Intune (MDM) vs. NinjaOne (RMM) vs. MAM: Which is Right for Your Business?

Acronyms like MDM, RMM, and MAM can sound overwhelming to many SMB owners. However, understanding these tools can significantly improve how your business manages devices, protects sensitive data, and handles everyday IT operations. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between these three key technologies—Mobile Device Management (MDM), Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM), and Mobile Application Management (MAM)—so you can choose the solution that best fits your business needs.

What Are MDM, RMM, and MAM?

1. Mobile Device Management (MDM)

MDM solutions, like Microsoft Intune, help businesses control and secure mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. With the rise of remote work and employees using personal devices for business, MDM ensures that your company’s data stays safe on any device, regardless of where it’s used.

• Key Features of MDM:
  • Device enrollment and management
  • Enforcing security policies, such as password complexity
  • Tracking lost or stolen devices
  • Remote wipe of corporate data from devices
  • Monitoring device compliance with company standards
• Pros:
  • Strong control over security policies on mobile devices
  • Centralized management, even for remote employees
  • Excellent for industries like healthcare and finance, where sensitive data protection is critical
• Cons:
  • May be overly complex for businesses with fewer mobile devices
  • Can require substantial setup time and IT resources
• Cost:
  • Microsoft Intune typically costs between $6 to $12 per user per month, depending on the features required. However, it’s part of the larger Microsoft 365 ecosystem, making it cost-effective if your business already uses Microsoft products.

2. Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM)

RMM tools, like NinjaOne, are designed to help IT support and managed service providers remotely monitor and manage all of the devices, servers, and networks in an organization. It’s a powerful tool that ensures your IT infrastructure is running smoothly by identifying issues before they become big problems.

• Key Features of RMM:
  • Remote monitoring of hardware and software health
  • Automated maintenance tasks (like software updates and patches)
  • Threat detection and response
  • Real-time alerts for device or network issues
  • IT asset tracking and inventory management
• Pros:
  • Perfect for businesses needing comprehensive monitoring of IT infrastructure
  • Preventative maintenance helps reduce downtime and IT costs
  • Works well for managed service providers and IT consultants that need to oversee multiple clients’ systems
• Cons:
  • Primarily focused on IT departments, which might be overkill for small businesses with minimal tech infrastructure
  • Can be expensive depending on the level of monitoring and automation you need
• Cost:
  • RMM pricing varies based on the size of your organization and the number of endpoints being managed. NinjaOne typically starts around $3 per endpoint per month, with additional fees for advanced features. For small businesses with a large number of devices, this can add up.

3. Mobile Application Management (MAM)

MAM focuses on managing and securing applications rather than the devices themselves. This is particularly useful for businesses with a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy, where employees use personal devices but still need to access corporate apps. MAM ensures that corporate data within those apps stays secure without imposing strict controls on the personal aspects of the device.

• Key Features of MAM:
  • Application-level security controls
  • App-specific policies (e.g., requiring passwords for certain apps)
  • Selective wiping of corporate data without affecting personal data
  • Management of app distribution and updates
• Pros:
  • Perfect for companies that don’t want to manage entire devices, just the apps that handle corporate data
  • Employees have more freedom over their devices while still adhering to company security policies
  • Simplifies security management for businesses with a remote workforce or BYOD setup
• Cons:
  • Less control over the full device environment compared to MDM
  • Not ideal if your business requires detailed device-level security controls
• Cost:
  • MAM is often bundled with MDM tools like Microsoft Intune, meaning it’s typically part of the broader service. The cost varies depending on whether you’re purchasing standalone MAM services or integrated solutions.

Pros and Cons Comparison

Which One is Right for Your Business?

Choosing between MDM, RMM, and MAM depends on your business size, industry, and specific IT needs.

• Mobile-Heavy Workforce: If your business relies on employees using mobile devices or working remotely, an MDM tool like Intune is likely the best fit. It offers strong control over mobile devices, ensuring that your company’s data is safe even on personal or remote devices.
• Managed IT Infrastructure: If you’re working with a managed service provider or have an in-house IT team overseeing a larger infrastructure, NinjaOne is an excellent solution. Its proactive monitoring and management tools help keep your entire IT system secure, up-to-date, and running smoothly.
• BYOD Policies: If your company allows employees to use their own devices, then MAM could be a better fit. It offers more flexibility by managing just the corporate apps on personal devices, ensuring employees have freedom without sacrificing security.

The Role of Cybersecurity and IT Consulting

When deciding between these tools, cybersecurity is a critical factor to consider. With each solution, there are strengths and trade-offs in terms of how much control you have over devices and data. Working with an IT consultant or managed service provider can help you navigate these options and implement the solution that best protects your business.

At BNC, we specialize in providing IT support and consulting services to SMBs, ensuring that your technology solutions are tailored to your unique needs. We’ll help you assess your current environment, identify gaps, and implement the right tool—whether that’s an MDM, RMM, or MAM solution.

Costs and Security Considerations

While the pricing for MDM, RMM, and MAM tools varies, it’s important to view these costs as part of your broader cybersecurity strategy. Cheap solutions might save money upfront, but they can leave your business vulnerable to costly data breaches, downtime, or compliance issues.

By investing in the right solution with expert IT consulting, you’ll ensure that your business is not only protected but also operating efficiently. As your IT support partner, BNC is here to guide you through these critical decisions.

Get In Touch With BNC To Get Started

Need help deciding which solution is right for your business? Contact BNC today to schedule a free consultation. Let’s work together to ensure your IT environment is secure, efficient, and ready for growth! Your company may be on the lookout for more comprehensive IT solutions than just secure browsing, and we’re here to help. If you’re looking for an IT support company in Denver or Dallas with experienced IT/Security consultants, BNC will work closely with your team to evaluate your specific needs and provide tailored solutions that strengthen your cybersecurity defenses. Don’t wait until a cyber incident occurs to realize the importance of comprehensive cybersecurity measures. Contact BNC, an IT company in Denver & Dallas today to begin your journey toward a safer and more secure digital future. Together, we can safeguard your business and protect it from the ever-present threats in the world of cybercrime.