How Does Jamf Work?
In support of device lifecycle needs, Jamf enables IT teams to provision devices for zero-touch deployment. Its self-service capabilities empower users to load their own apps without getting help from IT.
On the security side, the platform simplifies IT efforts to manage settings and configurations, restrict malicious software and patch devices across a broad user base.
In higher education, such centralized control gives IT teams “the ability to have device deployment management in the initial setup — getting the device to the person without them having to make 10 different stops,” says Suraj Mohandas, Jamf’s vice president of product strategy.
“The alternative would be for every device that needs to go to a user in higher ed to take the scenic route through an IT desk and have staff configure it manually,” he says. “With centralized control you can make sure that the device is set up for that end user, perfectly.”
Which Jamf Features Are Most Important for Higher Ed?
Several of Jamf’s features are especially useful in a college or university environment.
The ability to automate tasks is key. “That could be something as simple as software updates, inventory management or configuration changes,” Mohandas says. “All of that frees up the IT team to focus on more strategic initiatives.”
In a university setting, where different user groups need access to a wide range of applications, Jamf’s self-service provisioning eases the strain on IT teams. It enables users to “install approved software from a preapproved list, empowering members of the user community to do it themselves,” versus always needing IT involvement, Mohandas says.
In support of higher education’s significant compliance obligations, automated security processes help ease the pressure. “Locking and wiping lost devices, securing data, making sure it meets the regulatory standards — a lot of that would be painstaking to do if you didn't have a management framework,” he says.
