Dynamic Groups for Bulk Management

Managing a large number of devices across an organization can often feel like an overwhelming challenge, requiring time, effort, and precision. IT teams constantly look for smarter solutions to reduce this complexity and ensure smooth operations. One such solution is Dynamic Groups – an intelligent and automated approach to organizing and managing devices across an organization.

Dynamic groups empower IT teams by streamlining how devices are organized, configured, and managed. They adapt to the ever-evolving requirements of an organization, allowing efficient and effortless implementation of changes across thousands of devices.

In this blog, we’ll explore what dynamic groups are, how they function, and why they’ve become an essential tool for IT admins.

What are dynamic groups?

Dynamic groups are device groups created based on criteria set by the IT admin, with membership automatically adjusting over time. Unlike static groups, which require manual updates, dynamic groups update in real-time, reflecting the current compliance status of devices. Devices move in and out of the group during periodic syncs based on whether they meet the specified conditions. This automated approach minimizes manual effort, offering a more efficient and scalable solution for managing devices.

Customizing device management policies with dynamic parameters

How dynamic groups work?

Dynamic groups operate on a simple principle: devices that meet the defined criteria are included, while those that don’t are automatically excluded. The administrator can set rules based on criteria like device information, user information, network information, operating system or compliance. Consequently, devices get added or removed from the group during auto-sync, based on the defined criteria.

For example, an IT admin has specified a particular version of an operating system as the defining criteria for a dynamic group. As devices in the organization with earlier versions are upgraded to match the specified OS, they get added to the dynamic group and if some devices that were initially included within the dynamic groups are downgraded, they automatically get removed from the dynamic group.

Benefits of using dynamic groups

Dynamic groups bring several benefits to the table, which include:

Automation

Dynamic groups are a game changer for device management as they automate the process of identifying which devices are currently in compliance with the enforced policies and which are not. It reduces or even eliminates the need for manual intervention and thus reduces human oversight and error.

Improved security

With real-time access to an up-to-date list of compliant devices, IT admins can ensure that all devices remain aligned with organizational security policies. Additionally, they can swiftly take corrective actions to address any non-compliant devices.

Scalability

Dynamic groups are scalable on-the-go. They can accommodate both small groups of devices as well as thousands of devices spread across multiple locations at the same time. When an organization adds more devices, dynamic groups expand effortlessly, ensuring that device management is up-to-date.

Why is cloud-based UEM the future of device management?

Dynamic groups in Hexnode

Hexnode makes dynamic grouping easy so that you can control any number of devices with a click. Hexnode evaluates the criteria for dynamic groups from time-to-time. When devices meet the specified conditions, they auto-sync with the hexnode portal and the policies associated with that dynamic group are enforced as a result.

Check out our help documentation on dynamic device groups to learn how to set up dynamic groups with Hexnode UEM.

What ‘dynamic groups’ in Hexnode offer?

Dynamic groups in Hexnode simplify device management by automating processes and streamlining IT workflows. From performing remote actions to tracking device locations, these features enhance control and efficiency at scale. Here’s a closer look at what dynamic groups in Hexnode can do:

Automatically group devices based on dynamic conditions

Set specific conditions using device or user attributes—like platform type, OS version, department, compliance status, user role, or even custom fields. Devices that meet these conditions are automatically added to the group, and removed when they no longer qualify.

Assign policies and configurations automatically

Link policies, restrictions, apps, network settings, and more to a dynamic group. Any device that enters the group automatically inherits the assigned configurations—ensuring consistent management without manual intervention.

Real-time updates as device attributes change

Dynamic groups are constantly updated. If a device’s attributes change (for example, an OS update or a shift from non-compliant to compliant), its group membership is adjusted automatically, and the appropriate policies are applied in real-time.

Use custom attributes for granular control

Hexnode supports custom fields, allowing you to define group conditions with maximum flexibility. This helps in segmenting devices beyond standard parameters—such as grouping by project code, hardware type, or region.

Bulk manage devices without bulk effort

Whether it’s updating settings, pushing apps, or changing restrictions—any bulk action linked to a dynamic group happens automatically as devices enter or exit the group. This eliminates repetitive tasks and ensures zero lag in enforcement.

Maintain compliance effortlessly

Set up groups to dynamically track and manage compliant vs. non-compliant devices. Apply remediation steps or restricted access policies instantly as devices fall out of compliance, helping maintain security posture across the fleet.

Use cases

Dynamic grouping opens up countless possibilities for managing devices efficiently. Let’s explore a few practical examples of how it can be applied based on different criteria:

1. Grouping based on compliance info

You can choose ‘non-compliant’ devices as your condition filter for a specified area, say Los Angelos, and then all the non-compliant devices in your organization, within Los Angelos will get marked up. You can then perform bulk action on these devices, such as choosing to remotely wipe these devices in one shot.

2. Grouping based on the device operating system

Suppose you want to send a broadcast message to all devices outside New York, operating on iOS 17. You can select iOS 17 as the operating system when specifying your condition for dynamic grouping. You can then send the broadcast message and rest assured; it will be notified to all devices within the dynamic group operating outside New York.

3. Grouping based on the ownership of the device

For organizations that follow the BYOD (Bring your own device) policy, dynamic grouping with ownership set to personal, can help in implementing restrictions for these employee devices that would be activated when they enter company premises.

In a nutshell

Dynamic groups provide a modern, automated approach to managing devices efficiently within an organization. They keep track of device compliance in real-time, eliminating manual effort, saving time, and reducing administrative overhead. With dynamic groups, organizations can ensure better control, compliance, and scalability in device management. Overall, they are an essential tool for IT teams looking to streamline operations and maintain a secure, well-organized device environment.

Explore Hexnode’s dynamic group capabilities today and elevate how you manage your devices.