Key Points
iOS Profile and Device Management Guide
- iOS profile and device management enables IT teams to securely configure, monitor, and control Apple devices across an organization.
- Centralized management improves compliance with standards like GDPR and HIPAA through encryption and remote wipe features.
- Mobile Device Management (MDM) platforms automate deployment, updates, and policy enforcement for iPhones and iPads.
- Leading MDM solutions include NinjaOne, Jamf, Kandji, Mosyle, and Microsoft Intune, each catering to different environments and needs.
- A strong MDM strategy helps MSPs and IT admins unify mobile and endpoint management under one secure, efficient framework.
Managing iOS devices is crucial for ensuring security, protecting sensitive data, and maintaining IT compliance with regulatory requirements. In this article, we’ll discuss the basics of iOS device management profiles, elaborate on some best practices, tools and strategies for configuring and deploying these profiles, and explain why your business needs MDM.
💡 Tip: You can also watch a summary of this iOS Profile and Device Management guide in video format.
What is iOS device management?
iOS device management, as with any mobile device management strategy, refers to the comprehensive process of overseeing and controlling Apple devices within an organization. This involves configuring settings, enforcing security measures, deploying apps, and ensuring compliance with organizational policies.
Key components of iOS device management
The core components of iOS device management include:
- Profiles: XML-based files that define specific settings and restrictions for devices. They can be used to control various aspects of the device, such as network configurations or app permissions.
- Device configurations: These are the specific settings applied to iOS devices to ensure they operate within the organization’s parameters. Configurations can include Wi-Fi settings, VPN setups, and security protocols.
- MDM solutions: These platforms centralize device management, allowing administrators to remotely monitor and control device settings, app installations, and compliance with security policies. By using MDM solutions, organizations can streamline the management of multiple devices and ensure consistency across their fleet.
Avoid costly mistakes and maximize your MDM success with our Dos and Don’ts guide.
The primary goal is to ensure that all devices function efficiently and securely while also providing a seamless user experience. Managing iOS devices requires tools that enable IT administrators to configure and monitor them remotely, ensuring they are always auditable and compliant with organizational standards.
Profiles in iOS device management
Profiles work by being installed on iOS devices, where they automatically configure the device’s settings according to the organization’s requirements. For example, a configuration profile can enforce security settings, such as requiring a passcode or restricting access to certain features. These profiles can be deployed remotely through top MDM tools, ensuring that devices are consistently managed without requiring physical access to each one.
Types of profiles
Profiles are crucial in iOS device management, and they come in two primary forms: configuration profiles and provisioning profiles.
Configuration profiles
These profiles apply specific settings to devices, such as Wi-Fi configurations, VPN settings, and security policies. They help ensure that devices are aligned with organizational standards.
Provisioning profiles
These profiles are essential for app development and deployment. They authorize apps to run on specific devices within an organization and ensure that only approved apps can be installed and used on managed devices.
Creating and deploying profiles
Creating and deploying profiles in iOS device management requires careful planning and tool knowledge. Administrators must first identify necessary configurations, such as security settings or network requirements, and then create profiles using tools like Apple Configurator or an MDM platform.
Manual deployment may suffice for smaller environments, but larger organizations benefit from MDM platforms, which allow remote profile deployment. Testing profiles on a small scale before full deployment ensures compatibility and prevents conflicts. A measured approach helps avoid disruptions and ensures a smooth rollout across devices.
Device management tools for iOS
MDM solutions for iOS are varied, but a few stand out due to their reliability and feature sets, particularly when managing iOS devices. Below are some of the most popular options:
| Tool | Description | Best for | Learn more |
| NinjaOne | NinjaOne MDM helps IT teams manage Android and Apple mobile devices alongside Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints from a single pane of glass. It reduces cost and complexity for unified device management. | MSPs and IT teams managing mixed environments | Read more |
| Jamf | Deeply integrated with Apple products, Jamf is a top choice for organizations heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem. It supports education and enterprise deployments. | Apple-centric organizations | Read Jamf alternatives |
| Kandji | A cloud-based MDM designed exclusively for Apple devices, Kandji offers automated security, compliance templates, and easy profile creation. | Apple-focused enterprises and sysadmins | Read Kandji alternatives |
| Mosyle | Widely used in enterprise and education sectors, Mosyle provides comprehensive Apple device management with automation, zero-touch deployment, and real-time monitoring. | Schools and Apple-first environments | Read Mosyle alternatives |
| Microsoft Intune | A leading MDM that integrates tightly with the Microsoft ecosystem to manage iOS, Android, and Windows devices. Ideal for organizations seeking unified policy and identity management. | Enterprises using Microsoft 365 | Read Intune alternatives |
These solutions are highly regarded for their ability to provide centralized management, making the administration of iOS devices more efficient and secure.
💡 Tip: Still looking for other options? We’ve written a comprehensive list of the Best MDM Solutions.
Key features of MDM solutions
There are six features every mobile device management software needs. Let’s look at some of them:
Remote configuration
Allows administrators to apply and enforce settings on devices without physical access, ensuring consistency across all devices.
Security enforcement
Enforces critical security policies, such as encryption, password protection, and remote wipe capabilities, to protect sensitive data. This should be informed by your overall mobile device security strategy.
App management
Provides the ability to deploy, update, and manage applications remotely, ensuring that users have the necessary tools without compromising security.
These features enable organizations to maintain control over their devices, ensuring security and compliance while also streamlining device management tasks.
Configuring and deploying profiles
By following a structured approach, you can ensure that your devices are configured correctly and efficiently. To configure profiles for iOS devices, follow these steps:
- Identify configurations: Determine the settings and policies that need to be enforced, such as Wi-Fi, VPN, and security configurations.
- Create profiles: Use Apple Configurator or an MDM platform to create the profiles, defining the necessary settings and restrictions.
- Test profiles: Before deploying broadly, test the profiles on a small group of devices to ensure they function as expected.
- Deploy profiles: Once validated, deploy the profiles remotely using your MDM platform to ensure consistent configurations across all devices.
Effective profile deployment requires both technical execution and strategic planning. Staggered deployment allows for monitoring and addressing issues before they impact the organization, while clear communication with users reduces resistance and ensures smoother transitions.
Common challenges include profile conflicts and deployment failures due to connectivity issues or misconfigurations. To mitigate these, review profiles for compatibility, check network connections, and ensure correct settings. Having a support plan is crucial for assisting users during deployment, addressing any issues that may arise.
Benefits of using MDM for iOS devices
Enhanced security and compliance
MDM platforms enforce security policies, protect against threats with encryption, password policies, and remote wipe capabilities, and help maintain compliance with regulations like GDPR and HIPAA.
Streamlined device management
MDM centralizes configuration, monitoring, and control, simplifying tasks like app deployment, updates, and troubleshooting, reducing downtime, and improving operational efficiency.
Improved productivity and user experience
MDM automates device setup and pre-configuration, allowing users to start working quickly without manual setup.
Continuous monitoring and remote support
MDM enables IT administrators to resolve issues remotely, minimizing in-person support needs and reducing workflow disruptions.
With the right management practices, organizations can ensure that iOS devices contribute to productivity while minimizing security vulnerabilities. Effective device management enables IT teams to control device settings, enforce security measures, and support users, all while minimizing risks to the organization.
💡 Tip: We’ve released an on-demand webinar on the benefits of MDM for MSPs. Check it out to learn about other advantages of MDM integrations.
Bonus: Case study
Ernie Turner, Director of IT of Vector, replaced 10-15 tools with NinjaOne endpoint management and MDM solution. By having an all-in-one and integrated software, Turner was able to save 40 to 50 hours per month in redundant processes and focus on more strategic projects.
“NinjaOne MDM helps keep track of any enrolled mobile device and ensures compliance. It gives me peace of mind,” Turner muses. “If a tablet goes missing, I can quickly lock it down or wipe it clean. Continuing to have our tools in a single pane saves my technicians time.”
Read more NinjaOne customer stories.
How NinjaOne strengthens iOS device management
NinjaOne’s MDM for iOS is your smarter choice for mobile management, providing your IT team with the tools to efficiently and seamlessly monitor, manage, and secure your entire iOS fleet. An all-in-one platform, NinjaOne MDM supports both company-owned and BYOD iOS devices, ensuring seamless integration into the corporate environment.
If you’re ready, request a free quote, sign up for a 14-day free trial, or watch a demo.
Related topics:
- [Video Guide] A Guide to Apple MDM & iOS MDM
- [Video Guide] Mobile Device Management Strategy: Steps & Tips
- Mobile Device Management: 6 Features You Need in your MDM Solution
- [Video Guide] How Apple Business Manager (ABM) Impacts Device Management
- Mac MDM (Mobile Device Management): Complete Guide to Managing macOS Devices
