MDM Server

A server application that implements Apple’s MDM protocol to manage enrolled devices by sending configuration profiles, app installations, and management commands.

What to Know

The MDM server is the central control point for all device management operations. It communicates with enrolled devices via Apple’s MDM protocol, issuing commands to install apps, enforce security policies, lock or wipe devices, and query device status. Without a functioning MDM server, devices cannot receive management instructions, making it the most critical component of any Apple device management infrastructure. The MDM server maintains the trust relationship with devices through APNs (Apple Push Notification service), enabling real-time communication and instant policy enforcement.

MDM servers vary widely in capabilities, from simple open-source solutions to enterprise platforms like Addigy that provide comprehensive automation, reporting, and integrations. The choice of MDM server determines which management features are available, how efficiently deployments scale, and what level of support and reliability organizations receive. Modern MDM servers also integrate with identity providers, asset management systems, and security tools to provide holistic device lifecycle management.

Common Scenarios

Enterprise IT: Large corporations deploy commercial MDM servers with high availability, supporting thousands of devices across multiple locations. The MDM server integrates with Active Directory or Azure AD for user authentication, automatically enrolls devices via ADE, and enforces corporate security baselines. IT teams monitor server health dashboards to ensure uninterrupted device communication and management.

MSP: Managed service providers use multi-tenant MDM servers to manage devices for dozens or hundreds of clients from a single platform. Each client has isolated management policies and reporting, while the MSP maintains centralized oversight. The MDM server provides client-specific branding, separate APNs certificates, and granular access controls for client admins.

Education: Schools deploy MDM servers through Apple School Manager integration, managing iPads in shared cart scenarios and 1:1 student programs. The MDM server handles Shared iPad user assignments, app distribution via VPP, and classroom-specific restrictions. Education MDM servers often include features for managing student accounts, class rosters, and educational app deployment.

In Addigy

Addigy is a cloud-based MDM server specifically designed for Apple device management. It implements the complete MDM protocol and extends it with automation, patch management, remote support, and advanced reporting capabilities. Addigy’s MDM server infrastructure is hosted on AWS with high availability and automatic scaling, eliminating the need for organizations to maintain their own server hardware or worry about uptime.

The Addigy MDM server integrates with Apple Business Manager and Apple School Manager for automated device enrollment, manages APNs certificates automatically, and provides real-time device communication through Apple’s push notification infrastructure. All MDM commands and configurations are managed through Addigy’s web console, which provides role-based access control, audit logging, and multi-tenancy for MSPs managing multiple clients.