I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, “a company’s greatest asset is their employees.” However, they can only be your greatest asset when they have the tools they need to be successful. For this, and many other reasons, many enterprises are offering Apple products to their employees.

This is especially true as the need and desire for flexible working environments has grown. offers simplified deployment and management, all while offering superior security, interconnectivity between devices, and productivity benefits for users.

As an added bonus, Apple devices are a popular choice as personal tech devices, meaning there’s a good change your employees are already familiar with using Mac, iPhone, and iPad at home. This familiarity is an added productivity bonus, on top of letting your employees utilize devices they already know and love for work.

The Availability of New Technologies and Ease of Updates

There’s a reason why Apple is the gold standard for new and shiny pieces of tech. With frequent and significant upgrades to hardware and their signature operating systems, iOS, macOS, and now iPadOS, Apple offers your employees the latest and greatest in digital technology.

Recently, Apple announced a at , their annual worldwide developers conference. The news included the reveal of , , and All three will be available to the general public sometime this fall. In the meantime, it’s time for IT to see how these updates will impact the enterprise’s IT environment and get prepared for the switch.

Thankfully, Apple makes this easy too. While there are third-party alternatives for managing software patches and updates, Apple offers a cloud-based service called Software Update, which enables IT teams to apply security patches and operating system updates.

The service also publishes patches and updates for frequently used applications such as Safari and iTunes for added efficiency. Mac is pointed to the service by default, which automatically notifies end users of any patches and updates they need to apply, and then prompts them to execute the downloads. For enterprises, putting self-service in the hands of your users keeps them focused and productive and reduces IT support tickets.

Apple Offers Unbeatable ROI

Beyond all the previously mentioned benefits of Apple devices in the enterprise, your business will see additional savings when it comes to IT.

A found that when organizations decided to implement an employee choice program and offer Mac, they “reduced IT support costs, improved employee productivity and engagement, and improved overall security.”

By reducing the amount of time spent managing devices and responding to the help desk, Apple helps reduce overall costs and lets IT focus on more important and complex tasks.

BONUS: Read our 2-part blog series that shares the ROI highlights from Forrester’s TEI study about Mac.

Apple Helps Enterprises Keep Data Safe

Security is on everyone’s mind right now. New threats are popping up every day and the financial ramifications of a successful cyberattack just keep growing.

To help reduce the risk that cyberthreats pose, Apple has gone to great lengths to ensure the use of Apple devices in the enterprise does not pose a security risk.

Here are a few of the strategies and technologies utilized by Apple to ensure security:

• Secure startup processes
• Extensive system safeguards
• Strong passcode policies
• The Apple T2 Security Chip
• Runtime protection, sandboxing, and other tools used to ensure downloaded apps are only accessing data in pre-authorized ways

Over the last few years, Apple has emerged as an industry leader when it comes to user data privacy and security and has taken a firm stance on data protection as a corporation. Find out more about Apple’s security strategies from Apple CEO Tim Cook’s presented at the most recent Computers Privacy and Data Protection (CPDP) Conference.

Apple Authorized Resellers Can Help Enterprises Get Started

Enterprises looking to implement Apple devices can work with Apple Authorized Resellers to get started, as well as utilizing them for ongoing maintenance and support. As an Apple Authorize Reseller, WEI can help you quickly and efficiently integrate Apple into your enterprise with full lifecycle support, so you can deliver the user experience your employees have come to expect.

Are You Ready to Empower Your Employees with Apple In The Enterprise?

Implementing Apple for those employees who consistently request them drives productivity, collaboration, and creativity throughout the enterprise. Many of our customers have already made the transition to a blended Windows and Apple environment that enables employees to enjoy how they use technology in their jobs. Find out how WEI can help you create efficiencies with Apple device management and how our specialized services can help you roll out a user experience that will empower your employees to do their best work. Contact WEI today to find out how we are helping our employees deploy and manage Apple in the enterprise with full lifecycle support.

NEXT STEPS: Get our official guide to everything you need to know to prepare for offering Apple in the Enterprise in our exclusive eBook below.

The post Why Apple Is Gaining Traction In The Enterprise appeared first on IT Solutions Provider - IT Consulting - Technology Solutions.

For many enterprises, devices have become the next step forward in offering employees the user experience they want. However, the implementation and administration of Mac, iPad, iPhone, and other Apple devices have created unique challenges for many IT organizations that were unfamiliar with the Apple provisioning model. As part of our commitment to helping enterprises start their Apple journey on the right foot, we’ve compiled the top 5 most frequently asked questions we receive about deploying Apple in the enterprise and our answers.

1. Are Apple Devices Secure Enough?

Security is often top of mind whenever new technology is being introduced at the enterprise, and for good reason. Thankfully, , with advanced security built into every product from the ground up.

From system security, to data security, to app security, Apple has gone to great lengths to ensure the use of Apple in the workplace does not pose a security risk.

Here are a few of the strategies and technologies utilized by Apple to ensure security:

• Secure startup processes
• Extensive system safeguards
• Strong passcode policies
• The Apple T2 Security Chip
• Runtime protection, sandboxing, and other tools used to ensure downloaded apps are only accessing data in pre-authorized ways

In fact, Apple is emerging as an industry leader when it comes to user data privacy and security and has taken a firm stance on data protection as a corporation. In case you missed it, you can watch 12-minute opening keynote presented at the most recent Computers Privacy Data Protection (CPDP) Conference.

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Real Tech with WEI Customer Question video series

Misconceptions of Apple in the Enterprise

2. Is Implementation More Complex?

Once the decision has been made to begin offering an Apple as a Choice program to employees, the next step is to plan for implementation. To make the process of rolling out Apple in the enterprise as simple as possible, we can break down the process into four steps:

• Preparation – This phase includes planning for integration with your network and other key infrastructure, as well as setting up any other systems that are required for deployment.
• Set Up – In this step, enterprises define corporate policies for data management and security, as well as setting up your mobile device management (MDM) solution.
• Deployment – Once preparation and set up are complete, enterprises can begin deployment and distribution of Apple throughout the workforce.
• Management – The final step of the process is ongoing management and maintenance of devices, which is made easier through the selected MDM and by partnering with an Apple Authorized Reseller, like WEI.

To guide enterprises through the process of implementation, Apple has created a which goes into detail on each of the above steps.

3. How Do Apple Devices Compare When it Comes to Administration?

Ensuring your team is prepared for maintenance and provisioning is vital to successful implementation and administration. Working with an Apple Authorized Reseller like WEI is critical here. We can educate your team on best practices and build them right into your processes. Or you can offload a lot of the administration work to WEI’s team of Apple experts.

While there are third-party alternatives for managing software patches and updates, Apple does offer a cloud-based service called Software Update, which enables IT teams to apply security patches and operating system updates. The service also publishes patches and updates for frequently used applications such as Safari and iTunes for added efficiency. Mac is pointed to the service by default, which automatically notifies end users of any patches and updates they need to apply, and then prompts them to execute the downloads. Putting self-service in the hands of your users keeps them focused and productive and reduces IT support tickets. Which leads us to our next FAQ

4. Do Apple Devices Complicate the Help Desk?

When it comes to user support, it really is only as complex as you make it. Communication with employees and offering specific instructions to users that make it clear who they need to contact with questions goes a long way to simplifying the help desk experience for both IT and employees.

Another way of simplifying the user experience for those employees using Apple devices is to utilize self-service applications, which can act like an app store where IT can post software that has been tested, an additional browser, or a plugin for their email program, etc. Approved applications like these can be installed to machines automatically with a simple click. Users know the applications are safe to use, and IT does not need to be involved in the installation process.

Plus, there is a good chance an overwhelming majority of your employees have personal familiarity with from using Mac and iPad at home and doing almost everything else in their life with iPhone. Familiarity with Apple cannot be overlooked and your employees will appreciate using a tool they know and love for work.

5. Can WEI Help Enterprises Get Started?

Absolutely! We are experts in helping enterprises implement Apple, as well as providing ongoing maintenance and support. Our enterprise IT experts will work closely with your team to streamline the deployment of the new Apple technology. We can also show you all the tools available to ease the integration of new devices into your organization, and how to best use them to your advantage. We know the best practices based on our own experience and we’ve been partnering with Apple since 2012. We can help create efficiencies throughout the entire lifecycle: deployment, provisioning, and maintenance. Our customers consider WEI an extension of their team.

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Real Tech with WEI Customer Question video series

How to create efficiencies when managing Apple devices for the enterprise

Ready to Start Offering Apple in YOUR Enterprise?

Offering Apple as a choice to your employees drives productivity, collaboration, and creativity throughout the enterprise. It’s true, and we wrote a whole blog post about it here! Many of our customers have already made the transition to a blended Windows and Apple environment that enables employees to enjoy how they use technology in their jobs. It’s really about providing your employees with the power of choice so they can be happier in their jobs and do their best work. and we can help you get started and answer any questions you have.

NEXT STEPS: We’re here to help you prepare for Apple in YOUR enterprise. Our eBook below is jam-packed with insights, best practices, and guides to help you prepare your team for Apple. Check out the eBook below and then reach out to our team with your questions. We’re here to offer guidance and support as much as possible as you develop your Apple device management strategy.

The post Top 5 FAQs About Apple and Mac In The Enterprise appeared first on IT Solutions Provider - IT Consulting - Technology Solutions.

When we talk about Mac in the workplace, many typecast the typical corporate Mac user as someone working in marketing or creative departments. Let’s start out with a couple of statistics from the . The purpose of the study was to determine the key drivers of Mac adoption within enterprises today. The one thing in common amongst all survey participants was that they used a Mac at work. Participants held multiple job roles working for companies of all sizes and industry sectors. Here are a few of the findings:

• 50% of respondents from the Engineering department along with 56% of those who held HR roles said they prefer Apple products

Now, there is certainly nothing surprising here. Apple users are passionate about their beloved devices. But here is where the findings take an unexpected turn:

• 54% of HR employees stated that Apple devices work best with the apps and resources they need to do their job. 44% of Mac users in the Engineering department said the same.
• 54% of HR employees found Apple products more reliable. 58% of IT workers expressed similar sentiment.

In fact, 83% of respondents in the job roles of IT and HR felt that using a Mac was critical to their job function. This sentiment was expressed by 79% of respondents across the board.

Increased job performance

Regardless of their job role, these Mac users recognized the value that their Mac brought to their job roles. Some of their stated benefits of using a Mac included the following:

• 97% claimed increased productivity
• 95% claimed increased creativity
• 94% claimed self-sufficiency with technology
• 91% acknowledged increased collaboration

When asked to compare the usability of their Mac versus a PC, 89% stated that Mac applications are easier to use than Windows applications. Ease of use translates into greater productivity, which feeds greater innovation.

More application choice

While some may still cling to the idea that PCs offer a greater enterprise application selection, this outdated notion is not experienced by Mac users. 94% of respondents said it was very or moderately easy to find Mac applications and other resources that pertained to their job functions. Nearly 2 in 3 leverage the App Store to find the applications they need. It wasn’t just choice that Mac users appreciated, however. 89% agreed that Mac applications are easier to use than applications on PCs.

Greater reliability

Of course, performance and app selection mean very little if your computer isn’t functioning correctly. Here is what reliability looks like:

• 40% of respondents experienced no issues with their Mac for a 12-month period
• 70% cited having no more than 2 issues within the same 12-month period

Anyone familiar with helpdesk operations knows how disruptive and costly computer problems are for a business. But don’t loop Mac in the same pool as PCs when it comes to performance irregularity. 74% of those survey participants stated that they experienced less problems with their Mac than a previous PC. Reliability was the second most touted reason amongst participants for using a Mac.

Employee choice programs

Most would agree that having a choice of options is a good thing. There are endless examples of businesses that discovered new opportunities by opening themselves up to new ways of doing things. Yet, so many enterprises today continue to only offer PCs to their employees.

Employees are like everyone else, they value choice. In fact, 94% of workers say they are more likely to choose an employer who offers an employee device choice program.

Some may scoff that these preferences attribute to the greater familiarity of Mac users who exclusively use Apple products at home. In actuality, this is good thing. Wouldn’t you want your employees to use the same technology platform that they openly embrace and prefer in their personal lives? The familiarity and personal devotion that Mac users have to the will most likely encourage them to utilize these devices even more. Having a consistent computer platform at home and work eliminates the frustration of learning curves whenever new product features and updates are released.

Automated Zero-touch Deployment

Mac isn’t just about individual choice and user preferences. IT admins will appreciate the greater manageability offered today with . IT can now automate zero-touch deployments for Mac by configuring their MDM system for Auto Advance. Upon arrival, simply power up your newly ordered Mac with an Ethernet connection and it will automatically locate the MDM solution assigned to it. Settings are then configured in the background, eliminating the need for setup assistant screens. Users only need to enter a username and password to begin working.

MDM management doesn’t end with deployments, however. Some of the other capabilities include the following.

• Mac can be started, shutdown and rebooted remotely, even if unresponsive.
• Software updates now begin in the background and admins can defer them when necessary.
• User-approved MDM enrollments are now considered supervised, giving internal IT more control and greater management flexibility.
• Admins can now prevent users from removing mission critical managed apps.

Security is a priority

Mac offers best-in-class security thanks to the combination of its new Apple M1 chip and new Big Sur macOs, which touts as the biggest design upgrade since the introduction of Mac OS X. Enhanced security includes secure boot, automatic high-performance encryption for all files and new cryptographically signed system volumes that protect against malicious tampering. The software update processes now take place in the background, ensuring that the OS remains secure and up to date.

Greater choice of platforms

Freedom of choice isn’t just about Windows or Mac. Apple offers different platform options for Mac users as well so that companies can match each job role with the device that also works for departmental budgets as well.

• The  – Apple’s thinnest and lightest notebook still offers the speed and performance that is expected of Mac products thanks to the new Apple M1 chip. It offers accelerated performance of both an 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU, all within a silent, fanless design that gives users up to 18 hours of battery life.
•  (13 inch) – Apples’ most popular professional notebook that still boasts a 3-pound design that features an advanced 16-core Neural Engine provides more machine learning power for business apps. The perfect choice for even the most complex and robust workflows including video and photography editing. With superfast unified memory and a battery life of up to 20 hours, it is still the reigning champion.
•  – Still the desktop standard, this do-it-all productivity machine offers 3x faster CPU performance, 6x faster graphics and a powerful Neural Engine that offers 15x faster machine learning, all in an ultracompact design that can’t be beat.

The question of choice

With all of these benefits and user accolades, the question is no longer “should we offer Mac to our employees?” The clear question is now, “why would we not offer Mac to our employees?”

NEXT STEPS: We’ve compiled all the Apple best practices, important questions to ask and the critical details for offering Mac as a Choice in your organization in our eBook below, “An IT Leader’s Guide to Preparing for Apple in the Enterprise.” Click below to start reading, and then contact us with all your Apple questions. WEI is an Apple Authorized Reseller and we’re here to help!

Apple, the Apple logo, Mac, macOS, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro and Mac mini are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

The post Mac at Work: Why Your Company Should Offer Mac as a Choice appeared first on IT Solutions Provider - IT Consulting - Technology Solutions.

In today’s digital world, the technology you deploy in the enterprise can make or break the productivity of your business. The blending of work life and home life is becoming more intertwined, and users wants to be able to do the best version of their work on the devices in which they feel most comfortable using. This growing popularity and favoritism of Apple products really isn’t new per se, but there’s been an influx of questions from IT professionals regarding the best strategies for integration and management of , , and in their established IT environment.

We spent some time collecting our thoughts on the critical steps an organization can take to position them for success when offering and managing Apple products across the enterprise, and we hope you will find these tips helpful as you address your own Apple device management strategy.

Questions to ask before integrating Apple products in your enterprise

Let’s start at the top with key questions to ask when initially considering offering Apple as a choice for your business. These questions will be instrumental to the design and/or refinement of your Apple strategy.

1. How tightly integrated do these devices need to be within the organization?
   Your business is unique, as is your IT environment and your IT processes. A marketing agency may require Mac throughout the office and for remote workers, a retailer may be interested in utilizing iPad for store management apps or iPhone for quick checkout and returns, while a healthcare organization may only seek to augment their mobile strategy with iPhone and iPad for more accessible patient care. All these scenarios require a unique approach and discussing them with key stakeholders will be important in determining your requirements.
2. How will the addition of these devices benefit performance and productivity?
   Where are you seeing an abundance of support tickets? Can Mac or other Apple devices circumvent these common issues? In a global survey of those who use , 70% of respondents experienced 2 or fewer issues on their Mac within the last 12 months, and half of those reported zero issues in 12 months.
3. How widely available do Apple devices need to be throughout the enterprise?
   Will only specific employees need to utilize Apple devices, or should they be available to every employee? Are there any unique job requirements that would be better served if the work is done on Mac? Do you manage a distrusted enterprise or large campus? Consider the implications of device use at your branch offices and data center locations.
4. Where and how are users connecting to the network?
   Are all users on-premises or does the enterprise support a large remote workforce? Do most employees connect over wired networks, or is it all about wireless? How many different devices could be connected to the network at the same time by one user? Should some apps get restricted access based on user location or will they require two-factor authentication for access? These questions fuel great conversation that can help you fully understand how your users will connect and their unique requirements.

How important is VPN support? In regulated industries, compliance can be a defining factor in determining which devices gain adoption within the enterprise. That’s why it’s also a good idea to examine the elements of compliance that need to be upheld, and factor them in when creating an Apple deployment strategy.

3 Success Factors for your Enterprise Apple Device Management Strategy

Success with Apple in the enterprise is twofold: you have to keep users happy and productive, as well as the IT team managing and executing the strategy. To ensure your enterprise can effectively utilize Apple, we have shared our top three factors for success below.

1. Prioritize the Most Important Integration Points

   
   

When implementing Apple in the enterprise, it is critical to have a firm plan in place and a deep understanding of the integration points where Apple devices and your enterprise will intersect.

Authentication is one of, if not the most important integration point when implementing Apple in the enterprise. One key method to ensure all technology, including Apple devices, align with your enterprise’s global security and compliance standards is to adopt authentication tools and techniques that accommodate a broad set of use cases while still offering granular access control. This requires the ability to authenticate based on user, device, or application, and to enforce policies for Apple devices whether they are being used on-site, via VPN, or even in airplane mode.

Device provisioning and management is another important integration point and is often an area of challenge for IT organizations due to the sheer volume of devices that must be managed for enterprise-scale businesses. However, there are a number of mobile device management (MDM) solutions that can help simplify the process and help ensure the successful integration and utilization of Apple in the enterprise. , we’ve helped a number of our enterprise customers deploy different MDM solutions that align with their unique business.

2. Consider the Skillsets of Your IT Staff

   
   

When planning your Apple device management strategy, it’s important to consider the impact of the required processes on your IT staff. Depending on the skillsets and workload of your IT team, as well as the scale of your Apple device deployment, you may need to hire specific staff to manage the Apple devices used throughout your enterprise.

A good rule of thumb for staffing is to ensure you have enough capacity to manage Apple devices throughout their entire lifecycles, from the early stages of purchasing and provisioning, to ongoing maintenance and updating.

It’s also critical to consider working directly with an Apple Authorized Reseller that can take on many of the deployment and management aspects, as well as the repeated tasks, so you can free up your staff for more specialized troubleshooting or innovative projects.

3. Plan For Lifecycle Management

   
   

Overall, managing Apple devices is not all that different from Microsoft, Google, or Linux operating systems. However, there are several key differences that can require additional planning when compared to other devices, and lifecycle management is one of them.

The following areas all have minor differences that must be considered when utilizing Apple, and developing a plan for full lifecycle management will set you up for success.

1. Purchasing – The procurement process could be slightly complex for those who do not have experience procuring Apple products for business, and to reduce costs and simplify acquisition, many enterprises work with an Apple Authorized Reseller. Having a specific vendor for Apple can also simplify the institutional ownership process for those devices, as well as the Apple device enrollment process. As an Apple Authorized Reseller since 2012, we highly recommend collaborating with us during the procurement and deployment process. We have tried and true best practices engrained in our processes and we transfer that knowledge directly to your team.
2. Provisioning and Maintenance – In addition to the wide array of third-party MDMs available to simplify the provisioning process, you can also make provisioning a part of the purchasing process and involve your Apple Authorized Reseller in the process. The right partner can take on delivery of all Apple devices and configure their access levels, OS versions, settings, and application sets for the users who will ultimately receive them. Did we mention we can ship them directly to each user complete customized and ready to go right out of the box? We do this regularly for several of our largest enterprise customers, and from what we hear, our customers really appreciate this extra level of care.
3. Secure Repair – This is a subject even those outside IT have experienced. Apple device repair may not be as simple and straightforward as it is for other devices. It’s the security aspect that requires a different level of care. It’s the job of IT to develop and enforce a repair service level agreement that provides the following assurances:
   • A warranty provider of repair services
   • Device lockdown during transport
   • The ability to audit for compliance and enforce custom security measures
   • Secure disposal of components and devices, including wipe clean service
   • Rapid provisioning and delivery for loaner devices during service
   • Stocking replacement devices so they’re ready when needed

[Get the full picture of how WEI can help with Apple in our Service Brief below]

Where are you running into challenges? How can we help?

Despite the unique considerations that must be taken into account when implementing Apple at the enterprise level, it is not nearly as intimidating as it may seem. And once implemented, Apple devices throughout the enterprise. Overall, the key to Apple device implementation success can be summarized in a simple word: planning. And you’ll benefit from partnering with WEI regardless of where you are in your Apple device management strategy. Ask us how we can augment what you’re already doing, increase efficiencies, and reduce operational costs throughout the lifecycle. to start a discussion.

Next Steps: Explore more about Apple! Our eBook is jam-packed with best practices, tips for improving efficiencies, and additional points to consider when planning your Apple or Mac as a Choice program. We invite you to download a copy below and share it with your team.

The post Top 3 Success Factors for Your Enterprise Apple Strategy appeared first on IT Solutions Provider - IT Consulting - Technology Solutions.

Apple has a product to suit all aspects of your life with a platform that supports apps for your hobbies and entertainment, storage for your memorable photos and videos, and everything in between, including work. If you think about it, Apple is your “digital workplace” and companies large and small recognize the benefits of extending Apple products across their business and making them available to employees. Your employees desire flexibility and the option to work anytime from anywhere from the devices that they prefer. With freedom of choice, employees have more control over their work experience, resulting in higher job satisfaction and increased productivity. Enterprises report that the majority of their staff members prefer Apple devices.

Apple helps companies empower their employees through personalized, optimized work environments. On the tech side, Apple Business Manager enables seamless setup and support of Apple products. It has become easier and more cost-effective than ever to give your employees the freedom to choose. But you also have to secure those devices. With the growing number of devices an employee uses to do their job effectively, security becomes a critical conversation point. As an IT leader trying to support a growing and constantly evolving remote workforce, it becomes even more critical to discuss security.

3 Ways Apple Focuses on Security

A 2019 survey showed that 97 percent of after switching from Windows. Because Apple allows users to personalize their devices so extensively, their devices become an extension of who they are. Apple products also help stimulate creativity and encourage collaboration amongst team members. As a result, enterprise users are embracing Apple products everywhere, creating cohesive ecosystems that are increasing levels of productivity for their organizations.

What about security? In an era in which enterprise users are constantly under attack by malicious forces made up of hackers, cybercriminals, bots and automated malware, imagination and teamwork don’t necessarily correlate with security. Ingenuity and collaboration is paramount, but security is also paramount. In the traditional world, security isn’t supposed to be fun. For CISOs, compliance surpasses personalization.

Security can coexist alongside inspiration and creativity. Apple has found the proper balance between freedom and security, usability, and sanctuary. Apple has managed to assure an enhanced user experience that is secure at the same time. While users love their Mac, they hate passwords, and who doesn’t. The ordeal of juggling multiple elongated passwords that must perpetually be changed is aggravating and in the end compromises security. So, Apple does authentication a better way. Apple’s unique security system called Secure Enclave enables Touch ID and Face ID to provide secure authentication.

1. Security at the Hardware level

In order for security to be effective, it cannot be an afterthought. Apple just didn’t encapsulate layers of security. Security is built into the hardware itself. Its are actually designed into silicon, making them secure by design.

Take the example of Secure Enclave used for ID. utilizes a separate and dedicated hardware processor to handle the biometric information of the user during authentication. Think of it as a separate computer dedicated just for security. It boots separately from the rest of the device and runs its own microkernel in total isolation. It is there in 4 MB of flash storage that the unique keys of that device reside. The OS never even sees the keys. All of this makes it next to impossible for hackers to decrypt sensitive information without having direct physical access to your device.

Security begins long before the ID process, however. The Secure Enclave Boot ROM is immutable code that establishes a hardware trust process from the moment the device is powered up. A secure boot process, which also runs in isolation to the rest of the device, builds a chain of trust through software, where each step ensures that the next is functioning properly before handing over control. This guarantees that only trusted code and apps run on the device.

Of course mobile devices demand encryption today and all Apple devices have encryption features to safeguard user data, even when other elements of the infrastructure have been compromised. Current iOS and iPad devices use file encryption methodology called Data Protection, while the data on Mac computers is protected with a volume encryption technology called FileVault. Both leverage a dedicated AES engine that is enabled out of the box in order to support line-speed encryption, ensuring that long-lived encryption keys never need to be provided to the kernel OS or CPU. In the case of device theft or loss, all Apple devices are protected by remote wipe, so all data is safeguarded.

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Real Tech with WEI (Extended Cut)

Apple in the Enterprise

2. Security at the Software level

We all know software is the most vulnerable to malicious code. That is why Apple provides multiple layers of protection in order to combat malware. It all starts with the OS, and that means that devices must stay updated in order to garner the most secure code possible. All software updates are authorized to ensure that only software provided by Apple is installed. Not only does the internal software update mechanism ensure that updates are timely, it prevents downgrade attacks so devices cannot be rolled back to an earlier OS version as a method of attack.

With so many apps available for, one may wonder how Apple is able to ensure the integrity of each and every one of them. Well, here’s how:

• Apple verifies the identity of all developers before they can participate in an Apple Developer Enterprise Program
• In-house apps must be signed and provisioned with a certificate provided by Apple
• Apps in the App Store are reviewed by Apple to confirm no significant bugs nor any compromise of privacy
• All MAC apps must be notarized by Apple in order to launch to confirm the absence of any malware even if downloaded outside of the App Store

As a stopgap measure, Apple integrates internal sandboxing in order to protect user data from unauthorized access by Apps. In fact, data in critical areas of the macOS is even sandboxed, ensuring that users remain in control of all facets of the device interface. The end result is that users can download, install and run any app on their Apple device with total confidence that the apps themselves are only accessing their data in authorized ways.

In today’s mobile world, network traffic must be protected on-premises and off. That is why Apple devices support standard such as VPN and secure Wi-Fi to ensure that users have a secure connection with the corporate infrastructure regardless of location.

Being locked down doesn’t have to stifle the user experience. Apple has definitely found a way to achieve the utmost security and protection of their devices, without compromising usability. Apple has always been dedicated to the idea that the interaction between users and their devices should be individualized. At the same time however, Apple also ensures that all interactions are uniformly secured as well. That is the balance that Apple has achieved and will continue to maintain.

3. Security Across the Lifecycle

Just as you shouldn’t ask your employees to buy their Apple devices at a mall, you shouldn’t ask them to take their devices to a retail storefront for repair. While convenient for consumers, these walk-in services may not be compliant with enterprise-class security requirements, especially when compliance is at stake. Retired hard drives, SSDs, logic boards or entire devices may, for example, end up in the trash, resold or taken home by employees. And access to the device’s applications and data may not be regulated, monitored or restricted in these environments.

The best way to ensure total compliance and security is to develop and enforce a repair service level agreement that provides you with, at a minimum, the following assurances:

• A warranty provider of repair services
• Device lock-down during transport
• The ability to audit for compliance and enforce custom security measures
• Secure disposal of components and devices, including wipe clean service
• Rapid provisioning and delivery for loaner devices during service
• Stocking replacement devices so they’re ready when needed

Ready to Get Started? Ask us you Apple Security Questions

WEI can help you quickly and efficiently integrate Apple into your enterprise with full lifecycle support, so you can deliver the new digital workplace experience your users have come to expect. We have been an Apple Authorized Reseller In addition to our partnership with Apple, WEI promotes a market-leading ecosystem of complimentary tools and technologies designed to integrate, manage, secure, and support iOS and Mac OS within any organization. If you have questions about introducing Apple into your enterprise environment, let’s talk. Leverage WEI’s extensive knowledge of Apple products and services while WEI engineers collaborate with you and your team to design custom solutions and build best-practices that are affordable and sustainable for years to come.

NEXT STEPS: Learn more about how to prepare for Apple in your enterprise by reading our ebook. Click below to get started.

The post Apple Sets the Security Standard in the Digital Workplace appeared first on IT Solutions Provider - IT Consulting - Technology Solutions.

When it comes to employee productivity, few things are as beneficial as allowing each user to choose the tools that work best for them. For IT, this means creating an environment that allows employees to pick their preferred OS platform. When given the choice, many users will choose a .

In order to properly integrate Mac into the enterprise network, IT needs the knowledge to ensure smooth implementation and ongoing support. Mac is not particularly difficult or overly complex to manage; but the processes for provisioning, securing, patching and updating are different compared to the processes associated with other operating systems. Therefore, IT teams do not usually have a solid understanding of how to apply the same deployment and management processes to Mac.

To help make your Mac deployment as smooth as possible, we’re sharing best practices from the WEI team, based on our own experience in managing Mac in the workplace.

1. Understand How Apple Provisioning Works

While provisioning Mac is not overly complex, the process differs significantly from the more traditional imaging process. More specifically, Apple provisioning is done through the , which runs in the cloud and can be accessed through the application.

After registering device serial numbers in DEP, IT will enroll the devices in a mobile device management (MDM) tool. The tool allows IT to set up group policy objects (GPO), which includes settings for the configuration profiles of users according to their designated user group. It also indicates which applications users should see on their desktop and their security access settings. This process, while not complex, is often completely foreign to IT teams who have only worked in Windows environments.

The most important benefit of Apple’s process is that, because the MDM installs the applications and the settings to the devices via the , end users can start working without IT ever having to physically touch their Mac during the provisioning process.

2. Deliver Updates to Mac Efficiently

The process for applying security patches and OS updates for Mac is simplified with a free service from Apple called macOS Updates.

For Mac, it can be especially important to test different device configurations to make sure patches and updates won’t break any operating systems and applications in the environment. Specific services to test include the ability to log into email, utilize VPN services, and access files in shared drives. It’s especially important to test when deploying antivirus software, which can sometimes break the OS and cause machines to crash.

To manage the process, it’s best to utilize a dedicated Apple Software Update Server, but an alternative to purchasing it is to manage and test patches on Windows and Linux machines. Open source tools, such as Reposado and Munki, which run on MDM platforms from Jamf and AirWatch, can act just like Apple’s software update mechanisms, allowing IT to push updates to end users the same way they would do so from the update server.

[Featured video]

3 Reasons Why Employees Prefer Apple Devices in the Digital Workplace

3. Secure Mac With Authentication Measures

The primary way to ensure Mac security is two-factor authentication. In addition to requiring user names and passwords, IT can require users to request a code that is sent via a text message that they have to enter to gain access. Alternatively, IT can give users a thumb drive to plug into their devices. Without either the code or the thumb drive, users cannot log in and authenticate their identity.

For user identity services, Active Directory is the primary tool that IT teams will be familiar with. However, Mac can have performance issues when joined directly to it. To simplify the process, IT teams can use tools like Apple Enterprise Connect and Jamf Connected to eliminate the need for local machines to be directly joined to Active Directory, while also tracking account credentials on local machines. This approach simplifies the login process for end users while still giving IT departments the ability to enforce policies, such as requiring users to change passwords every three months.

4. Simplify Support for Mac

Our final best practice tip is the most important: Do everything in your power to simplify technical support for your Mac users. The easier it is for users to get the technical support they need, the easier it will be for IT to deploy and administer Mac. The first step is ensuring that your Mac device users know exactly who to contact when they have issues. This will ensure users can get the help they need quickly and efficiently, reducing the likelihood of security risks or other issues going ignored and speeding along the updating and patching process.

Self-service applications, run by tools from Jamf and Munki that behave similarly to the App Store, can reduce support desk phone calls and tickets. This is due to users having access to already approved and safe applications whenever they need them.

Additionally, the ability to run simple maintenance tasks to fix minor issues will also help users feel empowered and ensure little problems get fixed quickly, instead of sitting in the IT queue.

Are You Ready To Deploy Mac?

Implementing Mac for those employees who consistently request them drives productivity, collaboration and creativity throughout the enterprise. For IT teams, especially those without prior Mac experience, initial deployment can seem complex, but by following the best practices we outlined above, as well as making use of the business tools Apple offers, your users can be up and running in no time.

NEXT STEPS: As an Apple Authorized Reseller, WEI has extensive knowledge of Apple products. Our Apple services are customized to your unique business and always incorporate Apple deployment and management best practices. Learn more by visiting our Apple page or check out our refreshed tech brief, “Five Steps For Digital Workplace Success With Apple.”

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In part of one this two-part blog series, we discussed the recent study by Forrester Research outlining the economic impact of Macs in the enterprise. The study showed that while the initial purchase price of a Mac is $500 more than a comparable PC, its true cost is actually $50.25 less over a 3-year product cycle once hardware and software costs are accounted for. The disparity in costs is even more pronounced once supporting costs such as provisioning, deployment, help desk tickets and energy are factored in. Forrester found the resulting cost savings to be $678.56. In the end, TCO matters far more than the initial price tag.

Little cost savings that add up big returns

In part one of this two-part blog post, we outlined some of the substantial savings that seven companies realized in provisioning and support costs after allowing their employees to transition to Macs through recently implemented employee choice programs. The appreciated cost savings was experienced from many other facets as well though.

For instance, a Mac requires less energy to operate, 50 percent to be exact. Not only does that mean lower energy costs per device, but it also means greater productivity as users can operate on battery for longer periods of time. Decreasing the dependency on power cords means that work can get done whenever and wherever it needs to.

Saving time translates into saving money

PC users are used to waiting. In fact, PC users spend 5 minutes per day just waiting on tasks such as wake or reboot. Compare this to who only spend 1 minute per day. All in all, the study went on to show that Mac users regain 48 hours of improved productivity per year. Now multiply this recapture of time by the average hourly wage of your employees. Then multiply that figure by your number of employees. Forrester goes on to estimate that organizations comparable in size to those that participated in the study can expect 10,000 users to choose Macs the first year of the program. This is based on a 10 percent transition rate the first year, which increases to 20 percent and 30 percent in years 2 and 3 respectively. In business, minutes can quickly compound into serious savings.

Improved employee performance and retention

The productivity gains realized by Mac conversion is due to more than just reduced startup times however. Because the hardware and software operate in seamless cohesion with one another, the machine operates better, thus reducing employee frustration and nonacceptance. It also improved employee engagement which led to improved retention rates. In fact, employees who chose a Mac showed a 20 percent improvement in employee retention rate compared to their fellow PC users.

This recognized boost in productivity has been found elsewhere too. In an article published in , IBM, after implementing a Mac program four years prior, realized a savings of $543 per Mac compared to a PC (a figure very similar to the Forrester Study). They also found that Mac users tended to close sales deals that were 16 percent larger on average than Windows users. Mac users were also 17 percent less likely to leave IBM. No one will debate the expensive cost of employee turnover.

Great security translates into direct cost savings

No article comparing computer platforms would be complete without mentioning security. According to benchmark research conducted by the Ponemon Institute in 2018, the likelihood of a data breach within an organization is 14 percent per year. The Forrester study showed that this likelihood was reduced by 50 percent per device when switching to a Mac. One of the study participants noted they had as much as 90 percent fewer security incidents on their Mac devices. The Mac has a fundamentally more secure architecture than the PC thanks to its T2 security chip that provides the foundation for encrypted storage and secure boot capabilities.

While the Mac is more secure, logic says that the increased level of security should cost more. Again, not the case. The Mac’s security first architecture and included security features negate the need for some of the additional endpoint security licenses that are required for comparable PC deployments. The Forrester study reported a savings of $40 per year, per machine in additional endpoint security licenses. Better protection at lower cost. Apple certainly has their own way of doing things.

Invest in employee happiness

It is rare that a product that so many crave has a lower cost of ownership. By implementing an employee choice program, you can please your employees that embrace their preferred brand, as well as the bean counters that keep track of the nickels and dimes. Except we are not talking about nickels and dimes, we are talking about hundreds of dollars per device. Macs breed happiness, loyalty and heightened productivity, all for less money than comparable machines that exhibit lower benchmarks across the board. Give your employees the choice they want and give your company the ROI it demands.

Questions about implementing a Mac as a Choice program in your company? As an Apple authorized reseller, WEI can help. Learn more about our experience and the white glove services we provide by reading our Apple Services brief below, and contact us to start a discussion.

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Deploying Mac introduces several “new” concepts for how to effectively provision and support the devices. Apple methods are different from traditional methods, such as those used in Windows environments, and therefore must be well-understood.

To help your IT team improve operational processes associated with managing Mac devices, this blog post highlights three tips for a smooth and successful deployment. We’ll also explore the tools and skillsets that can empower IT teams to provision and support the devices securely and efficiently, while delivering the best possible experience for end users.

1. Provisioning New Mac Laptops

An IDG Research poll found that 43% of IT decision makers feel their companies need to improve the efficiency of their Apple device management strategies. (Source IDG Research commissioned by WEI, March 2019) Most IT teams are accustomed to provisioning Windows devices. However, provisioning Mac devices is quite different. In a Windows environment, IT either wipes the devices and lays down a captured OS, or uses a thin-provisioning model. With Apple devices, these methods are not easy to achieve and therefore, not desirable. That’s because modern Macs include security features that can prohibit the devices from booting to network volumes or external drives to initiate an imaging process. In addition, some Mac models may include special drivers to help manage parts of the hardware, which can be difficult to capture in a traditional imaging workflow. While it is possible to work around these security features, it is often a multi-step process that is not considered best practice.

To overcome these issues, Apple provides a process that makes Mac provisioning easier, the Device Enrollment Program (DEP). Devices are registered into the program by the Mac reseller, and the company that purchases the Mac devices can access the program using Apple Business Manager, which runs in the cloud. Through Apple Business Manager, IT can register the serial numbers and enroll the devices in a Mobile Device Management (MDM) tool. In the MDM tool, IT sets up configuration profiles, which include the settings for the device as well as the user according to the designated user group. These settings might indicate, for example, which applications users should see on their desktop. The settings can also help devices auto-connect to a secure Wi-Fi access point and designate the level of security access for each user.

When end users boot their device and connect to the internet, their device serial number is picked up by Apple. Apple Business Manager then redirects the device to the organization’s MDM tool so devices can be enrolled into the MDM and automatically receive their designated applications and configuration settings. This Apple provisioning method uses the operating system that is pre-loaded on the , rather than wiping them clean. Because the MDM installs the applications and the settings to the devices via the Apple cloud, end users can start working immediately without IT having to physically touch their laptop.

If preferred, IT has the option to handle the devices, enroll them, and execute the downloads for applications and configuration profiles on behalf of end users. The IT team can then verify that the configurations work before delivering the devices, and employees can log in to start using their machines right away.

2. Securing Devices and Authenticating Users

For Mac security, two-factor authentication is the primary solution. There are two methods that go beyond requiring people to enter their user names and passwords.

• Sending users a code via text message that they have to enter to gain access
• Giving users a thumb drive that they must plug into their devices

Without either the code or the thumb drive, users cannot log in and authenticate their identity.

For user identity services, Active Directory is the primary tool in Windows environments, and it can also be used for Mac laptops added to the network. IT can bind the Mac devices to Active Directory so people can log into their devices with their local user name and password. This set-up is handy when users need to move back-and-forth from an Apple application and a Windows application, such as Microsoft Outlook, which Mac users may rely on for email. With one set of credentials for both systems, end users can work more efficiently.

However, many companies are moving away from this approach because Mac devices often perform better when not joined to Active Directory. Under certain circumstances, there may be password synchronization issues that prevent users from getting into their systems and doing their jobs. This also causes IT to get involved and spend valuable time resolving the issue.

To eliminate this burden, many IT teams use tools like Apple Enterprise Connect and Jamf Connect (formerly known as NoMAD). Both tools eliminate the need for local machines to be directly joined to Active Directory while also tracking account credentials on local machines. Users can log in with a local account rather than the credentials derived from Active Directory. The tools then synchronize the credentials to Active Directory for identity authentication. Apple Enterprise Connect and Jamf Connect also provide some additional features. As examples, an icon in the menu bar indicates how many days until a password expires to simplify the process for end users, and common network shares can be mounted automatically when the Mac devices are connected to the organization’s internal network.

With these advanced tools, when the credentials are changed, either on the local device or in Active Directory, the tools will synchronize the account again. This approach simplifies the login process for end users while still giving IT departments the ability to enforce policies, such as requiring employees to change passwords every three months.

3. Applying Patches and Updates

For applying security patches, OS updates, and updates for frequently-used applications such as Safari and iTunes, IT teams have the option to leverage a free service that Apple provides called Software Update. All Mac devices are directed to the service by default, which runs in the cloud and automatically notifies end users of any patches and updates they need to apply, and prompts them to execute the downloads.

Apple no longer provides an on-premises software update mechanism, but there are alternative solutions that IT departments can use to manage the Apple catalog of software patches and updates.

Available third-party open source update servers include Reposado and Jamf Software’s NetBoot/SUS Appliance. Both operate on-premises and can function on any OS platform, including Apple, Windows, and Linux, utilizing Python code that runs in the background. IT can utilize an MDM platform, such as and AirWatch, to point all Mac devices to the platform in order to control which updates are published to those devices. Managing updates in this manner comes in handy, for example, when Apple releases a security patch. IT can disable the notifications so end users won’t receive a message each time a patch or update is available for download.

By utilizing an on-premises patch management and update tool, IT can test the patch on different device configurations to make sure it doesn’t break the OS or any of the applications. Once the patch is ready for the machines to install, IT enables the patch through the open source tool. The patch then shows up as available for users to install, and IT can push the patch out through the MDM platform, where users can install it with just a few clicks.

In addition to managing updates, it’s also a good idea to buy extra Apple devices as testing devices. Ideally, IT will want to run machines with hardware specs and software similar to what end users have on their devices. IT can use the test machines to become familiar with user environments, as well as enroll the devices in the MDM platform to test how well the provisioning process and various services work.

Specific services to test include the ability to log into email, utilize VPN services, and access files in shared drives. It’s especially important to test when deploying antivirus software, which can sometimes break the OS and cause machines to have performance issues if not done properly.

Enabling Enterprises to Offer More Choices for End Users

Today’s end users want the freedom to choose when it comes to the desktop environments that they use to do their jobs every day. Increasingly, Mac laptops have been the devices of choice. WEI recommends embracing this trend, while giving your IT team the tools and skills they need to ensure the devices perform at a high level, employees are productive, and digital assets are secure.

If you’re about to bring into your enterprise, or if you’d like to work with a partner who has expertise in managing the devices that are already deployed on your network, we’re here to help. As an Authorized Apple Reseller, We specialize in helping enterprise customers roll out new Mac devices, along with providing ongoing maintenance and support. Many of our customers have already made the transition to a hybrid Windows-Apple environment to improve productivity and enhance the end user experience, and we’re ready to support you as you embark on the same journey.

NEXT STEPS:

Learn more about WEI’s expertise with all things Apple in our Apple Services Brief below.

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The digital revolution is changing the way businesses operate and how people work. Employees desire flexibility and the option to work anytime from anywhere from the devices that they prefer. With freedom of choice, employees have more control over their work experience, resulting in higher job satisfaction and increased productivity. Enterprises report that the majority of their . Apple helps companies empower their employees through personalized, optimized work environments. With the Apple Business Manager solution, setup and support of Apple devices is simple and seamless. It has become easier and more cost-effective than ever to give your employees the freedom to choose.

Improving Productivity

Employees often perform better in a personalized work environment. Productivity increases when employees can use the devices and applications that they prefer. Apple supports core business apps and services, like and . Many industry and workflow-specific legacy apps have also been modernized for compatibility with Apple devices. However, employees are not limited only to essential business apps using Apple devices. Self-service tools allow users to install personal productivity apps and other tools that can help them maximize their performance. With Apple’s advanced security architecture, devices can be used for both personal and business needs.

Reducing Demands on IT

Downtime is also reduced when employees use devices that they are familiar with. Many employees already own personal Apple devices and know-how to troubleshoot issues. When staff members can provide their own tech support, it increases productivity throughout the enterprise. Minor issues do not result in hours of downtime, and IT is free to focus on business goals. The addition of further encourages self-support and self-sufficiency. An AppleCare integrated help desk shifts the goal of tech support. Instead of IT professionals fixing every tech issue, employees are taught to investigate, and problem solve. AppleCare also provides support for IT staff to ensure that Apple devices are efficiently integrated and supported.

Attracting Top Talent

Studies show that employees are more productive, efficient, and satisfied when empowered to use the devices that they prefer. The vast majority prefer Apple products. Freedom of choice gives your company an edge in recruiting and keeping top talent. With Apple, your employees will have the tools they need to maximize productivity and innovation.

Apple Business Manager

In the past, devices were purchased in bulk from a single manufacturer to ensure compatibility and easy management. It was impractical for IT to support numerous devices with different requirements. However, technology has advanced, and it is now much easier to manage a variety of devices. Apple Business Manager is designed to work with your mobile device management (MDM) solution. Apple Business Manager simplifies every aspect of Apple device deployment and management.

Automated Deployment – Devices can be automatically enrolled in your MDM solution during setup, eliminating the need for manual configuration.

Content Management – IT can purchase and distribute apps, individually or in bulk, and manage licenses for all users.

Configuration – Accounts, security, apps, and data can be configured over-the-air for each device.

Managed Updates – IT can delay or push updates to devices to ensure constant, effective security.

Security and Control – IT can remotely supervise devices and impose extra restrictions or security solutions.

Apple devices maximize security and privacy for both work-related and personal data. All Apple products have a secure management framework built-in, and every app is verified before launch. Granular management tools give IT valuable insight without sacrificing employee privacy. IT can access the settings and information necessary to keep corporate data secure, but personal data is restricted. This separation helps protect company data and ensures employee privacy.

Employees prefer a modern work experience built on flexibility and personalization. The ability to choose the devices that they prefer is a key element of this new work environment. Freedom of choice generates increased productivity, innovation, and job satisfaction. Surveys show that Apple products are the top choice for the majority of employees. enables enterprises to seamlessly deploy and manage Apple devices. With Apple Business Manager, IT can remotely support and configure devices, apps, and accounts. Apple’s strong security framework ensures that both corporate and personal data remain secure. Apple Business Manager is a streamlined, comprehensive solution to help you provide your employees with freedom of choice.

NEXT STEPS: Discover tips for success in order to deploy Apple devices the right way by downloading our white paper titles “Success Tips for Integrating Apple in the Enterprise”

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