Free device management software: 6 best picks for 2026

As organizations increasingly rely on smartphones tablets and laptops to keep their businesses running the demand for top notch device management solutions is on the rise. Free MDM software is a viable option for businesses looking to lower costs and find cost-effective ways to manage and secure their devices.

This article takes a closer look at the top free device management tools of 2026, highlighting their key features, pros, and cons, so you can make an informed decision that is right for your business.

Key takeaways:

• Free MDM software provides a cost-effective entry point for businesses to manage and secure devices, offering essential features like enrollment, policy enforcement, and remote wipe, though often with limits on devices or advanced features.
• The "best" tool depends heavily on your specific ecosystem and needs, with standout options for remote teams (GroWrk), Apple devices (Jamf Now), Android/open source (Headwind MDM), or integration with Microsoft (Intune).
• Key trade-offs exist with free solutions, including device limits (e.g., 25 for ManageEngine, 3 for Jamf Now), reduced advanced features, potential complexity for setup, and often limited customer support compared to paid tiers.
  
  

What is Mobile Device Management?

Mobile Device Management (MDM) software lets organizations monitor and secure the mobile devices their employees use. MDM ensures devices stay in line with company policies and standards by providing a centralized platform for compliance.

This comprehensive approach supports a range of operating systems, including Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS, making it versatile and suitable for diverse environments. With MDM, organizations can streamline device setup, implement security policies, and maintain control over their mobile devices to keep them running smoothly and securely.

Key features of Mobile Device Management software

Mobile Device Management software typically includes features that help organisations manage and secure their mobile devices effectively. Some of the key features you would typically find in MDM software include:

• Device enrollment and configuration management: This makes it easier to enroll new devices and configure them in line with company policies.
• App management and distribution: This feature lets administrators manage and distribute apps across all managed devices, ensuring a consistent experience and compliance. You can also remove apps remotely if they are not compliant.
• Security policies and compliance management: This part of the software enforces security policies to protect sensitive data and ensures devices meet regulatory requirements.
• Remote wipe and lock capabilities: This lets users wipe or lock devices remotely should they be lost or stolen, protecting sensitive information.
• Automated patch management and software updates: This ensures that devices are always up to date with the latest security patches and software updates.
• Device tracking and location services: This lets you track the location of devices to monitor usage and ensure they are being used within authorised areas.
• Monitoring device usage and activity: This gives you insights into how devices are being used, helping you to identify potential security risks or misuse.
• User-friendly interface: The interface is designed to be easy to use, even for those with minimal technical knowledge.
  
  

Best free mobile device management software overview

Choosing the right free mobile device management software can be a challenge. Here is a quick rundown on the best free device management tools available today:

• Best for remote teams: GroWrk
• Best for comprehensive features: ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus.
• Best for Apple devices: Jamf Now.
• Best for security: Xcitium (formerly Comodo MDM).
• Best for integration with Microsoft ecosystem: Microsoft Intune.
• Best for open source Android management: Headwind MDM.

GroWrk Best for remote teams

GroWrk is tailored for distributed teams and offers a streamlined approach to remote device management for hybrid workforces. Its easy onboarding process lets remote employees quickly set up their devices while the centralised dashboard lets administrators keep an eye on device usage and make sure everything runs smoothly. GroWrk prioritises security too with features like secure data handling and remote wipe capabilities to protect sensitive information.

The free platform is great for managing inventory though users may find advanced logistics features are only available on a paid plan. Some organisations may need to integrate with other tools to get the most out of GroWrk but it does offer a user friendly and secure mobile device management solution for businesses with remote teams.

Pricing:

• Free platform access (pay for services/hardware).

Features:

• Global equipment procurement and logistics in 150+ countries.
• Centralized dashboard for device management.
• Automated onboarding and offboarding workflows.
• Device tracking and lifecycle management.

Pros:

• Easy onboarding process for remote employees.
• Secure data handling and remote wipe capabilities.
• Scalable for distributed teams globally.

Cons:

• Full logistics services are paid.
• Limited advanced features in the free tier.

Rating:

• Price: 5/5
• Design: 5/5
• Features: 5/5
• Usability: 5/5

ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus Best for comprehensive features

ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus has extensive features for mobile and desktop devices making it a robust device management platform. It covers device enrollment configuration app management and security enforcement offering a comprehensive MDM solution.

The free version is limited to 25 devices which might be restrictive for larger organizations. While the user interface is user friendly its advanced features may require more advanced IT knowledge. However it remains an excellent choice for monitoring device usage for small to medium sized businesses seeking a secure and scalable MDM solution.

Pricing:

• Free for up to 25 devices (Permanent free edition).

Features:

• Supports multiple operating systems (Android iOS Windows macOS Chrome OS).
• Automated patch management and asset management.
• Remote control and troubleshooting tools.
• Containerization for corporate data privacy.

Pros:

• Fully functional with comprehensive features in the free edition.
• Supports a wide range of devices and platforms.
• Scalability for when your business grows.

Cons:

• The free version is strictly limited to 25 devices.
• On premises setup can be complex for beginners.

Rating:

• Price: 4/5
• Design: 4/5
• Features: 5/5
• Usability: 3/5

Jamf Now Best for Apple devices

Jamf Now is a great option if your business is primarily using Apple products think Mac iPad and iPhone. The setup process is actually pretty simple even for non techies so you can get up and running quickly. Plus it integrates super well with the Apple ecosystem.

One thing to keep in mind is that Jamf Now is really only good for managing Apple devices if you have Android or Windows devices you might want to look elsewhere. On the other hand if you are already invested in the Apple ecosystem Jamf Now is a solid choice for keeping everything running smoothly.

Pricing:

• Free for up to 3 devices.

Features:

• Zero touch deployment with Apple Business Manager.
• App distribution and configuration management.
• Remote security features like passcode enforcement and disk encryption.
• Malware prevention and web protection.

Pros:

• Easy setup process requiring no IT expertise.
• Seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem.
• Effective for small businesses starting out.

Cons:

• Limited to only 3 devices on the free plan.
• No support for Android or Windows operating systems.

Rating:

• Price: 3/5
• Design: 5/5
• Features: 4/5
• Usability: 5/5

Xcitium - Best for security

Xcitium is a great choice for businesses that take security super seriously. It has got all the features you would want advanced encryption real time threat detection and more to manage corporate resources effectively.

One thing to keep in mind is that this software can be a bit of a learning curve especially if you are new to MDM. And to be honest it can be a bit slow sometimes. But if security is a top priority for you Xcitium is definitely worth checking out.

Pricing:

• Free version available (Open Source / Dragon Platform options).

Features:

• Real time threat detection and antivirus integration.
• Secure app distribution and containerization.
• Remote device control for troubleshooting.
• Integration with Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD).

Pros:

• Advanced encryption and comprehensive security tools.
• Integration with Microsoft Entra ID.
• Supports BYOD with separate work profiles.

Cons:

• Steeper learning curve for non technical users.
• Performance may vary with usage intensity.

Rating:

• Price: 4/5
• Design: 3/5
• Features: 5/5
• Usability: 3/5

Microsoft Intune Best for integration with Microsoft ecosystem

Microsoft Intune is a great choice if your business is already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem. It integrates super well with Office 365 and Windows environments making it a big win for businesses that already use these tools. Plus features like remote actions and endpoint analytics are a big plus.

One thing to keep in mind is that the setup process for Intune can be a bit complicated especially if you are not familiar with the Microsoft ecosystem. But if you are already using these tools Intune is a great choice for efficient device management.

Pricing:

• Free Trial (30 days) included with many Microsoft 365 Business subscriptions.

Features:

• Seamless integration with Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Entra ID.
• Endpoint analytics for real time monitoring.
• Mobile Application Management (MAM) without enrollment.
• Conditional access policies to protect corporate data.

Pros:

• Seamless integration with Microsoft products.
• Remote actions including device locking and data wiping.
• Industry leading security and compliance features.

Cons:

• Complex setup process for new administrators.
• Not a perpetually "free" standalone product (Subscription required after trial).

Rating:

• Price: 4/5
• Design: 4/5
• Features: 5/5
• Usability: 3/5

Headwind MDM Best for open source Android management

Headwind MDM is a seriously powerful open-source MDM software specifically designed for Android devices. It is a top-notch choice for businesses that want to manage their corporate-owned Android devices, including kiosks, tablets, and rugged devices. And because it is open source, you get flexibility and the ability to deploy it on premises, so you keep full control over your data.

The Headwind MDM Community edition is free and includes essentials like quiet app installation and remote configuration. This one has got a big following among developers and technical teams who want a customizable solution without being tied to a vendor.

Pricing:

• Free (Open Source Community Edition).

Features:

• Silent installation and updating of applications.
• Kiosk mode to restrict device usage to specific apps.
• Remote device status monitoring and logging.
• Open source code for maximum customizability.

Pros:

• Completely free and open source.
• Great for managing Android devices in bulk.
• No vendor lock in you control the server.

Cons:

• Limited support for iOS or Windows devices (Android focused).
• Requires technical expertise to set up and maintain the server.

Rating:

• Price: 5/5
• Design: 3/5
• Features: 4/5
• Usability: 3/5
  
  

MDM deployment options

So, how do you get your MDM software up and running? Well, there are a few ways to do it, depending on your organization's needs and infrastructure. Here are a few options:

• Cloud-based deployment: This is when you host your MDM software in the cloud and access it through a web interface. Nice and flexible with minimal on-premises kit required.
• On-premises deployment: This is when you install your MDM software on your organization's servers and manage it in-house. You get more control over the software and data, but it requires more resources for maintenance and management.
• Hybrid deployment: This is a combo of cloud-based and on-premises; some features are hosted in the cloud, and others are managed internally. It is a good compromise between flexibility and control and suits organisations with specific needs.
  
  

Benefits of using free Mobile Device Management software

Imagine you need to get your company employees set up on company devices with zero touch onboarding. You do not want to have to configure each device for access or security manually. Free MDM solutions enable businesses to efficiently manage their Android device fleet with features like remote tracking, application management, and security enforcement. That is where free MDM software comes in it can give you some great benefits including:

• Cost savings: You save money on device management costs which is great for budget conscious businesses.
• Easy deployment: Free MDM software is usually easy to set up and deploy even if you do not have much IT experience.
• Basic features: You get the essential features you need to manage mobile devices like device enrollment app management and security policies.
• Scalability: You can scale up or down as your business needs it without breaking the bank.
  
  

Limitations of free MDM solutions

Now free MDM software is great and all that but it is not perfect. Here are a few of its limitations:

• Limited features: Compared to paid solutions free MDM software tends to have fewer features and less advanced security and management capabilities.
• Limited support: Free MDM software usually has limited support options which can be a pain if you need help right away.
• Limited scalability: Free MDM software may not be able to handle large or complex organisations which can be a problem as your business grows.
• Security risks: Free MDM software may not have the same level of security as paid solutions leaving your devices vulnerable to security risks and potential breaches.
  
  

How to choose the best mobile device management software?

Choosing the right device management software for your organisation can be daunting, but focusing on a few key factors makes it simpler. First, think about the operating systems you use. Many free MDM solutions support multiple operating systems and device setup, including Android, iOS, and Windows. Make sure the software you choose is compatible with your devices.

• Security features are also super important. Look for MDM software that supports device encryption and remote wipe, so you can secure your devices in the event of loss or theft.
• Scalability is important too. Choose a solution that can grow with your business and manage more devices without compromising performance.
• User interface is also worth considering. A user-friendly interface can make a big difference in how easily your staff can use it, especially if you do not have much IT support.
• Overall value. While price is important, make sure the free MDM software offers the features and capabilities you need.
  
  

Why GroWrk is the top choice for free mobile device management

GroWrk is not just built for devices it is a tool designed to power teams to stay secure compliant and productive no matter where they are working from.

Here is what sets GroWrk apart:

• Tailored for teams that work remotely: get up and running with devices in over 150 countries with ease.
• AI driven IT support: get real time help and troubleshooting to prevent downtime and keep your team on track no matter what.
• One dashboard for all MDM needs: enrol configure and get Windows macOS and Linux devices set with your default security and software standards all in one place.
• Securing your devices from the start: remotely wipe lock and manage devices to keep your data safe and your business compliant.
• No surprise costs: Start with a free option scale as you grow with no hidden fees or nasty add ons to deal with.
• Built in sustainability: helping you responsibly recycle repurpose or retrieve devices to meet your environmental goals.

Looking for MDM that is made for how you work today. Schedule a demo and see how GroWrk makes device management a breeze even if you are working with a global team.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best free MDM software for Apple devices?

GroWrk is a top choice for managing Apple devices but Jamf Now is also worth a look if you are in a small business especially as they have a free MDM plan that covers the first three Apple devices.

Can I use free MDM software for both Android and iOS devices?

Yes many free MDM solutions like ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus cover both Android and iOS so you can easily manage mixed platforms across different operating systems.

Is free MDM software secure?

Most free MDM software comes with the basics covered data security protocols encryption and remote wipe to keep your sensitive data safe. But the level of security will vary from one solution to another.

Can free MDM solutions be used in small and medium businesses?

Yes free MDM solutions are perfect for small and medium businesses with limited budgets and they can help you keep a tight grip on your devices.

Do I need IT expertise to use free MDM software?

Some free MDM solutions are straightforward and do not need much technical know how but others like Headwind MDM or on premise solutions may need a bit more expertise to get the most out of them.