F5 GLOSSARY

Mobile Device Management (MDM)

What is MDM (Mobile Device Management)?

MDM, short for "Mobile Device Management," refers to the methods or systems used to manage mobile devices such as smartphones. Mobile devices enhance user convenience by enabling work from anywhere, contributing to transformative work styles like "working anytime, anywhere." However, this portability also introduces security risks, such as data leaks caused by device loss or unauthorized usage outside the administrator's control. Additionally, since these devices move with users, administrators face challenges in performing tasks like software installations or configuration changes directly on the device.

MDM was developed to address these issues. With MDM, the following actions can typically be performed remotely:

  • Installing software on devices
  • Changing device settings
  • Restricting device functionality
  • Locking a device in case of loss
  • Wiping device data remotely in case of loss
  • Locating the device and displaying movement history

MDM mitigates the risk of data leaks from lost devices, prevents unauthorized use, and centralizes management efforts, thereby reducing administrative workload. Additionally, more advanced systems called EMM (Enterprise Mobility Management) have been developed as an evolution of MDM.