Summary
This document outlines the primary features and components of Apple's Profile Manager, a tool for configuring and distributing settings to iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, and Mac devices within an organization. Key topics include configuration management, enforcement of organizational policies, distribution methods for configuration profiles, and an overview of Profile Manager’s main components such as MDM services, wireless configuration, and app/book distribution. The content is part of the macOS Server User Guide and provides links to related resources for setup and management.
Action Items
- None identified in this document.
Overview of Profile Manager
- Profile Manager is used to configure and distribute device settings, apps, and books across iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, and Mac devices in an organization.
- It allows for the management of both individual devices and users, supporting tailored or blanket application of configuration profiles.
- Note that some features require the latest operating systems; compatibility with earlier OS versions is limited.
Managing Settings and Policies
- Profile Manager creates and distributes configuration profiles that, once installed, apply the specified settings to devices or users.
- Profiles can be assigned at the user, user group, device, or device group level to set baseline and customized configurations.
- Enforces organizational policies such as password requirements, network access controls, device restrictions, and system preference locks.
- Supports remote management for installing or updating policies without user intervention.
Distribution Methods for Configuration Profiles
- Profiles can be distributed automatically upon device activation, via remote management through MDM, by user self-service through a portal, or manually (e.g., via email or posting on a website).
- The self-service portal enables users to install organization-assigned profiles themselves.
Components of Profile Manager
- Mobile Device Management (MDM) Service: Enables remote management, updates, and configuration of enrolled iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV devices.
- Wireless Configuration: Allows devices to be enrolled and set up over the air, expediting deployment and skipping initial setup steps.
- App and Book Distribution: Supports distribution of apps and books purchased via Apple School Manager or Apple Business Manager.
Decisions
Open Questions / Follow-Ups