How to efficiently manage mobile devices and endpoints in Google Admin Center
To efficiently manage mobile devices and endpoints in the Google Admin Center (Admin Console), follow these structured steps:
1. Access the Admin Console
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Log in at admin.google.com using an administrator account
2. Navigate to Device Management
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Go to Devices in the left-hand menu
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Select Mobile & endpoints to manage both mobile devices and other endpoints (such as laptops and desktops)
3. Choose the Appropriate Management Level
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Basic Management: Provides core security features like password enforcement and account wipe. No device agent installation is required and is enabled by default.
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Advanced Management: Offers enhanced controls, including app management, device settings enforcement, remote wipe, and detailed reporting. Requires device policy app installation for Android/iOS and an Apple Push Certificate for iOS devices.
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Custom Management: Allows you to apply different management levels (unmanaged, basic, advanced) for different device types or organizational units.
To enable or adjust management:
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Go to Devices > Mobile & endpoints > Settings > Universal.
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Select your organizational unit if you want to apply settings to a specific group.
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Choose Basic, Advanced, or Custom management, then click Save.
4. Set Up Device Policies and Security Controls
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Enforce passcodes, screen locks, and device encryption
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Set up device approvals to control which devices can access corporate data
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Configure remote actions such as lock, wipe, or block for lost or non-compliant devices
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Manage apps (approve, block, or push apps) and configure Wi-Fi, VPN, and network settings remotely.
5. Enroll and Monitor Devices
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For company-owned devices, enroll them via Google Endpoint Manager for centralized oversight
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Use the device inventory to monitor all registered devices, check compliance, and audit device activity
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For ChromeOS devices, use the Chrome > Settings > Device section to configure device and user policies, enforce updates, and manage extensions.
6. Automate and Streamline Management
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Set up automated policy enforcement and alerts using built-in rules or third-party tools like gPanel for advanced automation and reporting
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Regularly review and update policies to adapt to organizational changes and evolving security needs.
7. Best Practices
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Segment users and devices into organizational units for tailored policy application
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Test new policies with pilot groups before organization-wide rollout to avoid disruptions
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Train users on device enrollment and compliance requirements.