Getting Started
The Device Management page in Settings is designed to be completed when you first join Electric. These settings will apply to your account going forward after the initial configuration. Specific configurations are required if your business uses Apple devices or a mix of Windows and Apple devices. Upon completing this process, you will gain access to all MDM technology and the benefits of being an Apple Business customer through your IT Hub account. Ensuring proper configuration is crucial for maximizing security, efficiency, and the seamless management of your device fleet.
Note: It is currently only available to Pro Package customers.
Enable MDM (Mobile Device Management)
Apple Devices (or Apple and Windows Devices)
To begin set up:
Login to the IT Hub
Select Settings in the top left menu
Click the Device Management tab
Select the Start MDM setup button
Choose the 'Yes we only use Apple Devices or a mix of Apple and Windows devices' radio button
Click the 'Set up MDM' button
Follow the steps outlined on the page
Click the Download CSR button
Note this will be needed for step e.
Sign in to the Apple Push Certificate portal
Please note you will need to create an Apple ID. We recommend creating a new Apple ID that is tied to a group email, or a shared inbox, and not a particular user. When it comes to MFA setup, use a business phone number.
Once signed in, click the 'Create a Certificate' button
Click the Choose File button
Select the CSR file in your Downloads folder
Click the Upload button
Enter your company's Apple ID. This is the same account that you used to log in to the Apple Push Certificate Portal
Click the 'Download' button to download your certificate
Note, this will be needed for step 9
Enter your Apple ID email address that you will use to manage all devices for your organization.
Upload the MDM push certificate
Click the 'Save MDM setup' button
You are all set!
Windows Devices
To begin set up:
Login to the IT Hub
Select Settings in the top left menu
Click the Device Management tab
Select the Start MDM setup button
Choose the 'No, we only use windows devices' radio button
Click the 'Set up MDM' button
You are all set!
Inviting your Employees to Install MDM
Once MDM is enabled in the IT Hub, you’ll need to invite your employees to install it. This invitation will provide them with clear instructions to easily set up MDM on their devices.
Login to the IT Hub
Select Settings in the top left menu
Click the Device Management tab
Enable MDM
Click the 'Email instructions' button
Select the employees you wish to send an invite to
Click the 'Preview email' button
Click the 'Send email' button
You are all set!
Connecting Apple Business Manager
To setup your ABM account:
Log in to the IT Hub
Select Settings in the top left menu
Click the Device management tab
In the Apple Business Manager section, click the Connect ABM button
Follow the steps outlined on the page
Click the Save button
You are all set!
FAQ
What is MDM and why is it important for my business?
MDM (Mobile Device Management) ensures that all employee devices are secure, compliant, and configured to Electric's security standards. With MDM, you gain peace of mind knowing your devices are protected against security threats, even when employees work remotely or on personal networks.
How does MDM benefit my organization?
MDM helps you:
Enhance Security: Automatically enforce security policies like encryption and password protection.
Enable Remote Actions: Lock or wipe devices remotely if they are lost, stolen, or part of an offboarding process.
Why do I need MDM if Electric manages my devices?
MDM works behind the scenes to ensure your devices are always compliant with Electric's pre-configured security policies. It enables features like remote locking and wiping, giving you an extra layer of control and flexibility when you need it.
What happens if I don't use MDM?
Without MDM, you risk leaving your devices and sensitive data vulnerable to breaches, unauthorized access, and compliance issues. MDM ensures that every device in your organization adheres to best practices for security and management.
Can I see the impact of MDM in the Electric IT Hub?
Yes! Through the Electric IT Hub, you can see which devices are protected by MDM and use powerful features like remote locking and wiping, ensuring your organization's security is always in your hands.
What is Apple Business Manager (ABM)?
Apple Business Manager (ABM) is a web-based portal that simplifies the deployment and management of Apple devices across your organization. It allows businesses to automate device setup, streamline app distribution, and manage Apple IDs for employees seamlessly.
How does Apple Business Manager benefit my business?
Zero-Touch Deployment: Devices can be pre-configured and shipped directly to employees, ready to use right out of the box.
Simplified App Distribution: Assign apps and content to employees without needing individual Apple IDs.
Centralized Control: Manage all your organization's Apple devices, apps, and accounts from a single platform.
Why should I use Apple Business Manager with Electric?
When paired with Electric, ABM integrates seamlessly with Mobile Device Management (MDM) to ensure devices are configured securely and ready for use. Electric handles the heavy lifting, so your devices are always compliant with company policies while you retain visibility and control.
What happens if I don't use Apple Business manager?
Without ABM, managing Apple devices becomes manual and inefficient, leaving gaps in security and consistency. ABM ensures devices are set up correctly, apps are deployed easily, and your organization’s data stays secure.
Is Apple Business Manager suitable for small businesses?
Yes! ABM is scalable and works for businesses of all sizes. It simplifies Apple device management, making it a valuable tool whether you have 2 employees or 20,000.
If you have additional questions, please contact our team at product-support@electric.ai