Mobile Device Management (MDM) is defined as software that secures, monitors, manages and supports mobile devices deployed across mobile operators, service providers and enterprises. MDM functionality includes over-the-air distribution of applications, data and configuration settings for all types of mobile devices, including mobile phones and smartphones and tablet devices.

MDM’s main objective is to provide a high level of security on a mobile communications network, while supporting multiple devices and continuing to reduce cost and downtime. This refers to both company-owned and employee-owned devices across the enterprise or mobile devices owned by consumers

The management of mobile devices continues to evolve. In the beginning phases of MDM, you had to connect your mobile device to the handset or install a SIM in order to make changes and updates, however then central remote management began. Central remote management allows an administrator to update or configure any devices.

Mobile Device Management includes many platforms including iOS and Android (News - Alert), eliminates high mobile support costs and unsecured employee owned phones and tables, while instituting a high level of mobile security.

Different types of user authentication methods, including basic, directory services or certificate-based provide a secure environment each time a user starts an application. When an application is in use, most MDM platforms have the ability to capture real-time device statistics such as OS, UDID, phone number, GPS location and the group it belongs to in the console and can notify a user when a recommended or required update is available.