infrastructure – to automate the delivery of client certificates for authentication of LAN (802.1x) or VPN connections
- Extended Detection and Response (XDR) – extends built-in protection with comprehensive protection against phishing and network attacks, integration into SOC/SecOps
- DLP tools – to protect data from leakage.
With broad standards support, macOS devices can integrate well in complex hybrid IT environments.
How do I ensure a smooth transition to professional Apple device management?
Designing management for different device ownership scenarios, deploying MDM solutions, integrating with enterprise systems and ensuring compliance with security standards is not a one-off task, but a strategic process. An experienced partner can help you avoid dead ends – from technical preparation, to setting up Apple Business Manager, to creating optimal security policies and integrating with on-premises applications or cloud services like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace.
A well-designed Apple device management architecture ensures a high level of security, increases user autonomy and productivity, simplifies day-to-day operations, and saves time and money.
Summary: Why not delay the digitization of Apple device management?
- Speed of deployment: a new device can be ready in minutes, without IT intervention.
- Security: protect corporate data and user identities from the very first launch.
- Remote management and monitoring: no more station traversal and manual configuration.
- Cost savings: less manual work, less pressure on the helpdesk, more user autonomy and productivity.
Do you want a demonstration or testing of an MDM solution? Are you hesitating between “Apple-centric” MDM (Jamf, Mosyle) and universal UEM for all platforms (Intune, Workspace ONE, Ivanti)? We are happy to help.
