SOTI MobiControl MDM review: an easy-to-use and comprehensive device management solution

Mobile Device Management (MDM) systems work best when they can handle a wide range of mobile hardware. In addition to being compatible with different devices, MDM software should be easy to configure and enroll devices on.

SOTI MobiControl is one of several mobility and IoT solutions offered by SOTI. It aims to provide a simple user interface for managing multiple device types from various vendors, regardless of form factor or operating system.

This software simplifies the security and management of devices with different vendors, form factors, and operating systems in your business mobility deployment. All of this is done through a single, easy-to-use interface.

In this review, we will examine the capabilities of SOTI MobiControl for managing multiple mobile devices.

• Interested in SOTI MobiControl? Check out the website here

Features

SSOTI MobiControl allows businesses to manage a fleet of devices across various users, operating systems, and locations. It supports several operating systems, such as Google Android, Apple iOS and macOS, Microsoft Windows, and Linux. It can also manage Zebra mobile computer enterprise devices.

The software offers multiple enrollment methods, such as SOTI Stage, Apple DEP, Android Zero-Touch, and Samsung KME, to simplify securing and managing mobile hardware throughout its lifecycle. It also has an advanced IoT management feature that supports Linux, making it the first solution for managing Linux-based mobile devices and endpoints. With the increasing use of IoT devices in different industries, this feature is a valuable addition to the software.

SSOTI MobiControl seamlessly integrates with SOTI Hub and SOTI Surf. This integration allows users to access all their essential documents and files from anywhere on their mobile devices. With mobile app management, users can quickly deploy applications across multiple operating systems, whether using a company-owned device or their personal device.

The software fully supports Android's COPE implementation. With SOTI MobiControl Premium Plus and Enterprise Plus Service, customers can keep track of system health with the System Health Dashboard. The dashboard provides a real-time view of the last 48 hours of activity with critical operational statistics on queue lengths, processing time, mobile CPU, and database health, as well as server health.

Installation and setup

SOTI MobiControl offers on-premises and remote cloud hosting options for different business needs. If you have the required expertise and resources, on-premises installation can be a viable choice, giving you complete control over your data and infrastructure. However, it can complicate adding new services or scaling up your operations.

Cloud hosting may be the way to go if you're looking for a more flexible and scalable solution. Depending on your setup, scale, and budget, you'll need to consider whether a dedicated or virtual server is required. Cloud hosting provides you with the necessary infrastructure and eliminates the need to manage and maintain the servers yourself.

Another advantage of SOTI MobiControl is that enrollment is quick and supported across various device types, generations, and platforms. This makes it easy to manage a diverse fleet of devices, regardless of whether they are running on iOS, Android, Windows, or other operating systems.

Compatibility

SOTI MobiControl is a highly versatile and powerful device management solution that can be utilized with a wide range of hardware. One of its critical benefits is its compatibility with various devices, including the latest smartphones, tablets, laptops, and even older devices like PDAs. This makes it an excellent choice for businesses that require a comprehensive solution capable of managing all their devices.

Unlike other MDM solutions, such as Jamf, which primarily cater to Apple devices, SOTI MobiControl is compatible with a wide range of different devices and operating systems, including Android, iOS, and Windows tablets, Android devices used by couriers, and even legacy Windows PDAs. This means businesses using SOTI MobiControl can manage all their devices from a single platform, saving them time and money.

Overall, SOTI MobiControl is an excellent choice for businesses that require a comprehensive device management solution compatible with various devices and operating systems. Whether managing a fleet of smartphones and tablets or older devices like PDAs, SOTI MobiControl can help you keep your devices secure and up-to-date while providing you with a wide range of powerful management tools and features.

Usability

SOTI MobiControl operates in a discreet manner from the endpoint's point of view, although this may vary depending on the provisioning method used. On the administrative side, SOTI MobiControl provides a straightforward browser-based user interface. This simplifies the process of selecting relevant devices, gathering information, and creating groups. It also enables specific permissions, applications, patches, and updates to be deployed based on device role, user location, and other factors. Endpoints can be identified using various criteria, such as device name, manufacturer, model, operating system, remaining battery life, memory, and standard identifiers like phone number, owner's username, and MAC address.

Plans and pricing

During the free trial period, users can explore all the software's features and functionalities. However, it is essential to note that the trial period lasts 28 days and freezes after seven days of inactivity. The trial period will be closed if the user fails to log in or use the software for more than seven days.

SOTI MobiControl pricing is based on a business-by-business case, with scalable options to suit any business dynamic. For the cloud system, the license fee is $4.00 per device per month, while for on-premises hosting, the cost is $3.25 per device per month. There is also a $90 per device per month option, including $18 per year maintenance fees.

Despite the flexible pricing options, it is essential to be aware that the sales team may contact you several times during the evaluation period. If you prefer not to be rushed into deciding on software procurement, this may understandably put you off.

Final verdict

SOTI MobiControl is an easy-to-use and comprehensive device management solution that provides extensive support for multiple device management scenarios without overwhelming you with unnecessary features. With SOTI MobiControl, you can ensure your devices remain up-to-date, error-free, and secure from misuse.

The evaluation period for SOTI MobiControl is very generous, giving you ample time to explore the platform's features and capabilities. However, it's important to note that the sales team may contact you frequently to schedule a demo. They're eager to help you get the most out of the platform and ensure a smooth implementation process. 

Whether looking for on-premises or cloud hosting, setting up and implementing SOTI MobiControl is a breeze. The platform is designed to cater to a variety of device management scenarios, including BYOD (bring your own device), CYOD (choose your own device), COBO (company-owned, business-only), and COPE (company-owned, personally enabled). This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for organizations of all sizes and types.

In addition to its user-friendly interface and flexible deployment options, SOTI MobiControl offers a range of premium and enterprise-plus subscriptions that provide a System Health Dashboard. This dashboard offers a useful 48-hour overview of various operational stats, highlighting the full potential of SOTI MobiControl and helping you stay on top of your device management needs.

Overall, SOTI MobiControl is a robust and reliable device management solution that can help you streamline your device management processes, reduce costs, and ensure your devices remain secure and up-to-date.

More from TechRadar Pro

• For a summary, take a look at our best MDM solutions
• For an alternative, check out Miradore MDM.