UEM Migration Handbook
A practical guide designed to help IT teams successfully migrate from Citrix Endpoint Management to a modern UEM solution.
Managing a vast fleet of enterprise endpoints requires a solution that is as agile as the modern workforce. For years, SOTI (particularly SOTI MobiControl) has been a staple for organizations with heavy investments in rugged devices and legacy operating systems. However, as IT environments evolve to include diverse BYOD policies, modern operating systems, and a demand for intuitive, cloud-first management, many IT administrators find themselves constrained by complex interfaces and rigid architectures.
This shift is driving organizations to search for a more versatile SOTI alternative that simplifies device administration without sacrificing advanced control.
This guide provides a comprehensive, head-to-head comparison of Hexnode and SOTI across device compatibility, security posture, integration capabilities, and total cost of ownership (TCO) to help you choose the right unified endpoint management (UEM) solution for your enterprise.
Why organizations evaluate a SOTI alternative
Based on industry evaluations and user feedback, here are the common pain points that drive IT leaders to look for a modern SOTI alternative:
Complex Interface and Steep Learning Curve: While highly capable, SOTI’s user interface is often described as unintuitive and fragmented. Managing users and managing devices sometimes require navigating completely different, redundant screens, which slows down routine IT operations.
Limited Depth in Apple Device Management: SOTI is a powerhouse for Android, but it often falls short for Apple-heavy environments. It lacks granular features that modern enterprises rely on, such as Autonomous Single App Mode for macOS or advanced multi-app kiosk configurations for iOS.
Integration Friction with Cloud Identity Providers: Modern UEM strategies rely heavily on smooth integrations with cloud-based Identity and Access Management (IAM) tools. Users have reported that SOTI’s integration with platforms like Okta is relatively poor and lacks the plug-and-play simplicity offered by newer cloud-first solutions.
Support and Troubleshooting Bottlenecks: When issues arise, such as delayed policy execution or agent update failures – getting timely and effective resolution from tech support can be challenging, leaving IT teams to troubleshoot complex backend configurations on their own.
An Executive Decision Matrix: Hexnode vs. SOTI MobiControl
Here is a high-level, feature-by-feature comparison of Hexnode and SOTI MobiControl to help you quickly assess which platform aligns with your operational needs:
| Decision Factor | Hexnode UEM | SOTI MobiControl |
|---|---|---|
| Modern OS Support | ✓ Comprehensive support across Android, iOS/iPadOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, tvOS, and Apple visionOS. | ✓ Strong core OS support (Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux), but less agile with emerging platforms like Apple visionOS or ChromeOS. |
| Rugged Device Management | ✓ Supports rugged devices from OEMs like Zebra, Honeywell, and Kyocera | ✓ Strong support for rugged and industrial devices commonly used in logistics and field services |
| Deployment Model | ✓ Cloud-based deployment with centralized device management | ✓ Supports cloud and on-premise deployments |
| BYOD Support | ✓ Supports Android Work Profiles, managed apps, and compliance policies | ✓ Supports BYOD management with policy enforcement and application control |
| Automation & Policy Enforcement | ✓ Dynamic device grouping, automated compliance rules, scheduled policies | ✕ Policy enforcement available but automation capabilities are more limited |
| Security & Compliance Controls | ✓ Encryption enforcement, compliance monitoring, device restrictions | ✓ Security policies, remote actions, and device monitoring capabilities |
| Integration Ecosystem | ✓ Integrations with identity providers, ITSM tools, and enterprise services | ✕ Integrations available but often centered around SOTI ecosystem tools |
| Ease of Use / UI | ✓ Modern centralized dashboard designed for simplified administration | ✕ Functional interface designed for operational device management |
| Customer Support | ✓ Multi-channel support and extensive help documentation | ✓ Enterprise support with documentation and support services |
| Apple Device Management | ✓ Granular controls for Apple fleets, including advanced macOS management and Apple Automated Device Enrollment (ADE). | ✕ Basic support; user feedback indicates iOS and macOS management is often an afterthought compared to its Android capabilities. |
| Pricing Transparency | ✓ Clear, tiered per-device pricing (starting at $2.40/device/mo for the Pro plan). | ✕ Quote-based and opaque pricing that can quickly escalate when factoring in premium hubs and consultant fees. |
Want to explore the details behind this comparison? Expand the section below for a comprehensive breakdown of platform support, enrollment capabilities, security architecture, integrations, and pricing.
Platform Support & Device Compatibility
Hexnode UEM
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 modern fleets:
- Mobile OS: Android (5.0+), iOS/iPadOS (11.0+), and Fire OS.
- Desktop OS: Windows 10/11 (v1703+), macOS (10.7+), and Linux (Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian).
- Other Platforms: tvOS (6.0+), Apple visionOS (1.1+), and 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 natively across Android.
- Apple Ecosystem: Supervised and unsupervised iOS/iPadOS devices are supported with features like single/multi-app kiosk and custom configurations. macOS management includes advanced app control, AI-assisted scripting support via Hexnode Genie, and Autonomous Single App Mode.
- Windows Management: Hexnode supports MSI-based silent installations, BitLocker encryption escrow, and kiosk modes for Windows 10/11 devices.
- Linux & ChromeOS: Recent expansions include support for Linux distributions and deep ChromeOS management. This enables managed guest sessions, multi-app kiosk modes, and granular device restrictions on open-source platforms.
- visionOS & tvOS: Hexnode is among the few UEMs to support Apple’s visionOS, enabling management of spatial computing devices. It also supports Apple TVs with enterprise-ready policies for digital signage, including Global HTTP Proxy and certificate-based security.
This broad compatibility makes Hexnode ideal for organizations embracing modern, cloud-first infrastructure with a mix of mobile, desktop, and emerging platforms.
SOTI MobiControl
SOTI MobiControl is engineered for environments where rugged, legacy, and mission-critical devices are prevalent. Its platform support includes:
- Mobile OS: Android, iOS, and legacy Windows Mobile/CE.
- Desktop OS: Windows 10+, macOS, and Linux.
- Other Platforms: ChromeOS, Zebra wireless printers, and RFID readers.
SOTI’s compatibility highlights:
- Android Plus & Enterprise: Supports deep Android management with device agent-based tracking for advanced control. Furthermore, SOTI XTreme Hubs accelerate data and file delivery to remote Android devices by offloading file distribution from the deployment server.
- Apple Devices: iPhones, iPads, and macOS are supported. However, SOTI lacks advanced Apple-specific capabilities like macOS Autonomous Single App Mode or advanced tvOS policy configurations.
- Windows Ecosystem: Extensive support for modern Windows environments and legacy Windows CE/Mobile platforms (such as CE .NET 4.2 or Pocket PC). 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 is available, though its policy configuration remains very limited compared to Hexnode.
- Peripheral Devices: Unique among most UEMs, SOTI supports Zebra wireless printers and other IoT peripherals. This enables centralized control and Printer Administration Server (PAS) configurations for 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
Hexnode UEM
Hexnode offers a wide range of enrollment methods designed to accommodate various enterprise scenarios, from BYOD to COPE and COBO. Its architecture is built for simplicity, AI-driven automation, and deep integration with cloud identity providers.
Supported Enrollment Methods:
- Zero-Touch Provisioning: Seamless, out-of-the-box provisioning via Apple Automated Device Enrollment (ADE), Android Zero-Touch, Samsung Knox Mobile Enrollment (KME), and Windows Autopilot.
- Automated Zero-Touch Migration: Using the Hexnode Gateway, IT administrators can create a custom installer to remotely migrate devices from a legacy MDM to Hexnode in under five minutes, requiring zero user interaction and eliminating manual setup.
- Self-Enrollment: Users can enroll their own devices using credentials from integrated identity providers like Microsoft Entra ID, Google Workspace, and Okta.
- ROM-Based & Bulk Enrollment: Supports flashing Hexnode as a system app for deep control over dedicated Android devices, as well as CSV-based imports for the mass provisioning of fleets.
Device Management Features:
- AI-Assisted Automation: Hexnode Genie AI automates diagnostics, policy execution, and routine IT tasks using natural language commands, drastically reducing L1/L2 support workloads.
- Native Remote Actions: Features built-in remote view and control capabilities across platforms to ensure faster troubleshooting and reduced operational downtime.
- Kiosk & App Management: Offers advanced single and multi-app kiosk lockdown configurations across modern OS platforms, including deep, native restrictions for ChromeOS devices.
SOTI MobiControl
SOTI MobiControl excels in environments where rugged devices, legacy systems, and IoT endpoints are prevalent. Its enrollment and management capabilities are primarily tailored for frontline, high-volume, and mission-critical deployments.
Supported Enrollment Methods:
- SOTI Stage: A barcode-based and NFC enrollment method tailored for Android Plus and Windows Mobile/CE devices, ideal for rapid provisioning in warehouse and logistics use cases.
- Third-Party Integrations: Integrates smoothly with OEM rapid enrollment solutions including Apple DEP, Android Zero-Touch, Samsung KME, Windows Autopilot, and Zebra StageNow for rugged hardware provisioning.
- Agent-Based Enrollment: Relies heavily on the installation of a lightweight SOTI device agent that communicates with the MobiControl server to execute policies and track location.
Device Management Features:
- SOTI XTreme Technology: A proprietary feature that accelerates app and data delivery by up to 10X, optimizing bandwidth for distributed environments like retail stores or remote warehouses.
- IoT & Peripheral Management: Uniquely supports the management of non-traditional IoT endpoints, including Zebra wireless printers and RFID readers.
- Frontline Workflow Focus: While highly effective for primarily Android-focused frontline deployments, SOTI lacks the deep, unified lifecycle governance, advanced macOS controls, and identity-driven access parameters found in modern, cross-platform UEMs.
Comparing Security Posture & Compliance Features
Hexnode UEM
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:
Hexnode offers a powerful compliance engine that supports:
- 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
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 to prevent external threats.
- Windows Defender Firewall Integration: Native support for enforcing firewall rules and settings 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.
Ecosystem & Integration Capabilities
Hexnode UEM
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): Seamless on-premise directory syncing.
- Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD): Integrates natively to enforce conditional access, block access from non-compliant devices, and manage device registration.
- Google Workspace: Syncs users and groups for policy-based device management.
- Okta: Provides Single Sign-On (SSO), Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), 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.
SOTI MobiControl
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: A separate product add-on providing advanced remote monitoring, 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 Models and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
Hexnode UEM
Hexnode offers a transparent, pay-as-you-grow pricing model based strictly on the number of devices managed. Organizations can choose from four subscription tiers, each unlocking increasing feature depth and technician access to suit their specific scaling needs.
Pro – Advanced MDM, Kiosk mode, Apple Business Manager, Samsung Knox, Zero-Touch
Enterprise – Full UEM, Windows/macOS/tvOS support, AD/Entra ID integration, Remote View
Ultimate – Advanced macOS/Windows management, Custom Scripting, FileVault, Remote Control
Ultra – Full feature set, BitLocker, Windows Defender, SCCM integration, Hexnode Access
- Minimum License Requirement: 15 devices for cloud deployments.
- Trial Period: 14-day free trial with full Ultra functionality – no credit card required.
- Support Fees: Included in the subscription; no additional charges for basic maintenance or tech support.
- Billing Options: Monthly or annual (annual billing includes a standard discount).
SOTI MobiControl
SOTI MobiControl has historically relied heavily on perpetual licenses but has completely transitioned to a subscription-based model, with perpetual maintenance reached End of Service effective September 2025. This shift aligns with modern enterprise needs for continuous updates and cloud agility.
- Pricing: All subscription plans are offered via custom quotes based on device volume, service tier, and required add-ons (such as SOTI XSight).
- Subscription Licensing: Pay for the number of devices managed. This includes access to updates, support, and new features under the subscription umbrella.
- Minimum Order Quantity: 10 licenses per subscription tier.
- License Alerts: Administrators can set thresholds for license usage and receive automated notifications from the console.
Analyzing Customer Support & Resources
Hexnode UEM
Hexnode provides free email, phone, and live chat support across all subscription tiers, ensuring that customers receive timely assistance regardless of their plan. Support is available 24×5, with dedicated teams spanning North America, Europe, APAC, and the Middle East.
Support Channels & AI Enhancements:
- Hexnode Genie AI: Hexnode incorporates an AI chatbot to automate L1 and L2 support . This context-aware assistant handles common issues (like password resets and quick fixes) and resolves complex technical inquiries instantly, accelerating IT operations.
- Email & Ticket Support: Available via support@hexnode.com and web-based ticketing forms.
- Phone Support: Toll-free numbers in the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, and direct lines in Switzerland, India, and South Africa.
- Live Chat: Embedded directly in the admin console and website for real-time assistance.
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.
SOTI MobiControl
SOTI offers a tiered support model tightly 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 strictly to premium-tier customers for logging cases, tracking issues, and accessing advanced 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 for the engineering team.
Self-Service Resources:
- SOTI Central: A centralized hub for product documentation, release notes, and technical articles.
- SOTI Pulse: A knowledge base containing how-to guides and configuration walkthroughs.
- Product Support Pages: Detailed help sections for MobiControl setup, licensing, and database troubleshooting.
SOTI MobiControl Alternative: Common Questions
How easy is it to migrate to a SOTI alternative?
Transitioning away from a legacy UEM can seem daunting, but Hexnode makes it frictionless. Using the Hexnode Gateway, IT teams can initiate a remote, zero-touch migration from their existing MDM to Hexnode in under five minutes . This streamlined process involves distributing a custom installer that automates the migration, significantly saving time, eliminating manual setup, and ensuring no downtime or security compromises during the transition.
Is Hexnode a cost-effective SOTI alternative?
Yes. While SOTI relies on quote-based subscription pricing and often requires organizations to hire expensive external consultants just to navigate its complex setup, Hexnode provides a highly transparent, tiered per-device pricing model. This allows SMBs and mid-market enterprises to scale predictably without hidden fees or forced premium upgrades for basic usability.
Can a SOTI alternative still manage rugged and specialized devices?
Absolutely. While Hexnode excels in modern, cross-platform environments, it also fully supports rugged device management. Hexnode partners with leading OEMs like Zebra, Honeywell, Kyocera, and Datalogic, offering robust Android Enterprise capabilities, OEMConfig integrations, and ROM-based enrollment to ensure your mission-critical frontline devices remain secure and operational.
SOTI MobiControl is a staple for industrial environments, but its steep learning curve makes it difficult to scale across modern, mixed-device fleets.
Hexnode emerges as the ideal SOTI alternative, future-proofing your IT operations with comprehensive multi-OS support , AI-driven automation , and a zero-touch migration gateway. With Hexnode, managing your endpoints is secure, agile, and effortless.
The most effective way to understand the operational differences between the two platforms is through hands-on evaluation.
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Start Free TrialDisclaimer: This comparison is based on publicly available information as of March 2026. Features and pricing for Hexnode and SOTI MobiControl 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.
