For several years, mobile device management (MDM) solutions have been touted as the best way to protect a business’ mobile devices. MDM solutions are software programs that enable IT administrators to push security updates onto mobile devices, remotely wipe a device, and ensure that a device complies with security policies. Although MDM solutions haven’t been on the market for very long, they’re already running the risk of becoming outmoded. Read on to learn why an MDM solution might not be enough to protect your corporate devices.
Why an MDM Solution Alone Isn’t Enough
The purpose of MDM solutions is to safeguard devices. Devices are important – no one is denying that. However, when you only focus on protecting devices, you lose sight of other elements that endanger enterprise digital security.
What else is critical to security? There are two things: applications and content. Applications enable employees to collaborate and communicate quickly and effectively. They can also conceal viruses and other threats which could wreak havoc on your network. Mobile application management (MAM) solutions provide IT administrators with control over apps. They can place apps on whitelists or blacklists and decide which apps should be allowed in the corporate app store.
What does content have to do with security? Like applications, content management systems or repositories store valuable business data. You don’t want someone who isn’t authorized to be viewing confidential information. A mobile content management (MCM) solution provides secure access to content repositories such as SharePoint as well as the ability to share files safely.
Enterprise Mobility Management: A Better Security Solution
Some businesses are beginning to realize that their information should be protected to the same extent their devices are. They’re beginning to turn to vendors for enterprise mobility management (EMM) solutions.
EMM solutions refer to technology that combines MDM, MAM, and MCM. They provide more complete protection for devices as well as data.
Which EMM Solution Is Right for My Company?
Vendors also understand that EMM solutions are becoming an important product to offer business customers. There’s no shortage of them on the market today. With that in mind, how do you find the one that’s best for your firm?
To determine which EMM solution you should select, you must carefully evaluate your needs. Ask yourself which devices you should be concerned with – those belonging to employees, customers, contractors, or business partners? Furthermore, what types of devices do you need to support? Bear in mind that what you answer now might not hold true in a few years. You want a solution that will grow with you, not keep you locked in to a device or platform.
Also, don’t limit yourself to mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Wearable devices, such as smart glasses and smart watches, could become a fixture in the enterprise. They will also need to be secured.
User experience matters, too. Security tools become meaningless if they hinder performance. Strike a balance between a great user experience and protecting your corporation’s data.
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