With the cost of the average security breach skyrocketing to $4.45 million, companies need to protect their assets more than ever before. 

Corporations and large businesses are especially at risk, given the large surface that attackers can target. As such, practices like mobile application management (MAM) can be the difference between smooth sailing and becoming a recurring target for hackers. 

In this article, we will define MAM and go over its benefits. We will also describe how MAM helps protect devices across a company and what requirements you must keep in mind before implementing this strategy.  

Definition of Mobile Application Management (MAM)

Corporations are in a difficult position as the use of AI and other innovative technology has skyrocketed by 600%, but mobile application management is a great strategy to help smoothen the transition to new advancements

MAM is the practice of securing devices and enabling a company’s IT company to control enterprise applications on smartphones and similar devices. 

At the same time, MAM is also the term used to refer to the software that enables IT administrators to apply, monitor, and enforce corporate policies on company gadgets. 

Modern MAM technology doesn’t only protect corporate devices, but can also be used to create a division between personal content and sensitive company data. That said, this depends on the license, configuration, and features available on the MAM platform. 

Why is MAM Important?

The benefits and advantages of MAM can be summarized as improved security and enhanced practicality, but these have a more profound impact on your team. 

In addition to specific devices, MAM inherently protects your entire network from attacks like phishing, whaling, and malware. This can save millions and prevent disruptions that impact a company’s end customer. 

Additionally, MAM brings practical benefits because IT administrators can take over a device and provide direct assistance. This includes:

• Running diagnostics;
• Troubleshooting the device;
• Installing or removing applications;
• And receiving real-time notifications and performance statistics. 

The Inner Workings of Mobile Application Management

MAM platforms combine features found in remote assistance applications and antiviruses, but how exactly does this technology work? Let’s take a closer look. 

App Wrapping and Advanced SDKs

Compatibility with MAM technology is usually implemented directly on apps through advanced SDKs or after the development process through a process called application wrapping. Both of these methods allow MAM software to have administrative control over a network of devices. 

Isolation or Sandboxing

Also known as sandboxing or containerization, the isolation of apps is another crucial part of MAM. Corporate data that’s contained cannot leave that safe digital space, regardless of the behavior or other apps including the operating system. 

Device Control

Finally, MAM allows IT administrators to take control of either an app or the entire device. Using this feature, IT specialists can prevent the downloading of harmful files or the sharing of sensitive data. 

Requirements of Successful MAM

The implementation of MAM comes with certain challenges, so it’s important to take certain steps in order to monitor the devices that employees use on and off the premises. 

Security 

Security is by far the biggest challenge for MAM, and this is largely due to the number of devices that need to be monitored. As a general rule of thumb, it’s essential to implement company-wide security best practices, including the use of Surfshark VPN or a similar corporate solution. 

License Support

Most major products provide licensing support, but make sure that your current solution gives you the ability to apply MAM to multiple devices. 

Technical Specifications

MAM software platforms can vary in set of features, compatibility, and even application. As such, you need to ensure that the solution you choose is compatible with your other administrative tools.

This can simplify internal processes and create synergy during reporting and analysis. 

To Wrap Up

Mobile application management is an essential practice for corporations and other businesses that want to plug all weaknesses in their systems. 

While MAM has great benefits like increased security and simplified troubleshooting, it’s important to keep requirements like security and technical specifications in mind. 

As long as you take an organized approach and choose robust platforms, you should be able to establish a MAM protocol that keeps your organization safe.