Remote Device Management for Modern Workforces

Remote Device Management (RDM) improves IT admins abilities to efficiently manage a range of devices regardless of environment. Whether they're operating on-premises, in the cloud, or across both environments, a remote device management system helps maintain security and performance. It also supports an expanding number of endpoints without the need for physical on-site presence.

What is Remote Device Management (RDM)?

Remote Device Management is the practice or system that allows IT administrators to monitor, maintain, and troubleshoot a fleet of devices from any location, without the need for physical access.

Remote device management system refers to the concept of managing and monitoring various devices such as desktops, laptops, smartphones, tablets, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices from a centralized location.

RDM lets IT teams update applications, manage device configurations, enforce security policies, and remotely resolve issues, ensuring devices remain secure and functional regardless of where they are used.

Types of Devices to Manage Remotely

Remote device management covers a large variety of devices, including:

• Mobile Devices: Smartphones and tablets need to be managed remotely to make sure they stay secure, up-to-date, and compliant with company policies.
• PCs and Laptops: Remote management allows IT teams to perform updates, troubleshoot issues, and enforce security measures without physical access.
• IoT Devices: More businesses are using smart home devices and wearables. RDM allows for device monitoring and remote maintenance.
• Network Devices: Network stability and security of routers, switches, and other network devices can effectively be monitored under an RDM system.
• Android-based Devices: These devices are widely used in various industries.
• iOS Devices: Apple devices are popular in many organizations. Remote management keeps them functioning optimally.
• Windows-based Devices: These are common in corporate environments. RDM helps keep them updated and secure.
• Linux-based Devices: Often used in specialized fields, these devices can also be managed remotely to meet organizational standards.

Remote Device Management Benefits

As businesses adapt to remote and hybrid working models, RDM offers advantages such as:

• Increased Productivity: RDM allows employees to remain productive regardless of location. By enabling employees to use their preferred devices, businesses experience smooth operations without sacrificing security.
• Enhanced Security: Through remote monitoring and real-time troubleshooting, RDM helps organizations quickly detect and mitigate security threats, ensuring company data stays protected.
• Cost Efficiency: With fewer on-site IT interventions needed, RDM reduces the need for costly physical visits or shipping devices for repairs. This cuts operational costs while optimizing IT resources.
• Operational Efficiency: Routine device management tasks, like software updates and troubleshooting, can be automated through RDM tools. This not only enhances efficiency but also frees up IT staff to focus on strategic tasks rather than manual interventions.

Remote Device Management Tools

Remote device management software is a vital tool for IT departments, allowing for centralized management of devices. Lets focus on two essential tools:

• Mobile Device Management (MDM)
• Remote Access Software.

What is Mobile Device Management (MDM)?

Mobile device management is a subset of RDM. It allows IT teams to manage, secure, and monitor mobile devices (such as smartphones and tablets) and laptops remotely. MDM is the system organizations follow to make sure devices are updated, secure, and compliant with company policies.

Key MDM Features:

• App Deployment: MDM allows IT teams to deploy apps remotely, giving employees the tools they need to do their jobs without physical intervention.
• Security Policy Enforcement: MDM can enforce company security policies, such as setting passcodes, restricting app installations, and ensuring devices are updated with the latest patches.
• Zero-Touch Enrollment: Devices can be sent directly to employees with MDM preinstalled, and once powered on, the devices automatically enroll into the system without IT ever having to touch them.
• Device Health Monitoring: With MDM, IT can monitor device health, track issues, and respond promptly to security threats or device malfunctions.

Managing Apple Devices

For teams managing fleets of Apple devices, Jamf Pro is well-known as a leading mobile device management (MDM) solution.

We cover how to configure Jamf Pro on your Tailscale network (known as a tailnet) in our docs.

There are different ownership models for enrolling devices into MDM:

• Corporate Owned: The organization fully controls the device, including installed apps and security settings.
• Corporate Owned, Personally Enabled: Employees can use personal partitions on their devices for non-work purposes, while company data remains isolated and secure.
• Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): Employees enroll their personal devices in MDM when they need access to company resources, maintaining privacy for personal data.

Remote Access Software

Remote access software allows IT teams to access and control devices remotely to resolve issues, troubleshoot problems, and assist users. A remote device management console is essential in overseeing and controlling company-owned devices effectively. This type of software is critical for providing support to employees working from various locations.

Features include:

• Screen Sharing: IT admins can view the device screen in real time to diagnose and troubleshoot problems. This is particularly useful for user support and software troubleshooting.
• Remote Control: Beyond viewing, remote access software enables IT to control the device, run applications, and even resolve issues as if they were physically present.
• Improved Collaboration: Admins and users can collaborate through remote access software, ensuring that users are supported promptly without the need to send devices to the IT department.

The best remote device management system offers integrated remote access capabilities as part of a broader device management solution.

In Practice: How Remote Device Management Works

RDM typically operates through an agent-based model that equips the device with an RDM agent. This agent communicates with the centralized management platform over a secure connection, enabling IT administrators to remotely access, monitor, and manage the device. They can also block unauthorized data access.

Here’s how the process (typically) works:

1. Agent Deployment: Devices are pre-configured with RDM software, or administrators can deploy agents remotely.
2. Secure Communication: The agent communicates with the RDM platform using secure communication protocols, ensuring that data transmitted between the device and IT admins is protected.
3. Authentication and Authorization: Before any management actions can occur, administrators or users must authenticate themselves to prevent unauthorized access.
4. Remote Control: Once authenticated, IT can take control of the device for updates, troubleshooting, and policy enforcement.

Implementing a Remote Device Management System

Implementing a remote device management system involves several critical steps:

• Evaluating Current Infrastructure: Assess your existing IT infrastructure to identify your organization’s unique requirements and pain points.
• Choosing the Right RDM Solution: Select an RDM solution that offers comprehensive remote device monitoring, configuration management, and real-time troubleshooting capabilities.
• Deploying the RDM Solution: Roll out the chosen RDM solution and configure it to meet your organization’s specific needs.
• Training IT Staff: Provide thorough training for IT staff on how to use the RDM platform effectively, ensuring they can manage and troubleshoot devices remotely.
• Ensuring Robust Security: Implement robust encryption, multi-factor authentication, and granular access control lists (ACLs) to protect sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access.

By following these steps, organizations will have a smooth and successful system launch and see improved efficiency and security between remote devices.

Challenges of Remote Device Management

Managing remote devices in a cloud-based work environment presents various issues IT administrators face, such as:

• Integration Complexity: Integrating RDM tools with existing IT infrastructure, such as different operating systems and device types, can be complex and time-consuming.
• Security Risks: Robust encryption, multi-factor authentication, and proper access controls reduces the risk of unauthorized access via a remote device.
• Scalability: As the number of remote devices grows, managing an ever-expanding fleet can become difficult without a scalable RDM solution.
• User Training: While RDM tools can simplify many IT tasks, users must be trained on how to securely interact with the system to prevent errors or breaches.

How Much Does Remote Device Management Cost?

The cost of remote device management varies depending on several factors, including the number of devices, required features, and the provider.

Here are some of the benefits to consider when weighing costs:

• Improved efficiency
• Increased productivity
• Security

Consider both setup fees and ongoing maintenance costs when researching solutions that fit your needs as well as your budget.

Related: Get started with Tailscale for free.

What to Look for in the Best Remote Device Management Tools

When selecting the best remote device management (RDM) tools, it’s important to prioritize:

• Security
• Scalability
• Ease of use

A comprehensive remote device management solution is essential for IT administrators to manage devices for both remote and office workers. The best RDM tools offer strong encryption, multi-factor authentication, and robust access controls to safeguard sensitive data. The best RDM solutions should maintain compatibility across all your devices and operating systems.

Real-time monitoring

• User-friendly interface
• Proactive troubleshooting
• Automated updates

These key features streamline device management and minimize downtime. Additionally, a user-friendly interface and excellent customer support are essential for smooth deployment and ongoing management. Choose a solution that can scale with your organization’s needs as it grows and adapts to evolving work environments.

Future of Remote Device Management

The remote device management market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.

Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and IoT will shape the future of RDM. These technologies will enhance the capabilities of RDM solutions, making them even more critical for organizations looking to stay ahead of the curve.

Investing in advanced RDM tools will keep organizations ahead of the curve when it comes to maintaining security, productivity, and remaining efficient in an increasingly remote and digital world.

How Tailscale can Help

Tailscale is a VPN alternative that can help streamline your remote device management system by providing secure, simple, and scalable solutions that align with a Zero Trust model. With Tailscale, you can seamlessly connect devices anywhere there’s wifi without the need for complex network configurations or VPNs, making it ideal for managing diverse devices and applications used by remote employees. This includes:

• Leveraging end-to-end encryption and strict access controls.
• Ensuring only authorized users can access sensitive devices and data.
• Simplifying IT management and providing safe, reliable access to company resources regardless of where - or how - your teams work.

Ready for better, more secure connectivity? Watch how easy it is to get started with Tailscale for free in this quick start guide.