Mobile devices are a major source of business data breaches. While some companies require sophisticated closed-source MDM software, others prefer open-source solutions to protect their devices. Drawing upon my 17 years of cybersecurity experience, here is the top open-source MDM software to help you choose the right option:
Top 5 MDM software comparison
Features comparison (Part 1):
| Software | GitHub Stars | Supported Platforms | Location Tracking | Remote Control | Setting Device Policies |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Headwind MDM | 291 | Android | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Zentral | 777 | iOS, | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| MicroMDM | 2.3k | iOS, | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| FleetDM | 3.6k | Linux, | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Relution | NA | iOS, | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Features comparison (part 2):
| Software | API | Device Control | Host Integrity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Headwind MDM | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | |
| Zentral | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | |
| MicroMDM | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | |
| FleetDM | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | |
| Relution | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
- Ranking: From least to most GitHub stars.
- Sources: Product websites and developer platforms like Github. Features for which no information was found are marked as not offered.
- See more on comparison criteria and features highlighted above.
Vendors analyzed
1. Headwind MDM
Headwind MDM is an open-source solution for managing Android devices, particularly suitable for small to medium-sized businesses.
Pros:
- Comprehensive Android device management, including location tracking and remote control.
- Supports installation of custom applications.
- Allows enforcement of security policies across devices.
- Active community with continuous improvements.
Cons:
- Primarily designed for small deployments; may not scale well for larger enterprises.
- Documentation may be insufficient for users without technical expertise.
- Limited to Android devices; does not support iOS or other platforms.
2. Zentral
Zentral is an open-source platform combining MDM capabilities with endpoint visibility and monitoring, focusing on Apple devices.
Pros:
- Integrates MDM with endpoint visibility and monitoring.
- Offers powerful security features, including integration with tools like osquery.
- Suitable for enterprise-scale deployments.
- Customizable API for third-party app integrations.
Cons:
- Complex initial setup with numerous configuration options.
- Lacks location tracking and remote control features.
- Primarily focused on Apple devices; does not support Android.
3. MicroMDM
MicroMDM is an open-source MDM server aimed at managing Apple devices (iOS and macOS), offering a lightweight and modular approach.
Pros:
- Scalable solution, ideal for large deployments of Apple devices.
- Active community with regular updates.
- Comprehensive device policy management.
Cons:
- Lacks user-friendly features; may require technical expertise for setup and maintenance.
- Does not support location tracking or remote control functionalities.
- Limited to iOS and macOS; does not support Android or other platforms.
4. FleetDM
FleetDM is an open-source platform designed for IT, security, and infrastructure teams, supporting multiple operating systems.
Pros:
- Cross-platform support, including Linux, macOS, Windows, and Chrome OS.
- GitOps-enabled, facilitating integration with Git workflows.
- Provides visibility and control over endpoints.
- Active development with a growing community.
Cons:
- May require technical expertise for setup and configuration.
- Some advanced features may not be fully matured.
- Limited focus on mobile device management; more oriented towards laptops and desktops.
5. Relution MDM
Relution MDM is an open-source solution offering comprehensive device management features.
Pros:
- Provides a wide range of device management features, including app deployment and policy enforcement.
- Supports multiple platforms, ensuring versatility.
- User-friendly interface suitable for organizations without dedicated IT staff.
Cons:
- May have limitations in scalability for larger organizations.
- Some advanced features might require a subscription or additional licensing.
- Community support may be limited compared to more established solutions.
Comparison criteria & features
The criteria we used to compare the tools:
- GitHub stars: GitHub Stars can serve as a quick indicator of the popularity and community interest in an open source MDM (Mobile device management) software, suggesting its potential reliability and user satisfaction based on widespread adoption.
- Supported platforms: To ensure the MDM solution can manage all the device types used in your organization.
- Location tracking: This is an important feature since it allows continuous monitoring and recording of the geographic location of managed devices so the administrators can track their movement for security or operational purposes.
- Remote control: This feature allows the administrators to manage and troubleshoot mobile devices remotely, saving time.
- Setting device policies: This enables enforcement of security and compliance rules across all mobile devices.
- API for third-party apps: It allows integration with other software, enhancing functionality and customization.
- Device Control: Refers to the ability to control and manage external devices such as USB drives, peripherals, and other connected devices to prevent unauthorized access and data leakage.
- Host Integrity: Monitors and ensures the security status of devices by detecting any unauthorized changes to the system, such as malware or compromised configurations, which may pose a threat to the network.
Open Source MDM vs. Closed-Source
Open-source MDM software can be a great choice for businesses looking for transparency, flexibility, and cost-effective solutions. However, it’s important to weigh the trade-offs, such as the limited platform support or lack of certain advanced features, when compared to closed-source alternatives.
If your business requires extensive features, broader device compatibility, or higher levels of support, you may need to consider a commercial MDM solution.
We compared the top 5 open source MDM software on the market. If you would like more features and customization in your mobile device management solution, consider close-sourced MDM software.
FAQs
What is an open source MDM software?
Open source MDM refers to mobile device management software that provides access to its source code and allows organizations to manage and secure mobile devices, like Android and iOS devices, in a cost-effective manner. These open source MDM solutions offer features like device enrollment, remote configuration, location tracking, and remote control to manage devices, apply security policies, and ensure compliance. They are customizable, giving businesses flexibility to avoid vendor lock-in and reduce subscription costs, while benefiting from community support for new features and security patches. Examples include Headwind MDM and Flyve MDM.
Why use open-source MDM software instead of closed-source?
Using open-source MDM software instead of closed-source provides several advantages. First, it offers cost savings by eliminating subscription fees associated with commercial MDM solutions. Organizations can modify the source code to meet specific needs, whether for Android device management, iOS devices, or custom Android devices. Open-source MDM solutions like Headwind MDM and Flyve MDM help avoid vendor lock-in, allowing businesses to manage devices in a cost-effective manner while maintaining full control over security policies, device enrollment, and remote configuration.
Additionally, community support ensures continuous development of new features, security patches, and advanced features like remote wipe and location tracking, all while providing flexibility for on-premises or cloud-based deployment. Open-source MDM software is ideal for businesses seeking more control, network security, and customization compared to the limitations of closed-source MDM tools
When to use a closed-source MDM solution?
A closed-source MDM solution is ideal when a business prioritizes full support, advanced security, and compliance with stringent regulations. It often comes with dedicated customer support, remote control, and streamlined device management for managing Android devices, iOS devices, and Apple devices. Businesses may choose closed-source when they lack internal resources to maintain open-source MDM software or prefer the simplified setup, security patches, and features of a commercial product to ensure network security and user behavior monitoring without worrying about customization.
Comments
Your email address will not be published. All fields are required.