To understand the challenges facing modern IT teams in managing a diverse range of endpoints, one word that keeps coming up? Proliferation.

Organizations are faced with a rapidly expanding ecosystem of network devices, tools and assets–some of which are so hidden from view that IT doesn’t even realize they exist. This growth of the attack surface is one reason why recent Ivanti research found that over half of IT professionals say they aren’t very confident about their ability to stop a damaging security incident in the next 12 months.

Just as alarming? More than one in three say they are less prepared to detect threats and respond to incidents compared to a year ago.

It’s a situation that requires new methods and tools. Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) is one of those: A holistic approach that simplifies IT management, enhances security, and transforms the digital employee experience.

Like so many solutions before it, UEM has seen a push to shift to the cloud. When properly implemented, cloud-based UEM can streamline an organization's IT operations, strengthen its security posture, and empower its employees with seamless access to resources.

Let’s explore the key considerations, strategies, and best practices involved in a successful cloud UEM migration journey.

Cloud UEM versus on-premises 

When selecting UEM solutions, organizations must choose between cloud-based and on-premises models. Cloud-based UEM reduces the need for internal IT infrastructure, offering cost savings, scalability and remote accessibility. 

Conversely, on-premises UEM allows for greater customization and integration with existing systems but requires significant investment in hardware and IT staff, and it may lack the flexibility of cloud solutions. The decision should be based on the organization's specific needs, budget and IT capabilities, ensuring the chosen model aligns with long-term goals and objectives.

Risks of on-premises UEM

While on-premises UEM solutions offer a sense of control and data privacy, they come with several drawbacks and challenges that can hinder an organization's ability to fully obtain the benefits they’re after. 

  • High costs come with the necessary hardware, software and ongoing support needed for on-premises UEM. Organizations need to invest in servers, storage and networking infrastructure and purchase and maintain software licenses. Additionally, dedicated IT staff are required for management and maintenance, adding to operational expenses.
  • Security is crucial for on-premises UEM solutions, requiring regular updates and significant resources to maintain. This includes both cybersecurity measures and physical security to prevent unauthorized access, making it a costly and time-consuming effort.
  • On-premises UEM solutions lack the scalability and flexibility of cloud-based alternatives. As businesses grow or evolve, their UEM needs may change. But scaling an on-premises UEM solution can be complex and resource-intensive, requiring additional hardware and software investments. Similarly, adapting the solution to support new devices or operating systems can be challenging and time-consuming.
  • Data loss is a major risk associated with on-premises UEM solutions, owing to hardware failures, natural disasters or human error. Organizations need to establish strong data backup and recovery strategies to reduce this risk, which adds more complexity and cost to the overall UEM infrastructure.

Benefits of the cloud

Migrating your UEM solution to the cloud unlocks a wealth of benefits that can transform IT management and elevate the digital employee experience. 

  • Cost optimization: Cloud adoption eliminates the need for extensive on-premises infrastructure, reducing hardware and maintenance costs. With subscription-based cloud models, organizations only pay for the resources they use, optimizing IT budgets and freeing up capital for strategic initiatives.
  • Enhanced security: Cloud-based UEM solutions offer robust security for safeguarding sensitive data and devices. Regular updates and patches ensure protection against the latest threats. Centralized management enables consistent security policies across all endpoints, reducing vulnerabilities and ensuring compliance.
  • Seamless scalability: The cloud’s native scalability makes it easy to grow and shrink with your business. Provisioning and de-provisioning devices is simple, so you can adapt to changing needs without being held back by your infrastructure.
  • Enhanced collaboration and flexibility: The cloud allows seamless collaboration across teams and devices, regardless of their location or operating system. Employees can securely access and exchange data from any location, enhancing productivity and flexibility.
  • Rapid implementation and reduced complexity: Cloud-based UEM solutions offer faster implementation when you compare them to on-premises setups. With minimal infrastructure requirements, organizations can be up and running swiftly, reducing the complexity of IT management.

Leveraging cloud-based UEM cloud means you have constant access to tech advances that keep your organization at the forefront of innovation. This ultimately contributes to improved business outcomes and a superior digital experience for employees.

Related: See how Conair benefitted from migrating to cloud-based UEM

Cloud UEM migration doesn’t have to hurt

Moving your UEM solution to the cloud might seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be.

Here’s an overview of the steps to follow for a successful cloud migration, steps that involve both the technical and human factors involved:

1. Initial assessment and planning

  • Evaluate current UEM setup, identifying devices, users and applications managed.
  • Define necessary cloud UEM functionalities for scalability, updates and security.
  • Ensure migration meets security standards and regulatory compliance.

2. Choosing a cloud UEM provider

  • Research potential vendors for security, scalability, integration and support capabilities.

3. Data backup and migration prep

  • Back up critical data, including device settings, before migration.

Catalog all devices and apps to ensure a comprehensive migration; be sure to discover and include any that are hidden, including unmanaged BYOD devices.

4. Phased migration

  • Start with a pilot phase for a small group to address issues.
  • Then gradually deploy the cloud UEM solution more broadly, monitoring progress and resolving issues.

5. Endpoint enrollment and setup

  • Use automation for easy device enrollment to the cloud UEM.
  • Adjust policies for device management and security to fit the new system.

6. Ongoing security and monitoring

  • Implement strong security measures and continuous monitoring with cloud-native tools.

7. Post-migration fine-tuning

  • Evaluate performance to ensure all devices are operational.
  • Use automation for regular updates and maintenance.

With the right partner, this process can be smooth and easy, as they bring experience and a proven track record to bear on your UEM migration. They can help you assess your current environment, develop a migration plan and execute your migration with minimal disruption.

Yet a good partner's efforts don't end with the migration. They'll continue to support you, ensuring that your UEM solution is running securely and efficiently in the cloud. They should offer comprehensive services include assessment, planning, migration and ongoing support, driven by proven methodologies and certified engineers with a wealth of UEM migration expertise and experience.

At the end of the day, you'll enjoy a successful cloud UEM migration, leveraging the full benefits of the cloud, without the complexities and headaches that can come from enlisting the wrong partner or attempting it yourself.