As we step into 2024 with high hopes, Hexnode UEM is here to delight its customers once again. The spotlight is on the latest webinar series, “What’s New with Hexnode,” offering a comprehensive dive into all the exciting features and updates rolled out in the past quarter.
If you have missed the recent Q4 2023 session, no worries! We’ve got you covered with all the essential details from the webinar. Stay tuned for a feature-packed ride till the end! 😉
Q4 2023 Feature Rollout
In the last quarter of 2023, Hexnode UEM rolled out eight key features and updates aimed at making user and admin experiences smoother while addressing common challenges. From Hexnode Access to some powerful integrations, there’s a lot to explore and discover in this webinar. So, without any delay, let’s check out the main highlights of these features!
For those who couldn’t join us in real-time, you can catch up on all the insightful discussions, feature unveilings, and more by watching the recorded webinar. Click here to access the full recording!
1. Hexnode Access for Windows
Hexnode Access simplifies the login process by enabling users to configure cloud authentication settings for their accounts. This means users can set up local accounts on Windows devices using their cloud identity provider credentials, saving them from manual setup hassles. Currently, Hexnode Access integrates with Microsoft Entra ID and Google Workspace, and soon, it will be compatible with Okta and OneLogin too.
2. Revamped scripting policy for Mac
Revamped scripting policy for Mac facilitate automated configuration updates for administrators across a large number of devices simultaneously. The login and startup scripts ensure an efficient user experience by configuring settings, deploying updates, launching specific applications, and enforcing security policies during login. Furthermore, logoff and shutdown scripts help in initiating data backup processes and performing cleanup tasks, promoting data integrity and optimizing storage space.
3. Windows patch management
Windows patch management offers IT admins granular control over the patching process. This means they can precisely manage update versions and types, providing a tailored approach to keeping systems up to date and secure. This feature works with both Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) and Windows Updates for Business (WUFB). The main use cases of this feature include:
- Granular control
- Scheduled restarts
- Improved workflows
- Flexible scanning and
- Efficient patch selection
4. Windows Autopilot
Windows Autopilot feature simplifies the setup of new Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices. IT administrators can easily enroll devices by registering on Hexnode through Microsoft Entra ID or the Microsoft Business Store. Admins can then effortlessly apply configurations and policies, ensuring a quick, secure, and personalized out-of-the-box experience for the devices. This feature is useful for simplified bulk device enrollment and seamless policy deployment.
5. BitLocker feature update
Through the BitLocker feature update, users can escrow their personal recovery code and enforce BitLocker encryption remotely. This enhances data recovery management for administrators by creating a robust backup of keys, strengthening the overall security framework for data protection. It ensures a reliable and efficient process for recovering crucial data.
6. Windows screensaver
Windows screensaver brings personalized customization to Windows devices. Users can choose from 3D text options and customize font styles, sizes, and colors. In this, IT admins also have control, allowing them to add custom screensaver files, including .scr files with unique features. Admins can also configure screensavers to activate after a defined period of inactivity, enforce password protection for screen unlock, and restrict users from altering screensaver settings on the device.
This feature offers organizations a chance to strengthen their brand identity by enabling employees to set corporate-themed screensavers. This allows for a consistent and branded visual experience across devices. It also helps to transform idle screens into informative displays, adding both functionality and a polished aesthetic to professional settings.
7. Vanta integration
Vanta integration with Hexnode UEM streamlines and centralizes compliance and security workflows, catering to organizations of all sizes. With this integration, Vanta collects info about devices in Hexnode and then checks compliance and identifies potential risks using the data. This allows IT admins to quickly address issues and offers streamlined solutions for audit processes.
8. Checkpoint integration
Hexnode integration with Check Point Harmony Mobile ensures robust security for employees’ mobile devices, defending against various threats across apps, files, networks, and posture management.
This integration enhances Hexnode’s mobile security management, making it easier to proactively address issues like device quarantine or policy enforcement. This ensures that devices pose no security risk to the organization’s resources and corporate assets.
How long does it take to implement Hexnode – A 3 step evaluation
Feature roadmap
An exclusive preview of what lies ahead in Hexnode’s roadmap was also presented during the webinar. Here are the key takeaways:
-
Script Scheduling for Mac:
Script Scheduling will empower IT admins to create scripts and schedule their execution at designated times, eliminating the need for manual intervention.
-
Android Enterprise (WPCO) Work Profile for Corporate Owned Devices:
WPCO will create distinct work and personal containers and extend endpoint management to your organization’s COPE device environment.
-
VPN Configurations for Non-Knox Android Devices:
Hexnode UEM will extend VPN capabilities to all enrolled Android devices and will elevate the organization’s security posture beyond Knox-supported devices.
-
User Enrollment for Mac:
User enrollment will soon be supported on Mac. This will carve out a secure workspace for corporate data without impacting personal information on employees’ macOS devices.
-
Set Limits for Location History Retention:
IT admins will be able to set limits for Location History retention in Hexnode. This will help them to stay compliant with the organization’s data privacy regulations and manage location history on their own terms.
FAQs
Q: Do the patches and controlled updates apply solely to Windows, or can admins also manage/force updates on Android OS mobile devices?
A: Currently, the Patch Management option is specifically available for Windows devices. However, for Android devices, we do provide the ability to schedule OS updates, particularly for Android Enterprise Device Owners.
Q: Is it necessary for the devices to be linked with Azure AD to use the Windows Autopilot enrollment method?
A: Unfortunately, Autopilot has Azure functionality, and it will not work if you don’t have Azure AD.
Q: Do we need to choose a policy for Windows Autopilot? Would the targeted policies still deploy after the user logs in?
A: It is not mandatory to apply default policies while configuring Autopilot. The policies you target via groups or direct assignments will continue to work as before.
Until we meet again!
There you have it, folks! These updates are not just features; they’re your backstage pass to a smoother, more secure Hexnode experience. So, stay tuned, stay connected, and keep rocking the Hexnode way! So, until we meet again with yet another list of features and updates, Bye-byeee!
14 days of free Hexnode!
Looking for a UEM solution that fits your needs and budgets? Check out Hexnode!
Join the tribe
Share your thoughts