A debate has long been raging in IT departments over which mobile operating system offers better security: Android or iOS. Both systems have their advantages and drawbacks, and understanding them is vital for organizations looking to protect their data. While Apple’s iOS has traditionally been regarded as the more secure platform due to its focus on privacy, security, and user experience, Google’s Android has made strides in implementing strong security measures.
Both Android and iOS devices support data encryption and mobile device management (MDM) commands, allowing organizations to enforce passcodes and secure authentication. However, the way MDM manages devices is crucial to ensuring cybersecurity. MDM tools help organizations secure their devices and data by implementing policies that control user access to corporate applications, enforce strong passwords, enable device encryption, and more. It’s not just about which platform is more secure, but also how each platform works with MDM tools to protect corporate data.
Apple’s iPhones are known for their security features. The company builds its devices with privacy and security in mind, incorporating a hardware-based encryption system called Secure Enclave. This security chip protects sensitive user data even if the device’s main processor is compromised. Apple tightly controls its App Store to limit the availability of malicious apps that could compromise user data. Moreover, automated enrollment through MDM and Apple Business Manager simplifies the provisioning process for IT teams, ensuring secure device management even after a device reset.
On the other hand, Android is available on a wide range of devices, which means Google has less control over security updates and patches within its open-source ecosystem. This lack of control has raised concerns among IT administrators, especially when centrally managing devices with MDM. Nevertheless, Google has implemented measures to enhance Android’s security, including more extensive encryption standards, the ability to perform remote wipes, and features like work profiles and fully managed mode in Android Enterprise that offer greater separation and protection of work and personal data. Additionally, Google Play Protect continuously scans apps for malware to keep users’ devices safe.
When it comes to formulating a mobile security policy, IT professionals need to consider device management, OS updates, and malware risks for both Android and iOS devices. Apple Business Manager allows IT administrators to enforce supervision on corporate-only devices, granting them higher-level management privileges for effective control. Android provides strong management functionality and offers more hardware options to suit specific needs. Both platforms have their own approaches to OS updates, with Apple typically rolling them out to all supported devices simultaneously, while Android offers a more streamlined process in the form of Project Mainline. In terms of malware, Apple’s closed ecosystem and strict control over app distribution contribute to a more secure environment, while the open nature of Android makes it more susceptible to attacks. However, Android benefits from the ability of security researchers to report vulnerabilities, and tools like Google Play Protect provide additional protection against harmful applications.
Ultimately, with effective device management and the right MDM policies in place, both iPhone and Android can be highly secure. Organizations should focus on selecting devices with essential features, managing them centrally, and prioritizing the end-user experience. Most modern devices offer the necessary tools and features to ensure mobile security, and it’s crucial for IT teams and end-users to actively protect against threats such as malware and unpatched operating systems. Striking a balance between security and usability is key in the ongoing Android vs. iOS security debate.