Mobile Device Management (MDM) lets an organisation configure, secure and update its devices from one place. If your team uses Macs and iPhones, the MDM you choose affects security, the effort of IT support and how quickly a new employee can start working. This guide lists what to check and which questions to ask before you decide.
What an MDM solution does
In general, an MDM solution lets administrators apply settings and security policies to devices, install and update apps, and lock or erase a device remotely if it is lost.
Start with your own requirements
- How many devices do you manage today, and how many in a year or two?
- Which devices and systems: Mac, iPhone, iPad, or a mix with other platforms?
- Are the devices owned by the company, or do people use their own (BYOD)? For company-owned devices, such as a MacBook lease, you can usually enforce stricter settings.
- Which security rules and regulations apply to your business, for example GDPR?
- Who will administer the system and give support to employees?
Key features to compare
- Enrolment. Can new devices be enrolled automatically, so employees receive them ready to use?
- Security. Remote lock and erase, passcode and encryption policies, and reports that show whether devices follow your rules.
- App management. Installing, updating and removing apps, and keeping track of licences.
- Integration. Does it work with the tools you already use, such as your identity provider or help desk system?
- Reporting. Can you see which devices are in use, which are outdated and what changed?
- Scalability and support. Will it still work when your fleet doubles, and what support is included?
Apple’s built-in option
In March 2026 Apple announced Apple Business. According to Apple, it is a free service from 15 April 2026 in the US and more than 200 countries and regions, and it includes built-in device management. It combines the capabilities of Apple Business Manager, Apple Business Essentials and Apple Business Connect. Apple describes Blueprints, which preconfigure device settings and apps, and zero-touch deployment for devices purchased through Apple or Apple Authorised Resellers. Some features vary by country or region.
Whether built-in management is enough for you or whether you need a separate MDM depends on your requirements. Compare it against the list above before you decide.
Costs to plan for
Look beyond the price per device. Consider setup and migration time, training for your IT team and employees, support, and any extra tools you need to connect.
Security and compliance
Ask where data is stored, how access is controlled and which audit information you can export. If you work in a regulated sector, involve your security or legal adviser early.
A simple way to decide
- Write down your requirements and weigh each one by importance.
- Score two or three options against that list.
- Test the favourite with a small pilot group before you roll it out.
- Check how you can leave: can you export your data and settings later?
Devices for your team with JUUZ.
JUUZ. offers Apple Workspace: Macs and iPhones to rent, lease or buy, delivered ready to work, centrally managed and supported 24/7, from €25 a month. Contact us to discuss which setup suits your team.
