MobileIron vs VMWare AirWatch: What are the differences?

Introduction

MobileIron and VMWare AirWatch are both popular mobile device management (MDM) solutions that help organizations manage their mobile devices and ensure data security. While both offer similar functionality, there are several key differences between the two platforms.

1. Deployment Options: MobileIron provides both cloud-based and on-premises deployment options, giving organizations flexibility in choosing the deployment model that best fits their needs. On the other hand, VMWare AirWatch mainly offers a cloud-based deployment model, with limited on-premises options. This difference in deployment options allows MobileIron to cater to a wider range of organizations with different IT infrastructure requirements.

2. Integration Capabilities: MobileIron offers strong integration capabilities with a wide range of enterprise systems and tools, allowing organizations to seamlessly incorporate MDM into their existing IT ecosystem. VMWare AirWatch, while also offering integration capabilities, may not have the same level of compatibility with certain systems and tools, potentially requiring additional development or workarounds. MobileIron's extensive integration capabilities make it a preferred choice for organizations with complex IT environments.

3. Device and OS Support: MobileIron provides broader device and operating system (OS) support compared to VMWare AirWatch. MobileIron supports a wide range of mobile devices, including iOS, Android, and Windows-based devices, whereas VMWare AirWatch may have limited support for certain device types or versions of operating systems. This difference in device and OS support ensures that MobileIron can accommodate a diverse fleet of mobile devices used by employees.

4. Security Features: While both MobileIron and VMWare AirWatch prioritize data security, MobileIron offers advanced security features, such as encrypted data containers, granular access controls, and threat detection, which may not be as comprehensive in VMWare AirWatch. MobileIron's focus on robust security measures makes it an ideal choice for organizations with stringent security requirements or sensitive data.

5. User Experience and Interface: MobileIron provides a user-friendly interface and intuitive user experience, enabling administrators to easily manage devices and policies. VMWare AirWatch, while also offering a user-friendly interface, may have a steeper learning curve for administrators who are new to the platform. MobileIron's emphasis on user experience simplifies the device management process and reduces the need for extensive training.

6. Support and Documentation: MobileIron is known for its responsive customer support and comprehensive documentation, ensuring that organizations can quickly resolve any issues or queries. VMWare AirWatch also offers support and documentation, but it may not have the same level of responsiveness or depth of resources as MobileIron. MobileIron's strong support and documentation resources contribute to a smoother implementation and ongoing management experience.

In summary, MobileIron offers more deployment options, extensive integration capabilities, broader device and OS support, advanced security features, a user-friendly interface, and responsive support, making it a comprehensive mobile device management solution compared to VMWare AirWatch.