Unified Endpoint Management?

The complete guide to Unified Endpoint Management (UEM)

Managing remote devices gets complex quickly. Imagine needing to check if antivirus is up-to-date on all client systems, you are now combing through a mix of mobile, desktop, and other scattered endpoints. When you started with just a few devices, it was simple. But as you added more tools, servers, and data, managing applications and information across systems became nearly impossible. It is a growth-driven problem, but a problem all the same.

Mobile Device Management (MDM) and Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM) helped early on by securing mobile and corporate data, but they fall short when devices do not talk to each other. MSPs are left stitching together a fragmented device landscape, making management inefficient and error-prone.

That is where Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) comes in, offering a more advanced, all-in-one solution that manages all endpoints, not just mobile ones. Despite its benefits, many managed service providers still rely on outdated or scattered tools, often unaware that UEM exists or unsure if it is worth the switch.

This gap in understanding is why we have put together a clear, practical guide to help you see exactly what UEM can do for your business.

Find the role of UEM in your MSP business and the best practices for implementing a UEM strategy that supports your remote-first endpoint management journey.

What is Unified Endpoint Management (UEM)?

Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) is an umbrella term for platforms that provide a single interface to manage multiple laptops, mobile devices, applications, and tablets, with security policies enforced across the entire stack. With a multi-device architecture, this platform enables a centralized view of every device you use, eliminating the hassle of context gaps among different tools on different platforms. 

What is the difference between MDM, EMM, and UEM?

Thanks to the abundance of device management solutions out there, it is easy to get confused. 

UEM, MDM, and EMM are particularly misunderstood and used interchangeably with each other. Although some features overlap and each is an extension of the other, all these solutions widely differ in terms of functionality and offerings.

Mobile Device Management (MDM) is the most basic form of device management, focusing mainly on managing and securing mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. It allows IT administrators to enforce security policies, control device settings, and perform actions such as remotely wiping data if a device is lost or stolen. MDM primarily deals with the hardware and operating system-level controls on mobile devices.

Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM) builds on the foundation of MDM by adding more comprehensive features. Beyond device management, EMM includes application management, content management, and identity management, which help organizations control not just the device but also the apps and data accessed on it. This broader scope enables better security and productivity by managing both corporate resources and user access.

Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) takes device and application management a step further by unifying the management of all endpoints, not just mobile devices. UEM platforms provide a single solution to manage smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktops, IoT devices, and even wearables across multiple operating systems. This unified approach simplifies IT administration, improves security, and supports the diverse range of devices used in modern enterprises.

Additional read: Transforming MSP workflows: SuperOps RMM and HaloPSA Integration

Why is Unified Endpoint Management important for MSP?

As an MSP in today’s world, you are navigating a high-threat landscape, employees who lack awareness of potential threats, and a scarcity of robust platforms that give visibility into what is happening so you are able to respond to issues quickly. Employees actively access confidential company data with their mobile phones now. They download apps from app stores, install updates, and connect to public WiFi—all without IT intervention. Companies need control over devices they DO NOT own to ensure sensitive data does not fall into unauthorized hands.

As the era of remote, digital workplace slowly takes over its centralized, IT-administered counterpart, UEM adoption becomes critical for MSPs to ensure complete endpoint security. Apart from security, UEM software also puts user experience first by enabling device management from a single console as opposed to many. Managing multiple consoles comes with a hefty price tag—each one needs to be installed and monitored by focused IT experts, hiring whom can be a costly and time-consuming affair.

What are the benefits of Unified Endpoint Management?                                                                   

At the core of UEM software is the simplification of IT management through a unified glass pane view and maximum endpoint security, achieved by establishing zero-trust security. There are more. 

The evolution of Unified Endpoint Management (UEM)

UEM has been around for many years, so why talk about it now?

Many businesses were comfortable with their traditional device management tools as the focus was mainly on managing remote devices. They could handle activities ranging from device provisioning to location tracking on a basic level. Efficiency wasn’t as much of a buzzword as it is today, and neither was security. MDM could get away with offering basic security features like remote wipe and data encryption.

The first pivot came with the surge in mobile phone usage.

The need for an improved device management solution became pronounced when the initial wave of mobile phones and mobile apps hit the market. As employees started accessing corporate data from their mobiles, businesses scrambled to make BYOD (bring your own device) security a priority to prevent unprotected external devices from becoming a breeding ground for cyberattacks. This marks the beginning of Mobile Application Management (MAM) and Mobile Content Management (MCM), which expanded the capabilities of mobile device management to focus on managing and protecting apps and app data. More features were introduced at the granular level, like crash log reporting, app updating, and app wrapping.

This is when Apple and Microsoft started building mobile device management features into their PC operating systems. MDM and EMM vendors had to start supporting desktop devices rather than just mobile devices. When the focus shifted from device to software, the idea of unified endpoint management fully materialized, enabling businesses to manage any endpoint. It didn’t matter anymore whether the device had a SIM card or an operating system.

The next and final pivot came in the form of remote work.

Although many companies were already shifting to UEM platforms, acknowledging the need for a unified platform to manage endpoints, the pandemic proved to be the ultimate reality check for those that were not. Hundreds of client organizations went remote overnight, decentralizing the infrastructure outside office perimeters. The shift necessitated a solution that provides a single pane of glass to monitor every conceivable element of the IT environment with ease.

UEM and IoT device management

Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) is increasingly critical as organizations adopt a wide range of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, from sensors and smart cameras to industrial equipment and wearable technology. 

Unlike traditional endpoints, IoT devices often have limited built-in security and operate on diverse platforms, making them vulnerable entry points for cyber threats. Integrating IoT device management into UEM solutions allows businesses to apply consistent security policies, monitor device status in real-time, and control access across all connected devices.

With UEM, IT teams can automate onboarding and provisioning of IoT devices, ensuring they meet compliance and security standards from the moment they connect to the network. Additionally, UEM provides centralized visibility and management, helping detect anomalies, update firmware, and mitigate risks before they impact operations. 

As IoT ecosystems expand, using UEM for comprehensive device management becomes essential for maintaining security, improving operational efficiency, and safeguarding sensitive data across the entire enterprise.

What are the steps for successful UEM deployment?

Deploying a Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) solution is not just about installing software; it requires strategic planning and execution to ensure long-term success. Here are the key steps for a smooth and effective UEM deployment.

What are the best practices for implementing UEM?

Implementing UEM effectively is not just about deploying the right tools; it is also about following practices that ensure long-term success and user satisfaction. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:

• Use mobile content management: Use your UEM system to manage and monitor content downloaded to user devices. This helps prevent the spread of threats like malware from unsafe files or apps.

• Adopt a comprehensive endpoint management strategy: With hybrid and remote work becoming the norm, users connect from a wide range of devices and locations. Your UEM strategy should cover all endpoint types, mobile, desktop, and IoT, ensuring consistent security and policy enforcement across the board.

• Separate corporate and personal data: Use containerization to isolate business data on personal devices. This protects sensitive information without interfering with users’ private photos, files, or apps.

• Set up a clear troubleshooting process: Even with a strong UEM system, technical issues will happen. Ensure users know how to report problems and who to contact, so disruptions are handled quickly and efficiently.

• Prioritize a smooth user experience: A UEM strategy should support business goals, but not at the cost of frustrating your users. Gather feedback regularly to ensure the system is intuitive and doesn’t hinder productivity.

How to choose the right UEM tool?

As mentioned earlier, there is a gap in the knowledge of what UEM is capable of. It can be difficult to choose the right UEM tool if you don’t know what to expect. Make sure the solution you choose checks the following boxes, and you’re good to go.

1. The tool supports various operating systems, including Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, and Linux, instead of just hyper-focusing on popular operating systems like Apple or Android.

2. The tool puts user experience first. Enrolling their devices and understanding the tool usage shouldn’t be a steep learning curve for employees.

3. The tool integrates well with your existing ticketing system and security solutions.

4. The tool satisfies compliance requirements with industry and government regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

5. The tool provides condition-based and role-based access instead of mere binary (0-1) level access. 

6. The tool has an option to provide MAM-only access, which means if a company doesn’t want to control their employees’ devices, they don’t. They just control the corporate apps.

7. The tool has automation capabilities that help companies cut costs on recurring processes such as device deployment and onboarding.

8. The tool makes updating and managing patches hassle-free. 

9. The tool provider supports initial set-up, migration, and training if needed.

10. The tool has transparent pricing. Hidden costs are usually associated with bundled solutions, and you want to err on the side of caution.

Some tend to base their choice of UEM purely on price points or the number of endpoints or users, only to find that their new software doesn't meet their needs. Take a look at the 10 best UEM software in the market compared extensively against each other based on price, feature availability, and other crucial factors.

How to overcome common challenges in endpoint management?

Endpoint management comes with its share of challenges, from device diversity to security risks and user privacy concerns. Understanding these obstacles and knowing how to address them is key to maintaining a secure and efficient IT environment. 

1. Handling device diversity: With employees using a mix of desktops, laptops, mobile phones, and tablets, managing them all can be tricky. Use a UEM solution that supports multiple operating systems and device types to ensure consistent control and visibility.

2. Ensuring security and compliance: Keeping all endpoints secure and compliant with policies is a major concern. Automate security updates, enforce encryption, and apply access controls through UEM to reduce vulnerabilities and meet regulatory requirements.

3. Managing remote and hybrid workforces: Remote work makes it harder to monitor and secure devices. Implement always-on VPNs, cloud-based management, and remote troubleshooting tools to keep control no matter where users are located.

4. Balancing control with user privacy: Users expect privacy, especially on personal devices. Use containerization and policy-based management to separate work data from personal data, maintaining security without invading privacy.

5. Preventing shadow IT and unauthorized access: Users may install unapproved apps or use unsecured services. UEM tools can restrict app installs, monitor usage, and block risky behaviors before they become threats.

6. Reducing IT workload: Manually managing endpoints is time-consuming. Automate tasks like provisioning, patching, and compliance checks to save time and reduce human error.

Integration of UEM with other IT systems

To maximize the benefits of Unified Endpoint Management, it is important to integrate UEM solutions with other critical IT systems. Here, have a look at the popular integrations:

• Directory services: Connecting UEM with directory services like Active Directory or Azure Active Directory (Entra ID) helps manage users and devices using existing organizational structures, enabling features like single sign-on and automatic user provisioning.

• Identity providers: Integration with identity platforms such as Okta and Google ensures secure, policy-driven access to company resources based on verified user identities.

• Security tools: Linking UEM with antivirus, endpoint detection and response (EDR), and SIEM systems strengthens threat detection and overall security management.

• Service management: Integrating with help desk solutions like ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus automates support processes, making issue tracking and device troubleshooting more efficient.

• Cloud services: Connecting UEM with cloud platforms like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace provides centralized management for devices accessing cloud resources.

• Certificate management: UEM can work with certificate authorities to automate issuing and managing digital certificates, ensuring secure device authentication and communications.

• Data export to SIEM: Sending endpoint data to SIEM tools helps with continuous security monitoring and compliance auditing.

• Content management: Integration with platforms like SharePoint or Google Drive allows secure handling and access to files across managed devices.

• Network policy enforcement: Partnering with solutions like Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) enables enforcing security policies based on device health and user identity for better network protection.

What’s in store for UEM?

If security is one driving force of UEM adoption, seamless user experience and productivity are the other. In a market where every company would offer remote endpoint management and a good one at that, MSPs are realizing the only way to move ahead is to stand out. They need a solution that facilitates efficiency, ease of user experience, and productivity rather than one that merely monitors devices.

With a unified endpoint management software that saves the hassle of context-switching and the cost to hire multiple vendors to handle multiple devices, MSPs can seamlessly maximize their secure, mobile-first endpoint management offerings.

Now, what’s in store for UEM? Big things! Market analysts suggest a growing demand for AI-driven automation to be engineered in UEM solutions, to make way for intelligent systems that can deliver far superior user experiences.

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