# Mobile device management

**What is mobile device management?**

Mobile device management (MDM) is the central administration of mobile phones, tablets and laptops. It lets you set configurations, distribute updates and lock or wipe a lost device remotely.

The trigger is usually a simple one. A phone carrying company email is left on a train. Without management you are left hoping for an honest finder. With management you lock the device and delete the company data.

Everyday use matters just as much. Through management you make sure the devices are encrypted, have a screen lock and receive updates even when nobody attends to them.

With private devices the separation has to be settled. Limit access to the business area of the device and record in writing what may be deleted and what may not. Fully wiping an employee's private device without a clear agreement is delicate.

## Related terms
- [Working securely from home](https://vetosec.at/en/it-security/homeoffice-sicherheit/)
- [Encryption](https://vetosec.at/en/it-security/verschluesselung/)
- [Permission model and least privilege](https://vetosec.at/en/it-security/berechtigungskonzept/)
- [IT asset inventory](https://vetosec.at/en/it-security/it-inventar/)

## Source
https://vetosec.at/en/it-security/mobile-device-management/ (vetosec, schutz)