Mobile device management (MDM) refers to the control of one or more mobile devices through various types of access control and monitoring technologies. This term is commonly related to enterprise use of mobile devices, where it is important for businesses to both allow for effective mobile device use, and protect sensitive data from unauthorized access.
Over time, mobile device management has advanced to include newer methods like remote server controls, more versatility in managing groups of diverse providers, and even software-as-a-service implemented controls. In older systems, users may have had to install a SIM card in a device to get access to internal systems, whereas newer MDM systems often operate through an over-the-air method. MDM has adapted to fit the needs of enterprises managing specific kinds of systems related to tech trends around smartphone and mobile device use.
One of the most prominent of these is bring your own device (BYOD). With BYOD, employers and employees have been able to share mobile use with flexible arrangements where a personal device can be used for business. Modern mobile device management adds security and scalability to these kinds of uses, which can require some complex access architectures and customized engineering.