Hexnode vs SOTI MobiControl: Feature-by-Feature Comparison

In today’s hyper-connected enterprise landscape, managing a diverse fleet of endpoints – ranging from smartphones and laptops to rugged devices and IoT endpoints – has become essential to keeping teams secure and connected. As organizations embrace hybrid work models, the need for a robust Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) solution has never been more critical.

Two prominent players in this space – Hexnode and SOTI – offer comprehensive UEM platforms designed to streamline device management, enhance security, and optimize IT operations. While both vendors provide powerful capabilities, their approaches, feature sets, and ecosystem integrations differ significantly, making the choice between them a nuanced decision for IT leaders.

This blog delivers a detailed, side-by-side comparison of Hexnode vs SOTI across key dimensions that matter most to IT decision-makers – ranging from platform support and security to automation, integrations, and total cost of ownership.

Whether you’re evaluating a new UEM solution or considering a switch, this guide will help you make an informed, strategic choice aligned with your organization’s mobility goals.

Overview of the Two Platforms

Hexnode and SOTI are two leading Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) solutions, each tailored to distinct enterprise needs. This section explores their core architectures and strengths to help you understand which platform aligns best with your organization’s mobility strategy.

Hexnode is trusted by both SMBs and large enterprises, and has earned recognition from Gartner, IDC, and Forrester for its innovation and usability.

Platform Support & Device Compatibility

When evaluating a UEM solution, platform support and device compatibility are critical factors that determine how well the solution integrates with your existing infrastructure and scales with future needs.

Hexnode UEM: Broad OS Coverage with Modern Enterprise Focus

Hexnode UEM supports a wide array of operating systems and device types, making it a versatile choice for organizations with diverse endpoint environments. The platform is optimized for:

Mobile OS: Android (5.0+), iOS/iPadOS (11.0+), Fire OS (5.0+)
Desktop OS: Windows 10/11 (v1703+), macOS (10.7+), Linux (Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian)
Other Platforms: tvOS (6.0+), visionOS (1.1+), ChromeOS

Hexnode’s compatibility matrix includes:

• Android Enterprise & OEM Integrations: Seamless support for Android Enterprise, Samsung Knox, LG Enterprise, and Kyocera devices. Silent app installations, kiosk modes, and granular restrictions are available across Android.
• Apple Ecosystem: Supervised and unsupervised iOS/iPadOS devices are supported with features like single/multi-app kiosk, AirPlay, AirPrint, and custom configurations. macOS management includes scripting support (Bash, Python, Ruby, etc.) and app control.
• Windows Management: Hexnode supports MSI-based silent installations, BitLocker encryption, Defender integration, and kiosk modes for Windows 10/11 Pro devices.
• Linux & ChromeOS: Recent expansions include support for Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, and ChromeOS, enabling policy enforcement and remote actions on open-source platforms.
• visionOS & tvOS: Hexnode is among the few UEMs to support Apple’s visionOS, enabling management of spatial computing devices alongside Apple TVs for digital signage and conferencing.

This broad compatibility makes Hexnode ideal for organizations embracing modern, cloud-first infrastructure with a mix of mobile, desktop, and emerging platforms.

SOTI MobiControl: Deep Compatibility with Legacy and Rugged Devices

SOTI MobiControl is engineered for environments where rugged, legacy, and mission-critical devices are prevalent. Its platform support includes:

Mobile OS: Android (4.2+), iOS (7.0+), Windows Mobile/CE (5.0+)
Desktop OS: Windows 10+, macOS (10.12+), Linux (Ubuntu 16.04+, Raspbian 8.0+)
Other Platforms: ChromeOS, Zebra wireless printers, RFID readers

SOTI’s compatibility highlights:

• Android Plus & Enterprise: Supports Android Classic (4.2-12) and Android Enterprise (5-14), with device agent-based management for advanced control. SOTI XTreme accelerates data delivery to remote Android devices.
• Apple Devices: iPhones, iPads running iOS 8.0+ are supported, along with macOS 10.12+.
• Windows Ecosystem: Extensive support for Windows Desktop Classic, Windows Modern (10+), and legacy Windows CE/Mobile platforms. This makes SOTI ideal for logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors still reliant on older Windows devices.
• Linux & ChromeOS: Supports x86, x64, and ARM-based Linux devices, including Zebra RFID readers. ChromeOS support includes policy enforcement and remote actions.
• Peripheral Devices: Unique among UEMs, SOTI supports Zebra wireless printers and other IoT peripherals, enabling centralized control of non-traditional endpoints.

SOTI’s strength lies in its ability to manage legacy systems and rugged devices with precision, making it a preferred choice for industries with specialized hardware and long device lifecycles.

Device Management and Enrollment Capabilities

Effective device onboarding and lifecycle management are foundational to any UEM strategy. Both Hexnode and SOTI MobiControl offer robust enrollment workflows and device management capabilities, but they differ in terms of automation, flexibility, and specialization.

Hexnode UEM: Streamlined, Flexible Enrollment for Modern Enterprises

Hexnode offers a wide range of enrollment methods designed to accommodate various enterprise scenarios – from BYOD to COPE and COBO. Its enrollment architecture is built for simplicity, automation, and integration with identity providers.

Supported Enrollment Methods:

Zero-Touch Enrollment:

• Apple Automated Device Enrollment (ADE): Devices are supervised and managed from first boot via Apple Business Manager.
• Android Zero-Touch Enrollment: Seamless provisioning of corporate-owned Android devices with pre-configured policies.
• Samsung Knox Mobile Enrollment (KME): Persistent enrollment even after factory resets.
• Windows Autopilot: Pre-register and configure Windows 10/11 devices for out-of-box readiness.

ROM-Based Enrollment: Flashing Hexnode as a system app for deep control over Android devices – ideal for rugged or kiosk deployments.

Self-Enrollment: Users can enroll devices using credentials from Active Directory, Microsoft Entra ID, Google Workspace, or Okta. This reduces IT overhead and supports MFA/SSO.

Bulk Enrollment: CSV-based import for mass provisioning of devices with pre-assigned policies.

Apple Configurator & Account-Driven Enrollment: For organizations without ABM, Hexnode supports USB-based provisioning and Managed Apple ID-based enrollment.

Device Management Features:

• Policy-Based Management: Apply restrictions, configurations, and compliance rules across platforms.
• Remote Actions: Lock, wipe, restart, and push updates remotely.
• Kiosk Mode: Single/multi-app lockdown for Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS.
• App Management: Silent installation, app blacklisting, and version control.
• Directory Sync: Real-time sync with AD, Entra ID, Google Workspace, and Okta for user-based policy assignment.

Hexnode’s enrollment ecosystem is designed for speed, security, and scalability – making it ideal for organizations with modern infrastructure and distributed workforces.

SOTI MobiControl: Industrial-Grade Enrollment for Rugged and Legacy Devices

SOTI MobiControl excels in environments where rugged devices, legacy systems, and IoT endpoints are prevalent. Its enrollment capabilities are tailored for high-volume, mission-critical deployments.

Supported Enrollment Methods:

SOTI Stage: Barcode-based enrollment for Android Plus and Windows Mobile/CE devices – ideal for warehouse and logistics use cases.

Unified Enrollment: A common launch point across Android, iOS, and Windows platforms for consistent onboarding.

Third-Party Integrations:

• Apple DEP
• Android Zero-Touch
• Samsung KME
• Windows Autopilot
• Zebra StageNow for printer and rugged device provisioning.

Agent-Based Enrollment: Devices install a lightweight SOTI agent (~10MB) that communicates with the MobiControl server for ongoing management.

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Device Management Features:

• Full Lifecycle Management: From provisioning to retirement, including firmware updates and OS patching.
• SOTI XTreme Technology: Accelerates app/data delivery by up to 10X, especially in bandwidth-constrained environments.
• Shared Device Configuration: Supports shift-based access with personalized profiles using Managed Apple ID or Microsoft Entra ID Shared Device Mode.
• Remote Support: Advanced remote control, screen annotation, and diagnostics.
• IoT & Peripheral Management: Includes Zebra printers, RFID readers, and Linux-based IoT endpoints.

SOTI’s enrollment and management capabilities are built for scale, resilience, and precision – making it the go-to solution for industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics.

🏆 Customer Success Highlight: Goudy Honda

Goudy Honda, one of the largest Honda dealerships in the U.S., witnessed a staggering 90% improvement in time spent on device management after switching to Hexnode. The organization faced challenges managing iPads used by sales staff and service advisors. Initially, they relied on third-party apps to lock devices to specific websites and applications, but those solutions failed to deliver the required control and reliability.

By deploying Hexnode UEM, Goudy Honda was able to:

• Lock devices into kiosk mode for focused usage
• Enforce policy-based restrictions across multiple endpoints
• Remotely manage and monitor devices from a centralized dashboard
• Ensure devices were used strictly for work purposes, improving productivity and compliance

This demonstrates Hexnode’s effectiveness in retail and field environments – areas where SOTI traditionally excels due to its rugged device support. Goudy Honda’s experience shows that Hexnode can deliver enterprise-grade control and efficiency even in demanding, customer-facing operations.

🔗 Read the full story

Security and Compliance

In an era of increasing cyber threats, data privacy regulations, and distributed workforces, security and compliance are non-negotiable pillars of any UEM solution.

Hexnode UEM: Security Built on Global Standards and Granular Policy Control

Hexnode’s security architecture is built on a foundation of internationally recognized standards and cloud-native infrastructure. The platform is hosted on Amazon Web Services (AWS), leveraging TLS encryption, DDoS mitigation, and firewall protection across its US and EU data centers.

Certifications and Compliance Frameworks:

• ISO/IEC 27001:2022 Certified: Hexnode is certified by BSI with no major non-conformities, ensuring its Information Security Management System (ISMS) meets global benchmarks.
• SOC 2 Type 2 Attested: Independently audited for security, availability, and confidentiality, Hexnode’s SOC 2 report confirms robust technical controls and risk management practices.
• GDPR Compliance: Hexnode enforces strict data privacy policies, ensuring personal data is never processed without user consent. Full transparency is maintained through its published Privacy Policy.

Security Features:

• Data Encryption: AES encryption for data at rest and TLS for data in transit. Devices are encrypted by default on iOS and Android 6.0+.
• Endpoint Protection: Password enforcement, remote wipe, jailbreak/root detection, and policy-based access control.
• Application & Network Security: WPA2 Enterprise Wi-Fi configurations, app blacklisting, and secure app deployment.
• Organizational Controls: Annual security training, secure development lifecycle, and internal risk mitigation repositories.

Compliance Management:

• Platform-Specific Policies: Tailored compliance rules for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, tvOS, and visionOS.
• Dynamic Grouping: Automatically segregates non-compliant devices for remediation.
• Advanced Criteria: Evaluate compliance based on battery level, encryption status, app presence, TPM version, geofence location, and more.
• Audit-Ready Reports: Real-time dashboards and exportable compliance summaries for regulatory audits.

Hexnode’s security model is ideal for organizations seeking a cloud-first, standards-compliant solution with granular control over device behavior and data protection.

SOTI MobiControl: Industrial-Grade Security for Complex Environments

SOTI MobiControl is designed for enterprises managing rugged, legacy, and IoT endpoints across distributed environments. Its security framework emphasizes visibility, control, and regulatory alignment.

Certifications and Compliance Frameworks:

• ISO/IEC 27001 Certified: Validated by KPMG, SOTI’s ISMS covers all SOTI ONE cloud-hosted products (AWS and Azure).
• SOC 2 Type II Audited: Comprehensive audit of security and availability controls across the SOTI ONE Platform.
• GDPR Compliance: SOTI enforces privacy safeguards for EU data subjects and offers contractual commitments for data protection.
• Cloud Security Alliance CAIQ: SOTI documents 295 security controls for cloud transparency and customer assurance.

Security Features:

• SOTI VPN: Secure tunneling for iOS, Android, and Windows devices to access corporate resources remotely.
• Patch & Firmware Management: Centralized dashboard for monitoring and deploying OS updates across Windows and Apple devices.
• App Network Controls: Block apps from accessing insecure Wi-Fi or cellular networks to prevent data leakage.
• Peripheral Control: Restrict USB and serial device connections on Windows endpoints.
• Windows Defender Firewall Integration: Native support for enforcing firewall rules on Windows Modern Devices.

Compliance Management:

• Custom Compliance Policies: Define rules using filtering logic across Android, iOS, and Linux devices.
• Real-Time Enforcement: Policies are evaluated at every device check-in, with non-compliant devices flagged instantly.
• Default & Custom Policies: Legacy devices use default compliance checks (e.g., jailbreak, enrollment status), while modern platforms support advanced criteria.
• Device Approval Workflow: Admins can manually approve device enrollments to prevent unauthorized access.

SOTI’s security model is tailored for high-risk, high-complexity environments where uptime, regulatory compliance, and granular control are paramount.

User Experience & Interface

The usability of a Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) solution directly impacts IT productivity, onboarding speed, and operational efficiency. A well-designed interface can simplify complex workflows, reduce training overhead, and empower administrators to manage endpoints with confidence.

Hexnode UEM: Intuitive, Customizable, and Cloud-Native

Hexnode’s interface is designed with simplicity and clarity in mind. Built as a cloud-native platform, its browser-based admin console offers a clean, modular layout that caters to both novice and experienced IT administrators.

Admin Console Experience

• Dashboard: A real-time overview of device status, compliance, app distribution, and recent activities.
• Tab-Based Navigation: Key functions are organized into intuitive tabs – Enroll, Manage, Policies, Apps, Content, Reports, Deploy, and Admin – making it easy to locate and execute tasks.
• Role-Based Access: Admins can assign granular roles to technicians, ensuring secure delegation of tasks across teams.

SOTI MobiControl: Powerful, Modular Console for Complex Environments

SOTI MobiControl’s interface is built for scale and depth, catering to enterprises with complex device ecosystems and specialized workflows. The console is divided into modular views, each handling a distinct aspect of device management.

Admin Console Experience

• Multi-View Console: Includes Devices, Servers, Security, Profiles, Packages, Rules, Compliance Policies, Reports, Content Library, and Alerts.
• Platform Tabs: Views are filtered based on device families (e.g., Android Plus, Apple, Linux), ensuring that only relevant features are shown for each platform.
• Legacy vs. Next-Gen UI: SOTI is transitioning to a modern UI, but legacy views are still accessible. Both interfaces are fully integrated, allowing seamless switching.
• Security View: Centralized user management with LDAP/IdP integration, granular permissions, and activity tracking.

Integration Options

A Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) solution’s ability to integrate with third-party services is crucial for streamlining IT workflows, enhancing security, and enabling automation across the enterprise stack.

Hexnode UEM: Broad, Modular Integrations for ITSM, IAM, and Security

Hexnode’s integration strategy focuses on enhancing endpoint visibility, automating compliance, and simplifying IT service management. The platform supports a wide range of third-party services across identity, security, and support domains.

Directory & Identity Management

• Microsoft Active Directory (AD)
• Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD): Enables conditional access, device registration, and compliance enforcement for Office 365.
• Google Workspace: Sync users and groups for policy-based device management.
• Okta: SSO and user-based enrollment for cloud-first organizations.

IT Service Management (ITSM)

• Freshservice: Sync Hexnode-managed assets with Freshservice’s ITSM portal. Admins can perform UEM actions directly from Freshservice.
• Zendesk: Link support tickets to managed devices. Admins can view device details and perform actions from the Zendesk console.

Security & Compliance

• Check Point Harmony Mobile: Integrates mobile threat defense for iOS and Android. Threat data from Harmony Mobile Protect is visible in Hexnode’s console.
• Drata & Vanta: Compliance automation tools for SOC 2, ISO 27001, and GDPR reporting on macOS and Windows endpoints.

Endpoint & OEM Integrations

• Samsung Knox, LG GATE, Lenovo, Zebra, Kyocera, Honeywell, Datalogic, Bluebird, Motorola, and more.

This modular integration approach makes Hexnode ideal for organizations seeking flexibility, cloud-native compatibility, and seamless ITSM workflows.

SOTI MobiControl: Deep Integration with Microsoft Ecosystem and SOTI ONE Platform

SOTI MobiControl’s integration strategy is tightly aligned with enterprise mobility, rugged device management, and Microsoft 365 compliance. It also connects deeply with other components of the SOTI ONE Platform.

Microsoft Ecosystem

• Microsoft Intune Integration: SOTI acts as a third-party compliance partner for Intune. Device compliance data from SOTI is used to enforce Conditional Access policies in Microsoft Entra ID.
• Microsoft 365 Conditional Access: Supports Android, iOS, and macOS. Devices are registered via SOTI and authenticated using Microsoft Authenticator or Company Portal.
• Microsoft Graph API Permissions: SOTI uses Graph API to automate compliance partner setup, device attribute updates, and SSO validation.

SOTI ONE Platform Integrations

• SOTI XSight: Advanced diagnostics and analytics for troubleshooting and performance monitoring.
• SOTI Connect: IoT device management for sensors, printers, and industrial endpoints.
• SOTI Snap: Rapid app development platform for building custom mobile workflows.

These integrations create a unified ecosystem for enterprises managing rugged devices, IoT endpoints, and complex compliance workflows.

Pricing & Licensing

Choosing the right Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) solution involves not only evaluating features and integrations but also understanding the pricing and licensing models. Cost-effectiveness, scalability, and transparency are key factors that influence long-term ROI. Hexnode and SOTI MobiControl offer distinct licensing approaches – Hexnode with a straightforward per-device subscription model, and SOTI with a more layered enterprise licensing structure.

Hexnode UEM: Transparent, Per-Device Subscription Model

Hexnode offers a pay-as-you-grow pricing model based on the number of devices managed. Organizations can choose from four subscription tiers, each with increasing feature depth and technician access.

Minimum License Requirement: 15 devices for cloud plans

Trial Period: 14-day free trial with full functionality, no credit card required

Technician Access: Varies by plan (2 to 5 default users), expandable

Support Fees: Included in subscription; no additional charges for maintenance

Billing Options: Monthly or annual (10% discount on annual billing)

Hexnode’s pricing is ideal for SMBs and mid-market enterprises seeking predictable costs and flexible scaling.

SOTI MobiControl: Enterprise Licensing with Subscription Transition

SOTI MobiControl has transitioned from perpetual licensing to a subscription-based model, effective September 2025. This shift aligns with modern enterprise needs for scalability, budgeting flexibility, and continuous updates.

Pricing Details

Pricing: All subscription plans are offered via custom quotes based on device volume and service tier.

Subscription Licensing: Pay only for the number of devices managed. Includes access to updates, support, and new features.

Minimum Order Quantity: 10 licenses per subscription tier

License Alerts: Admins can set thresholds for license usage and receive notifications

SOTI’s licensing is geared toward large enterprises with complex support needs and high device volumes.

Customer Support & Community

Reliable customer support and an active user community are essential for maximizing the value of a Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) solution. Whether it’s resolving technical issues, onboarding new admins, or staying updated on best practices, the quality of support and community engagement can significantly influence user satisfaction and long-term adoption.

Hexnode UEM: Global Support with a Vibrant Community Hub

Hexnode provides free email, phone, and chat support across all subscription tiers, ensuring that customers receive timely assistance regardless of their plan. Support is available 24×5, with dedicated teams across North America, Europe, APAC, and the Middle East.

Support Channels

• Email Support: Available via support@hexnode.com
• Phone Support: Toll-free numbers in the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, and direct lines in Switzerland, India, and South Africa
• Live Chat: Embedded in the admin console and website for real-time assistance
• Raise a Ticket: Web-based form for submitting detailed support requests

Self-Service Resources

• Hexnode Help Center: Extensive documentation, quickstart guides, and troubleshooting articles
• Hexnode Academy: On-demand training videos and certification programs for admins and partners
• Webinars & Demos: Regular sessions on new features, use cases, and best practices

Community Engagement

Hexnode hosts Hexnode Connect, a dynamic community forum where users can:

• Ask questions and get peer-to-peer support
• Share tips, scripts, and deployment strategies
• Participate in ideation threads and feature requests
• Stay updated on product releases and events

The community is active, with discussions spanning iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Linux, and ChromeOS management. Hexnode’s approach fosters collaboration and continuous learning among IT professionals.

SOTI MobiControl: Tiered Support with Enterprise-Focused Forums

SOTI offers a tiered support model aligned with its licensing plans. Customers with Premium, Enterprise, or Enterprise Plus service levels gain access to enhanced SLAs, dedicated portals, and technical account managers.

Support Channels

• Customer Portal: Available to premium-tier customers for logging cases, tracking issues, and accessing documentation
• Phone Support: Regional support lines across North America, Europe, and APAC
• Log a Case: Web form for submitting technical issues, with options to attach logs and device details

Self-Service Resources

• SOTI Central: A centralized hub for product documentation, release notes, and technical articles
• SOTI Pulse: A knowledge base with how-to guides and configuration walkthroughs
• Product Support Pages: Detailed help sections for MobiControl setup, licensing, and troubleshooting

Community Engagement

SOTI hosts the SOTI Pulse Discussion Forum, where users can:

• Engage in technical discussions
• Share deployment strategies
• Report bugs and request features
• Connect with SOTI partners and developers

While the community is more enterprise-focused and less conversational than Hexnode’s, it serves as a valuable resource for organizations managing rugged and mission-critical devices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does Hexnode or SOTI support zero-touch enrollment for Android and Apple devices?

Both platforms support Android Zero-Touch Enrollment, Samsung Knox Mobile Enrollment, and Apple Automated Device Enrollment (ADE). Hexnode also supports Windows Autopilot and QR code-based enrollment, while SOTI adds Zebra StageNow for rugged devices.

Is there a difference in pricing transparency between Hexnode and SOTI?

Yes. Hexnode offers clear, tiered pricing starting at $2.4/device/month with published feature breakdowns. SOTI uses a quote-based model with tiered support plans, making it less transparent upfront but more customizable for large deployments.

Which UEM is easier to deploy and manage for small IT teams?

Hexnode is generally easier to deploy and manage for small to mid-sized teams due to its intuitive UI, cloud-native architecture, and simplified policy engine. SOTI’s modular console is powerful but may require more training and onboarding.

What kind of customer support can I expect from Hexnode and SOTI?

Hexnode provides 24×5 support via email, phone, and live chat across all plans. SOTI offers tiered support – Standard, Premium, Enterprise, and Enterprise Plus – with varying SLAs and access to technical account managers.

Does Hexnode support emerging platforms like visionOS and tvOS?

Yes. Hexnode is one of the few UEMs that supports visionOS and tvOS, making it ideal for organizations adopting Apple’s spatial computing and digital signage solutions. SOTI currently does not support these platforms.

Conclusion

Choosing the right UEM solution is about aligning technology with your organization’s unique needs.

SOTI MobiControl is a strong contender for industries that rely on rugged devices, legacy systems, and specialized hardware integrations. Its robust diagnostics and modular architecture make it ideal for logistics, manufacturing, healthcare, and field services.

Hexnode UEM, with its cloud-native design and intuitive interface, caters well to SMBs and mid-market enterprises focused on scalability, hybrid work, and modern IT ecosystems. Its support for emerging platforms and seamless integration with ITSM, IAM, and compliance tools adds to its appeal.

Ultimately, your choice should reflect your device landscape, IT maturity, and strategic goals. Explore free trials, vendor demos, and community forums to gain hands-on experience before making a decision.