How the Right Tools Simplify and Secure Apple Device Management

As Apple devices have become widely used in business environments, we’ve learned that many organizations need a more formal approach to management and security. In particular, they can benefit from a platform that offers management, security and identity capabilities, elements which Apple provides through its Secure by Design integrated security.

Organizations with relatively few devices may be reluctant to adopt a management solution because they believe a manual approach is sufficient. Apple devices are renowned for their strong security features and are often perceived as more secure than PCs. However, to fully leverage these strengths and protect corporate resources, it’s essential to implement tailored security measures that address the unique challenges and threats in today’s environment.

In practice, many organizations lack the internal expertise to manage devices effectively. It is essential to know how to support them — especially remotely — and keep them secure. Thanks to its intentional and comprehensive design, which addresses both software and hardware concerns, Apple makes the deployment, management and security of its devices simple. Here are a few important considerations for Apple device management and areas where CDW can provide valuable guidance.

Apple devices are secure by design, with powerful built-in features that protect both users and devices. Additionally, built-in frameworks enable IT to manage security systemwide.

For example, Apple XProtect detects malware, while Gatekeeper prevents unauthorized software from running. For the most part, these can keep cyberattacks at bay. However, like any other computer, Apple devices can be susceptible to phishing attacks if a user clicks on a link that installs malicious malware and attempts to steal user credentials. Fortunately, Apple devices have a robust set of features to protect employees from malware and viruses while making it easy for IT to distribute secure software at scale.

If organizations don’t manage their Apple users, employees are likely to use local accounts that have admin rights. If Apple users are allowed to use their personal accounts so they can access iTunes and other applications, that could result in corporate information being saved on an individual iCloud account. That’s risky in any case, and it raises concerns that sensitive corporation information could be saved in an unmanaged, unsecure location that does not meet regulatory requirements.

A robust barrier between personal and corporate information is crucial. A partner can help organizations create that barrier through policies and tools that protect organizational data. For example, if employees use their own Apple devices, organizations can require that they enroll in a mobile device management solution before accessing corporate applications.

Three key strategies can significantly enhance an organization’s overall security: analyzing the threat environment, leveraging MDM platforms and implementing threat detection of malware.

Understanding the current threat landscape is essential. We recommend that our customers follow the Center for Internet Security (CIS) framework to systematically analyze and address potential threats. The framework provides a structured approach to identifying vulnerabilities and implementing appropriate controls.

MDM solutions help organizations configure security settings and manage profiles across devices. Additionally, we assist customers in enhancing the deployment of software updates by implementing systems that ensure prompt updates. This comprehensive approach maintains device security and compliance by consistently applying the latest security patches and enforcing security policies.

Finally, organizations should deploy tools for threat detection of malware, such as Microsoft Defender for Endpoint or Jamf Protect. Tools such as these provide an additional layer of security for Apple devices by detecting and mitigating malware threats effectively.

In general, MDM solutions offer capabilities for device management, security and identity — essential features for remote and hybrid workforces. For example, suppose a security incident occurs, and an organization’s IT team needs to address the threat. A management solution lets the team quickly and efficiently deploy a solution to end users. MDM solutions also enable organizations to be more proactive — for instance, by using a tool such as Jamf’s Compliance Editor to align with CIS standards.

Selecting the most appropriate platform for a specific environment ensures that organizations will gain the most efficiency and the most effective solutions. CDW’s professional services team can help customers identify their most critical challenges related to Apple device management and recommend the best solutions to keep your devices secure. Then, we can transfer that knowledge so that internal teams can keep these solutions optimized for the future.