Why Mobile Device Management (MDM) is important for enrollment programmes
MDM is essential when it comes to the secure management of mobile devices. It enables IT departments to centrally control devices, enforce security policies and manage applications. Enrollment programmes such as Apple Automated Device Enrollment (ADE, formerly DEP), Android Zero-Touch and Samsung Knox Mobile Enrollment (KME) ensure that devices are automatically integrated into the company’s MDM system from the moment they are switched on for the first time. This ensures efficient and secure deployment – particularly important for employees working from home, who often have to set up their devices without direct contact with the IT department.
What are enrollment programmes?
Enrollment programmes automate the deployment and configuration of mobile devices. They enable devices to be preconfigured before they are switched on for the first time and integrated directly into the company network. This reduces manual effort, minimises errors and increases security. However, it is crucial to note that an enrollment programme can only be fully effective in conjunction with an MDM. This is because the MDM ensures that configurations are managed centrally and that security policies are adhered to.
Apple Automated Device Enrolment (ADE)
Apple Automated Device Enrolment (ADE), part of the Apple Business Manager, allows companies to automatically integrate iPhones, iPads, and Macs into their MDM system. As soon as the device is switched on and connected to the internet, the MDM takes over configuration – completely without user intervention.
Requirements:
- Registration of your company with Apple Business Manager
- A compatible MDM solution
- Purchase of devices from authorised Apple resellers
Benefits:
- Automatic MDM Enrolment: Every device deployed through ADE is integrated into the MDM without manual steps.
- Preconfigured Profiles: IT departments can create device profiles in the MDM system in advance and apply them automatically to new devices. This ensures security policies, VPN access, or corporate apps are set up immediately.
- MDM Control: Administrators can remotely lock, monitor, or wipe devices if they are lost or stolen.
Enrolling existing devices into ADE is usually possible afterwards.
Apple ADE streamlines device provisioning by minimising set-up effort. However, it is the MDM that provides true control over devices and ensures consistent enforcement of company policies.
Android Zero-Touch Enrolment
Android Zero-Touch Enrolment is Google’s native solution for seamless corporate Android device provisioning. Similar to Apple ADE, devices can be preconfigured to automatically enrol into the company’s MDM system straight out of the box.
Requirements:
- Zero-Touch-enabled Android devices
- Company account in the Zero-Touch portal (initially created by the device reseller)
- An MDM solution for device management
Benefits:
- Fast Deployment: As soon as the device is switched on and connected to the internet, the MDM automatically configures all required settings, security policies, and apps.
- No Manual Set-Up Needed: Employees do not need to handle device configuration, as everything is centrally managed through the MDM.
- Security: Centralised MDM management ensures devices always meet the latest security standards and that corporate policies are automatically enforced.
As with Apple ADE, the MDM remains the cornerstone. While Zero-Touch can automate initial configuration, ongoing compliance, security enforcement, and device lifecycle management require continuous MDM oversight.
Samsung Knox Mobile Enrolment (KME)
Samsung Knox not only offers powerful security features but also its own automated provisioning solution: Knox Mobile Enrolment (KME). Samsung Knox is a dedicated security framework for Samsung devices, providing deep security integration. Combined with an MDM, it delivers a comprehensive solution for secure corporate device management.
Requirements:
- Samsung Knox-compatible devices
- Company registration in the Samsung Knox portal
- An MDM solution for device management
Benefits:
- Automatic MDM Enrolment: Like Apple ADE and Android Zero-Touch, new devices are automatically registered in the MDM upon activation.
- Strong Security Integration: Knox’s advanced security features, such as container technology, can be managed directly via the MDM for an extra layer of protection.
- MDM-Driven Management: Companies can centrally configure and enforce specific policies, security requirements, and apps across all Samsung devices.
Samsung Knox extends standard enrolment programmes by adding advanced security mechanisms, controlled and managed through MDM.
Overview of Enrolment Programmes
| Programme | Apple Automated Device Enrollment (ADE) | Samsung KNOX Mobile Enrollment (KME) | Android Zero-Touch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supported OS | iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS | Android, but only Samsung | Android |
| Devices | Paid, new devices (depending on reseller) | Paid, new devices (depending on reseller) | Paid, new devices (depending on reseller) |
| Enterprise mode with advanced permissions | Yes („Supervised“) | – | – |
| Existing Devices Enrolment | Yes | Yes | No |
| Requires Factory Reset | Yes | Yes | – |
| Automated Rollout for New Devices | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Multiple Resellers Possible | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Visit provider | Visit provider | Visit provider |
The Central Role of Mobile Device Management (MDM)
MDM is the foundation of efficient and secure device management. While enrolment programmes provide simple, automated provisioning, without an MDM companies cannot enforce security, apply compliance requirements, or customise configurations.
Key Advantages of MDM:
- Centralised Management
All devices can be controlled from one platform. This enables policy enforcement, app deployment, and configuration management – regardless of location. - Security & Compliance
MDM ensures all devices meet corporate security standards, such as password policies, encryption, timely updates, and GDPR compliance. Crucially, MDM enables a strict separation of corporate and private data using secure containers, safeguarding employee privacy while protecting business data. - Remote Control & Monitoring
Lost or stolen devices can be remotely locked or wiped. Activity monitoring provides an additional security layer. - Automated Processes
MDM automates ADE, Zero-Touch, and Knox KME rollouts. Devices arrive preconfigured, saving IT teams from manual setup.
Conclusion: Enrolment Programmes Unlock Full Potential with MD
Enrolment programmes such as Apple ADE, Android Zero-Touch, and Samsung Knox KME provide businesses with streamlined and efficient device provisioning. The real value, however, lies in their integration with an MDM.
An MDM not only ensures rapid setup but also guarantees compliance, security, and ongoing management. Without MDM, mobile device operations would become complex and insecure. Only with MDM can companies fully leverage the benefits of enrolment programmes and establish a secure, scalable mobile ecosystem.
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