Apple Business Manager vs Mobile Device Management
ABM (Apple Business Manager) and MDM (Mobile Device Management) are both tools for managing Macs and other Apple devices, but they serve different purposes and offer different features. Here are some key differences between the two:
1. Device Enrollment: ABM provides device enrollment capabilities through Apple's Device Enrollment Program (DEP), which allows IT administrators to automatically enroll and configure devices without any manual intervention. MDM can also enroll devices, but it typically requires manual intervention on the part of the user.
2. Volume Purchase Program: ABM allows IT administrators to purchase and distribute apps and books in bulk through Apple's Volume Purchase Program (VPP). MDM can also distribute apps, but it typically requires users to manually install them.
3. Apple ID Management: ABM enables IT administrators to create and manage Apple IDs for employees, which can be used to access Apple services such as iCloud, iTunes, and the App Store. MDM does not offer this capability.
4. Device Supervision: ABM provides device supervision capabilities, which allow IT administrators to apply additional restrictions and configurations to devices that are under their control. MDM can also supervise devices, but it may have fewer configuration options.
5. Automated Device Configuration: ABM provides the ability to automatically configure devices with custom settings, such as Wi-Fi and VPN configurations, once they are enrolled in the system. MDM can also configure devices, but it typically requires manual intervention on the part of the user.
Overall, ABM provides additional features and capabilities beyond what MDM offers, such as device enrollment, volume purchase program, and Apple ID management. However, MDM remains a powerful tool for managing Apple devices, particularly for organizations that do not require the additional features provided by ABM.
