How to Reduce IT Costs Using UEM?
Learn how Hexnode helps cut IT costs through automation, streamlined device management, and enhanced security perfect for ROI-focused UEM evaluations.
In today’s hybrid work environment, managing a diverse fleet of devices securely and efficiently is a top priority for IT teams. Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) platforms have become essential tools for streamlining device provisioning, enforcing security policies, and ensuring compliance across mobile, desktop, and IoT endpoints.
Two leading contenders in this space – Hexnode and ManageEngine Endpoint Central – offer powerful solutions tailored to different organizational needs. Whether you’re an IT manager at a growing startup or a mid-sized enterprise, choosing the right UEM platform can significantly impact your operational efficiency and security posture.
This blog provides a comprehensive comparison of Hexnode and ManageEngine across key dimensions. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision based on your organization’s unique requirements.
Overview of the Two Platforms
When evaluating UEM solutions for small to medium-sized businesses, Hexnode and ManageEngine Endpoint Central (formerly Desktop Central) stand out as two robust contenders.
Platform Support & Device Compatibility
When selecting a UEM solution, platform support and device compatibility are critical factors – especially for IT managers managing diverse device fleets.
Hexnode UEM
Hexnode has significantly expanded its platform support in recent years, making it one of the most versatile UEM solutions available. It supports:
- Mobile OS: Android, iOS/iPadOS, Fire OS
- Desktop OS: Windows, macOS, Linux
- Other Platforms: tvOS, visionOS, ChromeOS, Android TV OS
Highlights:
- Linux Support: Includes remote control, OS update control, app management, and custom script execution.
- ChromeOS Support: Offers bulk enrollment, kiosk mode, app restrictions, and remote actions.
- visionOS Support: Enables location tracking, app scanning, and remote actions.
- Minimum OS Requirements: Android 5.0+, iOS 11+, Windows 10 v1703+, macOS 10.7+, Linux (Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian), ChromeOS, visionOS 1.1+.
Featured resource
Hexnode Unified Endpoint Management
Explore Hexnode’s full UEM capabilities in this datasheet - covering device support, security features, integrations, and deployment models.
Download DatasheetManageEngine Endpoint Central
ManageEngine Endpoint Central focuses primarily on traditional enterprise platforms, offering deep functionality for:
- Desktop OS: Windows, macOS, Linux
- Mobile OS: Android, iOS (via Mobile Device Manager Plus)
- Server OS: Windows Server editions (2008 to 2022)
- Linux Distros: Red Hat, Ubuntu, Debian, CentOS, SUSE, Oracle Linux, Rocky Linux, AlmaLinux, Amazon Linux.
Highlights:
- Windows-Centric Features: Extensive support for patching, remote control, software deployment, and system tools.
- Linux Support: Includes patching, software deployment, and custom script execution.
- Mobile Device Management: Available as an add-on via Mobile Device Manager Plus, which supports Android, iOS, and Chromebook enrollment.
Security and Compliance
Security and compliance are non-negotiable for IT managers, where resources may be limited but risks are just as real.
Hexnode UEM
Hexnode places a strong emphasis on data privacy, endpoint security, and regulatory compliance, offering a layered security model that spans device, network, and data protection.
Key Security Features:
- Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Includes containerization, copy/paste restrictions, USB/Bluetooth lockdown, and selective corporate wipe.
- Encryption Management: Supports BitLocker and FileVault for full-disk encryption.
- Conditional Access: Integrates with Microsoft Entra ID to restrict access based on device compliance.
- Lost Mode & Device Lockdown: Enables real-time location tracking, instant lockdown, and custom messages for lost devices.
- Secure Messaging: Hexnode Messenger allows secure broadcast communication across devices.
Compliance Certifications:
- ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certified for its Information Security Management System (ISMS).
- SOC 2 Type 2 attested with no exceptions, covering security, availability, and confidentiality.
- GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS compliance support through built-in policy templates and audit tools.
ManageEngine Endpoint Central
ManageEngine offers a security-first UEM platform that integrates endpoint protection directly into its management console, making it a powerful tool for organizations with complex security needs.
Key Security Features:
- Vulnerability Management: Scans for CVEs, misconfigurations, and zero-day threats with remediation scripts.
- Application & Device Control: Includes USB lockdown, app blocklisting, and privilege management.
- Browser & Malware Protection: Uses behavioral detection and AI engines for real-time threat mitigation.
- BitLocker Management: Centralized encryption control for Windows devices.
- Data Leak Prevention (DLP): Offers sensitive data discovery, classification, and access control.
Compliance Support:
- CIS Benchmarks: Supports over 75+ benchmarks for configuration compliance.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Built-in support for GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and Essential Cybersecurity Controls (ECC).
- Security Audits: Includes antivirus audits, high-risk software detection, and web server hardening.
Security and Compliance
| Feature / Capability | Hexnode UEM | ManageEngine Endpoint Central |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption Management | BitLocker (Windows), FileVault (macOS) | BitLocker (Windows), FileVault (macOS), full disk encryption reporting |
| Data Loss Prevention (DLP) | USB/Bluetooth lockdown, copy/paste restrictions, containerization | Endpoint DLP (available in Security Edition), USB lockdown, app control |
| Compliance Certifications | ISO/IEC 27001:2022, SOC 2 Type 2, GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS | HIPAA (On-Premise), GDPR, PCI DSS, FISMA, NIST, CIS Benchmarks |
| Security Benchmarks | Built-in compliance checklists aligned with global standards | Official CIS Benchmark policies (L1 & L2), certified by CIS for audits |
| Threat Detection & Remediation | Integration with Check Point Harmony Mobile, Vanta, Drata | Vulnerability assessment, zero-day threat detection, patch remediation |
| Secure Browsing | Hexnode Secure Browser with web content filtering & kiosk mode | Browser security policies, URL filtering, phishing protection |
| Lost/Stolen Device Protection | Real-time location tracking, lost mode, selective corporate wipe | Remote lock, wipe, location tracking, device control policies |
| Network Security | Enforce VPN/Wi-Fi policies, TLS encryption, AWS-hosted data centers | Network access control, firewall status reporting, secure patch delivery |
User Experience & Interface
A UEM solution’s usability can significantly impact IT efficiency and user adoption. For IT managers, a clean, intuitive interface and a responsive user experience are essential. Let’s explore how Hexnode and ManageEngine Endpoint Central compare in this area.
Hexnode UEM
Hexnode is designed with a modern, intuitive UI that emphasizes simplicity and ease of navigation. Its cloud-based dashboard provides centralized control over all endpoints, with minimal setup and a short learning curve.
User Experience Highlights:
- Customizable App UI: Admins can tailor the Hexnode app interface for macOS and iOS, controlling what users see and access – such as enrollment details, app catalogs, compliance status, and message notifications.
- Windows Update Experience: Offers granular control over how users interact with update notifications, restart schedules, and deadlines.
- User & Asset Dashboards: Provides detailed views of user activity, device compliance, and remote actions, all accessible from a clean, filterable dashboard.
ManageEngine Endpoint Central
ManageEngine Endpoint Central offers a feature-rich, multi-pane web console that caters to enterprise-grade endpoint management. While it may appear more complex initially, it provides deep functionality and modular navigation.
User Experience Highlights:
- Tabbed Interface: Includes dedicated tabs for configurations, patches, software deployment, inventory, OS deployment, and more.
- End-User Experience Management (EUEM): Offers real-time telemetry, interactive dashboards, and automated remediation to improve digital employee experience (DEX).
- Endpoint Analytics: Tracks performance metrics like CPU usage, boot time, and application reliability, generating experience scores and baseline comparisons.
- Role-Based Access Control: Allows granular user permissions and custom roles for better administrative control.
Real-World Success: Evollu’s Journey with Hexnode
Evollu, a Portugal-based health tech company, distributes Android smartphones for hearing tests via its proprietary app. To manage these devices securely and efficiently, they adopted Hexnode UEM, which offered reliable kiosk mode, bulk onboarding, and Android Enterprise containerization – solving the limitations of their previous solutions and ensuring full control over device functionality.
Key Outcomes:
- Seamless bulk enrollment using Android Enterprise
- Over-the-air app distribution without user interaction
- Volume control lockdown to ensure consistent testing conditions
- Enhanced data security and user experience
“Hexnode proved to be the right choice from the very beginning.” – Luis Marcelino, CTO at Evollu
Integration Options
Integration capabilities are vital for IT managers looking to streamline workflows, enhance security, and unify endpoint management with existing enterprise tools.
Hexnode UEM
Hexnode provides a wide array of integrations across identity management, IT service desks, security platforms, and enterprise mobility tools. These integrations are designed to simplify device enrollment, automate workflows, and enhance endpoint security.
Key Integration Categories:
- Directory Services: Microsoft Entra ID (Azure AD), Google Workspace, Okta, Microsoft AD
- ITSM & Helpdesk: Freshservice, Zendesk
- Security Platforms: Check Point Harmony Mobile, Vanta, Drata
Enterprise Mobility & OEMs:
- Samsung Knox, Lenovo, LG GATE
- Zebra, Honeywell, Kyocera, Datalogic, Motorola, and more
Highlights:
- Microsoft Entra ID Integration: Enables conditional access, user sync, and policy enforcement from a single console.
- Google Workspace Integration: Simplifies device enrollment and syncs user/group data for policy automation.
- Security Enhancements: Integrations with Harmony Mobile and Vanta provide real-time threat insights and compliance automation.
ManageEngine Endpoint Central
ManageEngine Endpoint Central offers deep and modular integrations across ITSM, SIEM, vulnerability management, analytics, and asset tracking platforms. These integrations are tailored for enterprises seeking comprehensive control and visibility.
Key Integration Categories:
- Identity & Directory Services: Microsoft Entra ID (Azure AD)
- ITSM & Helpdesk: ServiceDesk Plus, Zendesk, AssetExplorer, ServiceNow
- Security & SIEM: Splunk Enterprise, Log360, Rapid7 InsightVM, CrowdStrike Falcon Spotlight
Analytics & Reporting:
- Business Intelligence tools, Service Graph Connector for ServiceNow
Highlights:
- Advanced Security Integrations: Real-time threat detection and remediation via integrations with Rapid7 and CrowdStrike.
- Asset Management: Seamless sync with AssetExplorer and ServiceDesk Plus for real-time inventory and ticketing.
- Customizable Helpdesk Workflows: Ticket templates, media attachments, and privacy settings for end-user support.
Integration Options
| Integration Category | Hexnode UEM | ManageEngine Endpoint Central |
|---|---|---|
| Directory Services | Microsoft Entra ID, Google Workspace, Okta, Microsoft AD | Microsoft Entra ID, Active Directory |
| ITSM & Helpdesk | Freshservice, Zendesk | ServiceDesk Plus, Freshservice, ServiceNow (with Service Graph Connector), Zendesk |
| Security Platforms | Check Point Harmony Mobile, Vanta, Drata | CrowdStrike Falcon Spotlight, Rapid7 InsightVM, Log360, Splunk Enterprise |
| SIEM Integration | Not natively supported | Syslog forwarding to QRadar, Splunk, LogRhythm, Elastic Security |
| Analytics & Reporting | Basic dashboard analytics | Analytics Plus (AI-powered reports, trend forecasting, data blending) |
| OEM & Device Vendors | Samsung Knox, Lenovo, LG GATE, Zebra, Kyocera, Datalogic, Honeywell, Motorola, Nokia, Archos, Bluebird, Unitech | Not explicitly listed; supports standard device management across vendors |
| Patch & Vulnerability Management | App patch scheduling for Windows, Linux, macOS | Deep integration with vulnerability scanners and patch deployment tools |
| Mobile Threat Defense (MTD) | Harmony Mobile integration for iOS/Android threat insights | CrowdStrike integration for real-time threat visibility and remediation |
Pricing & Licensing
For IT managers in small to medium-sized businesses, pricing and licensing flexibility can be a decisive factor when choosing a UEM solution.
Hexnode UEM
Hexnode uses a per-device pricing model with four subscription tiers, each offering increasing levels of functionality. All plans include a 14-day free trial with full access to the Ultra tier.
Hexnode Pricing Plans (Annual billing per device):
| Plan | Monthly (USD) | Annual (USD) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pro | $2.40 | $2.20 | Advanced MDM + Kiosk Essentials |
| Enterprise | $3.60 | $3.20 | Basic UEM + Advanced Kiosk |
| Ultimate | $5.20 | $4.70 | Advanced UEM + Complete Kiosk |
| Ultra | Custom Quote | Custom Quote | Complete UEM + SCCM Integration |
ManageEngine Endpoint Central
ManageEngine offers endpoint-based pricing with multiple editions and optional add-ons. Licensing is available as annual subscription or perpetual license (with annual maintenance costs).
Endpoint Central Pricing (Annual, Cloud Edition for 100 endpoints):
| Edition | Annual (USD) | Monthly (USD) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional | $1,895 | $189 | Basic endpoint management |
| Enterprise | $2,345 | $234 | Advanced patching, remote control |
| UEM | $2,695 | $269 | Mobile device management, kiosk mode |
| Security | $3,945 | $395 | Vulnerability management, DLP, encryption |
Licensing Highlights:
- Free edition available for up to 25 endpoints.
- Separate pricing for servers vs. workstations introduced in 2024.
- Additional technician licenses available starting at $445/year.
- Discounts available for education, government, and non-profits.
Customer Support & Community
Strong customer support and an active user community are essential for IT managers who rely on timely assistance and peer collaboration.
Hexnode UEM
Hexnode provides free, global support across multiple channels and has invested heavily in building a collaborative user community.
Support Channels:
- Email, Phone & Chat Support: Available across regions including the US, UK, Australia, and India.
- Help Center: Extensive documentation, FAQs, and troubleshooting guides.
- Hexnode Academy: Offers structured training videos and certification resources for admins and partners.
- Webinars & Demos: Regular sessions on new features, best practices, and product walkthroughs.
- Hexnode Connect: A revamped community platform offering: Customized feeds based on user interests (e.g., kiosk management, remote actions)
ManageEngine Endpoint Central
ManageEngine offers tiered support plans and a well-established community platform, catering to both SMBs and large enterprises.
Support Channels:
- Classic Support: Free with subscription; includes email, chat, remote sessions, and access to updates.
- Premium Support: 24/7 multi-channel assistance, Dedicated account manager, Health checks and custom product support.
- Knowledge Base & How-To Guides: Covers a wide range of technical scenarios.
- Free Training & Demos: Available for onboarding and feature exploration.
Community Engagement:
- Pitstop Community: A dedicated forum for Endpoint Central users to: Ask questions, share ideas, and report issues, Track tickets and interact with ManageEngine experts.
Customer Support & Community
| Feature / Capability | Hexnode UEM | ManageEngine Endpoint Central |
|---|---|---|
| Support Channels | Email, phone, live chat, ticketing system | Email, phone, chat, ticketing system |
| Global Support Availability | Offices in US, UK, EU, India, UAE, South Africa, Singapore | Offices in US, India, Singapore; global toll-free numbers |
| Free Support Access | Included with all plans (no extra cost) | Classic support included with subscription; Premium support is paid |
| Premium Support | Not tiered; all users get full access | Includes 24/7 support, health checks, custom product support, dedicated contact |
| Training Resources | Hexnode Academy, webinars, help center, product walkthroughs | Free training sessions, product videos, knowledge base, how-to guides |
| Partner Ecosystem | MSP, OEM, reseller, distributor programs | Global partner network with reseller and MSP support |
| Developer Resources | API documentation, Hexnode Gateway, integration guides | API Explorer, integration documentation, custom script support |
| Support Response Time | Typically within hours; personalized follow-up | Classic: within 8 hours; Premium: within 3 hours |
| Onboarding Assistance | Guided setup during 14-day trial, no credit card required | Personalized demo available on request; onboarding support via Premium plan |
Ready to Experience Hexnode in Action?
Schedule Your Free DemoFAQs: Hexnode vs ManageEngine
Which platform is easier to deploy for a small IT team?
Hexnode is often praised for its quick setup and intuitive UI, making it ideal for small IT teams with limited resources. ManageEngine offers more granular control but may require more initial configuration and training.
Does Hexnode support Linux and ChromeOS devices?
Yes, Hexnode supports Linux (Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian) and ChromeOS with features like remote actions, kiosk mode, and app restrictions. ManageEngine also supports Linux but ChromeOS support is more limited and may require additional modules.
Which solution offers better patch management capabilities?
ManageEngine is known for its robust patch management across OS and third-party apps, including scheduling, testing, and approval workflows. Hexnode offers basic patching features but focuses more on mobile and kiosk environments.
Is there a free version available for testing?
Hexnode: Offers a 14-day free trial with full access to its Ultra plan.
ManageEngine: Provides a free edition for up to 25 endpoints, ideal for small-scale testing.
Which platform has better support for Apple devices?
Hexnode is often preferred for Apple environments due to its strong support for ABM, VPP, and visionOS. ManageEngine supports Apple devices but may require additional configuration for advanced features.
Can I manage both mobile and desktop devices from a single console?
Yes, both platforms offer unified dashboards to manage mobile (Android, iOS) and desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) devices. Hexnode emphasizes simplicity, while ManageEngine provides more detailed control.
Conclusion
Both Hexnode and ManageEngine Endpoint Central bring strong capabilities to the table, but they cater to different priorities and IT environments.
Hexnode shines with its clean interface, flexible pricing, and broad platform support, making it an excellent choice for SMBs seeking simplicity, scalability, and responsive support.
ManageEngine, on the other hand, offers deep enterprise-grade features, advanced analytics, and modular integrations, ideal for organizations with complex IT infrastructures and a need for granular control.
Ultimately, the best UEM solution depends on your team’s size, technical maturity, and specific management goals. By evaluating the strengths and trade-offs outlined in this comparison, IT managers can confidently select a platform that aligns with their operational strategy and growth trajectory.
Ready to See Hexnode in Action?
Sign up for a free trial and explore how Hexnode simplifies endpoint management for IT teams.
Start Free Trial NowDisclaimer: This comparison is based on publicly available information as of October 2025. Features and pricing for Hexnode and ManageEngine are subject to change. We recommend visiting the official websites of both companies for the most current information. All product and company names are trademarks™ or registered® trademarks of their respective holders. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by them.
