Looking for the best free device management software to secure and monitor your organization’s devices? This guide compares top-rated tools for remote teams and growing businesses—all without the price tag.
Mobile Device Management (MDM) software enables organizations to manage, monitor, and secure mobile devices used by their employees. MDM software ensures that mobile devices comply with organizational policies and standards by providing a centralized platform.
This comprehensive approach supports various operating systems, including Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS, making it versatile for different environments. With MDM, organizations can streamline device setup, enforce security policies, and maintain control over their mobile devices so they remain secure and efficient.
Mobile Device Management software typically includes various features that enable organizations to manage and secure their mobile devices effectively. Some key features of MDM software include:
Device enrollment and configuration management: Simplifies enrolling new devices and configuring them according to organizational policies.
App management and distribution: This feature allows administrators to manage and distribute apps across all managed devices, ensuring consistency and compliance.
Security policies and compliance management: This department enforces security policies to protect sensitive data and ensure devices comply with regulatory requirements.
Remote wipe and lock capabilities: This feature allows users to wipe or lock devices remotely in case of loss or theft, protecting sensitive information.
Automated patch management and software updates: Ensures devices are always up-to-date with the latest security patches and software updates.
Device tracking and location services enable the tracking of device locations to monitor device usage and ensure they are used only within authorized areas.
Monitor device usage and activity: Provides insights into how devices are being used, helping to identify potential security risks or misuse.
User-friendly interface: It offers an intuitive interface that simplifies device management, making it accessible even to users with minimal technical expertise.
Exploring free mobile device management options can be overwhelming. Here’s a quick look at 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: Comodo MDM
Best for integration with Microsoft ecosystem: Microsoft Intune
Best for versatility: SureMDM
Price:
Free trial available
Pros:
Easy onboarding process for remote employees
Centralized dashboard for device management
Secure data handling and remote wipe capabilities
Cons:
Limited advanced features in the free trial
GroWrk is designed for distributed teams and offers a streamlined approach to remote device management for hybrid workforces. Its easy onboarding process ensures remote employees can quickly set up their devices, while the centralized dashboard allows administrators to manage and monitor device usage efficiently. GroWrk also prioritizes security, with features like secure data handling and remote wipe capabilities to protect sensitive information.
The free trial provides a taste of GroWrk’s capabilities, though users may find the advanced features limited without a paid plan. Additionally, some organizations may need to integrate other tools to fully leverage GroWrk’s potential. GroWrk offers a user-friendly and secure mobile device management solution for businesses with remote teams.
Rating:
Price: 5/5
Design: 5/5
Features: 5/5
Usability: 5/5
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.
Price:
Free for up to 25 devices
Pros:
Fully functional with comprehensive features. It supports several platforms, including Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS.
User-friendly interface
Scalability
Cons:
The free version is limited to 25 devices
Rating:
Price: 4/5
Design: 4/5
Features: 5/5
Usability: 3/5
Jamf Now is tailored for businesses primarily using Apple devices, including Mac, iPad, and iPhone. Its straightforward setup process is accessible even to users without technical expertise, enabling small businesses to get up and running quickly. The software integrates smoothly within the Apple ecosystem, enhancing management efficiency for a seamless user experience.
While Jamf Now excels in managing Apple devices, it is exclusive to the Apple platform, which can be a drawback for organizations using Android or Windows devices. Jamf Now offers a practical, user-friendly MDM solution for small businesses focused on Apple products.
Price:
Free for up to 3 devices
Pros:
Easy setup process
Seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem
Effective for small businesses
Cons:
Limited to Apple devices
No support for Android or Windows
Rating:
Price: 3/5
Design: 5/5
Features: 4/5
Usability: 5/5
Comodo MDM is known for its strong security features, making it ideal for organizations prioritizing device security. The software offers advanced encryption and real-time threat detection capabilities, protecting sensitive data. Its integration with Microsoft Entra ID allows the implementation of conditional access policies to enhance further security for corporate resources.
However, users have noted a steeper learning curve, especially for those new to MDM. Performance issues may arise during heavy usage periods, affecting the overall user experience. Despite these challenges, Comodo MDM’s robust security features make it a reliable device management system for safeguarding devices and data.
Price:
Free
Pros:
Advanced encryption and real-time threat detection
Integration with Microsoft Entra ID
Comprehensive security tools
Cons:
Steeper learning curve
Performance may vary with usage
Rating:
Price: 4/5
Design: 3/5
Features: 5/5
Usability: 3/5
Microsoft Intune provides a unified management approach for organizations already using Microsoft services. It seamlessly integrates with Office 365 and Windows environments to facilitate efficient device management. Features like remote actions and endpoint analytics enhance its utility, enabling quick responses to security threats and real-time device health monitoring.
Users appreciate Intune's powerful capabilities, but the setup process can be complex. Familiarity with the Microsoft ecosystem is essential to fully leveraging Intune’s features. Intune offers a comprehensive and integrated device management service for businesses deeply embedded in the Microsoft environment.
Price:
Free
Pros:
Seamless integration with Microsoft products
Remote actions, including device locking and data wiping
Endpoint analytics for real-time monitoring
Cons:
Complex setup process
Requires familiarity with the Microsoft ecosystem
Rating:
Price: 4/5
Design: 4/5
Features: 5/5
Usability: 3/5
SureMDM is celebrated for its versatility, making it suitable for diverse business operations. It supports multiple device operating systems and is flexible for various user environments. Its robust remote management functionalities allow administrators to troubleshoot issues without physical access, improving efficiency.
SureMDM’s adaptability and support for various deployment methods make it a valuable device management solution for small and medium-sized businesses.
Price:
Free
Pros:
Supports multiple operating systems
Adaptable to various business operations
Robust remote support functionalities
Cons:
Performance inconsistencies during heavy usage periods
Rating:
Price: 4/5
Design: 4/5
Features: 4/5
Usability: 4/5
Mobile device management software can be deployed in various ways, depending on the organization’s needs and infrastructure. Some standard deployment options include:
Cloud-based deployment: MDM software is hosted in the cloud, allowing organizations to access it through a web-based interface. This option offers flexibility and scalability, with minimal on-premises infrastructure required.
On-premises deployment: MDM software is installed on the organization’s servers and managed internally. This option provides greater control over the software and data but requires more resources for maintenance and management.
Hybrid deployment: Combines cloud-based and on-premises deployment, where some features are hosted in the cloud, and others are managed internally. This approach balances flexibility and control, catering to specific organizational needs.
Imagine that your company wants to have zero-touch onboarding for each of its employees. You don't want to configure each device for access or security manually. Free MDM software can provide several benefits to organizations, including:
Cost savings: Free MDM software helps organizations save money on device management costs, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious businesses.
Easy deployment: Free MDM software is often easy to deploy and set up, requiring minimal technical expertise. This makes it accessible for organizations without dedicated IT staff.
Basic features: Free MDM software typically includes essential features such as device enrollment, app management, and security policies, providing a solid foundation for managing mobile devices.
Scalability: Free MDM software can be scaled up or down depending on the organization’s needs, allowing businesses to grow without significant additional costs.
While free Mobile Device Management software can provide several benefits, it also has some limitations, including:
Limited features: Free MDM software typically includes limited features and may not provide advanced security or management capabilities in paid solutions.
Limited support: Free MDM software often has limited support options and may not provide dedicated technical support, which can be a challenge for organizations needing immediate assistance.
Limited scalability: Free MDM software may not be able to scale up to meet the needs of large or complex organizations, potentially limiting its effectiveness as the business grows.
Security risks: Free MDM software may not provide the same level as paid solutions, leaving devices vulnerable to security risks and potential breaches.
By understanding the benefits and limitations of free MDM solutions, organizations can make informed decisions about the best mobile device management software to meet their needs.
Choosing the right device management software can be daunting, but focusing on key aspects simplifies the process. First, consider the operating systems used within your organization. Many free MDM solutions support various platforms, including Android, iOS, and Windows. Ensure the software you choose is compatible with your devices.
GroWrk isn’t just built for managing devices—it’s designed to power distributed teams with the tools they need to stay secure, compliant, and productive across the globe.
Here’s how GroWrk stands out:
Tailored for remote teams: Deploy, manage, and support devices in over 150 countries easily.
AI-powered IT support: Get real-time operational support and troubleshooting to minimize downtime and keep employees on track.
Centralized MDM dashboard: Enroll and configure Windows, macOS, and Linux devices with pre-set security and software standards.
Security-first features: Remotely wipe, lock, and manage devices to maintain compliance and protect sensitive data.
Transparent pricing model: Start free, scale as you grow—with no hidden fees or surprise add-ons.
Sustainability built-in: Responsibly recycle, repurpose, or retrieve devices to support your environmental goals.
Looking for MDM that’s built for the way you work today? Schedule a demo and discover how GroWrk makes remote device management simple, scalable, and secure.
GroWrk is the top choice for free MDM software to efficiently manage Apple devices like Macs, iPads, and iPhones. It offers a user-friendly interface and essential features tailored for Apple environments.
Yes, many free MDM solutions support both Android and iOS platforms, allowing you to manage multiple devices across different operating systems.
Most free MDM software includes basic security features such as data encryption and remote wipe capabilities to protect sensitive data. However, the level of security may vary between different solutions.
Yes, free MDM solutions are ideal for small and medium businesses, especially those with limited budgets. They provide essential management features to help businesses efficiently manage their devices.
While some free MDM solutions are user-friendly and require minimal technical knowledge, others may have a steeper learning curve and benefit from IT expertise for full utilization.