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Mobile device management a key tool for BYOD
February 13, 2012The rapid rise of bring-your-own-device policies has created problems for many businesses, as smartphones and tablets have become popular faster than the systems that support them. This is especially evident when it comes to security, as there are currently few antivirus solutions that are designed specifically to protect them. Despite these concerns, a recent InfoBoom report said many businesses believe the benefits of BYOD outweigh the risks. This is possible, in large part, because mobile device management can ease many security concerns, holding the security fort until more complete solutions come into play.
The news source said the benefits of BYOD are clear, as allowing employees to use personal smartphones and tablets eliminates almost all mobile hardware costs while also saving businesses from having to buy data and calling plans for their mobile workers. BYOD also tends to improve operational efficiency and help workers enjoy their office environment more.
The problem is that few mobile-specific security solutions currently exist. The report said this leaves many organizations porting desktop and laptop antivirus plans to mobile devices. This is not really an adequate solution when it comes to enterprise security needs because hackers are quickly becoming more sophisticated and aggressive. As a result, mobile device management is becoming key.
On its own, MDM is not enough to safeguard smartphones and tablets in the workplace. It can add a layer of control over BYOD, which is especially beneficial considering the likelihood that businesses will need to deal with remote wiping lost and stolen devices. However, MDM cannot overcome the lack of antivirus and network security tools in the mobile market. In response, the news source said organizations should combine mobile device management with customized antivirus systems that either adapt desktop and laptop systems or are built from scratch. While this is not ideal, it should keep companies safe until new tools hit the market.
Integrating the MDM platform with CMDB systems is one way to add another layer of control over smartphones and tablets. If IT considers employee-owned mobile devices as part of the broad IT configuration, it can better monitor the impact those computing platforms have on the technical operations of the company. This can lead to safer change management and help prevent outages and similar issues.