4 Steps to Prepare for Unified Endpoint Management
Most IT leaders understand the benefits of tools. They see that unified endpoint management can streamline management across different device types and allow push-based and instant delivery of policies and updates. UEM can lead to time savings that accelerate gains in other parts of the enterprise.
But these IT leaders often say they’re simply not ready to implement UEM — and they’re right. While UEM is clearly the future of device management — and it has significant benefits to offer today — organizations must take certain steps within their existing IT environments to take full advantage of the model. Here are four things organizations should do to get ready for UEM.
1. Move to a Modern Operating System
The first step to prepare for UEM is to adopt a recent operating system, such as Windows 10 and the latest versions of macOS, iOS, Android and Chrome OS. These systems allow applications to be pushed out centrally.
Without this capability, an IT department must touch every device running in its environment to manage them. Embracing modern operating systems is the first step for UEM capabilities.
2. Embrace Cloud Identity and Access Management
Many organizations, especially those that haven’t yet made significant strides with cloud software, still use on-premises Active Directory. On-premises identity and access management tools don’t authenticate well against cloud services and aren’t a great fit for UEM solutions. By embracing cloud IAM tools, companies make their directories more dynamic and make it easier for users to request access to cloud-based resources.
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3. Adopt CASBs to Help with Device Security
Some organizations consider security a factor that prevents them from moving to a UEM model, often because they approach security at the level of anti-virus tools without embracing next-generation solutions.
Agencies should consider a cloud access security broker. A CASB works hand in hand with a UEM solution as the UEM tool validates users’ identities and pulls applications from the cloud.
4. Use Automated Device Enrollment to Streamline Provisioning
By embracing automated, zero-touch device enrollment programs, such as the Apple Device Enrollment Program or Windows Autopilot, agencies can skip individually provisioning devices. Automated device enrollment delivers devices ready to instantly connect to UEM tools.
