what type of devices support agentless enrollment

3 min read 02-02-2025

what type of devices support agentless enrollment

Agentless enrollment is a method of enrolling devices into mobile device management (MDM) systems without needing to install any additional software or agents on the device itself. This simplifies the enrollment process, making it faster and easier, especially for large deployments. However, the specific devices and operating systems that support agentless enrollment vary depending on the MDM solution and the enrollment method used. This article will explore the common device types and operating systems compatible with agentless enrollment.

Understanding Agentless Enrollment Methods

Before diving into device compatibility, let's clarify the different ways agentless enrollment can be achieved. The most common methods include:

Apple Device Enrollment Program (DEP) and Apple Business Manager (ABM): These Apple services allow for mass enrollment of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS devices directly from the manufacturer. Devices are pre-configured to automatically enroll in MDM when activated. This is arguably the most robust and seamless agentless method for Apple devices.
Android Enterprise Recommended Devices: These devices undergo rigorous testing to ensure compatibility with Android Enterprise management features, including agentless enrollment. This typically uses a Zero-Touch Enrollment (ZTE) process.
Microsoft Intune and Autopilot: Microsoft's Intune MDM solution, combined with Autopilot, supports agentless enrollment for Windows devices. Autopilot uses a variety of methods, including the use of hardware identifiers or Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) accounts, to automatically enroll devices.
QR Code Enrollment: Some MDM solutions allow for agentless enrollment via QR codes. Users scan the QR code with their device's camera, triggering the enrollment process. This method typically works across multiple operating systems.
Token-Based Enrollment: This method uses a unique token generated by the MDM server to authenticate and enroll the device. The token is usually provided through a web portal or email, eliminating the need for agents.

Device Compatibility by Operating System

The compatibility of devices with agentless enrollment heavily depends on the operating system. Let's break down the common OS options:

iOS and iPadOS

Agentless enrollment for iOS and iPadOS devices is largely facilitated by Apple's DEP/ABM program. Almost all modern iOS and iPadOS devices are compatible when enrolled using this method. While QR code enrollment might be possible with certain MDM solutions, it's not as reliable or widely supported as DEP/ABM.

Android

Android's support for agentless enrollment is growing, particularly with Android Enterprise Recommended devices. These devices are specifically designed for enterprise use and support features like Zero-Touch Enrollment. Older Android devices might have limited or no support for agentless enrollment. Checking for Android Enterprise Recommended status before purchase is crucial.

macOS

macOS devices benefit greatly from agentless enrollment through Apple Business Manager (ABM), which offers the same streamlined setup as DEP for iOS/iPadOS devices.

Windows

Windows devices are increasingly compatible with agentless enrollment, primarily through Microsoft Intune and Autopilot. This allows for seamless enrollment of new and existing devices into the MDM solution.

Chrome OS

Chrome OS devices often support agentless enrollment through various methods, including QR codes or dedicated enrollment portals provided by the MDM provider.

Factors Affecting Compatibility

Beyond the operating system, other factors can influence a device's ability to support agentless enrollment:

MDM Solution: The MDM solution being used dictates the specific enrollment methods and devices it supports. Some MDM solutions are more robust than others in their agentless capabilities.
Device Firmware/OS Version: Older devices might not support modern agentless enrollment methods. Keeping devices updated with the latest firmware and OS versions increases compatibility.
Network Connectivity: Successful agentless enrollment requires reliable network connectivity during the enrollment process.

Conclusion

Agentless enrollment is transforming device management, offering a simpler and more efficient way to enroll devices into MDM. While compatibility varies depending on the operating system, MDM solution, and device model, modern devices from major manufacturers often support agentless enrollment, particularly when using dedicated enrollment programs like Apple's DEP/ABM or Microsoft's Intune Autopilot. Always check the specific compatibility information from your MDM provider and device manufacturer to ensure successful enrollment.