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Getting Started with Android Enterprise Program
Overview: The Modern Android Management Framework
Android Enterprise (AE) is Google’s native framework for managing Android devices in the workplace. It replaces the legacy “Device Administrator” mode with a more secure, flexible, and privacy-conscious architecture. By integrating AE with Hexnode UEM, organizations can secure corporate data while providing a seamless user experience.
Core Strategic Benefits
- Standardized Security: Consistent management across different hardware manufacturers (Samsung, Pixel, OnePlus, etc.).
- Data Containerization: Strict separation between personal and work data through the “Work Profile.”
- Managed Google Play: Silent deployment of apps without requiring personal Google Accounts.
- Zero-Touch Enrollment: Automated, out-of-the-box provisioning for large fleets.
Supported Versions
To successfully get started with Android Enterprise program, ensure your hardware meets these minimum requirements:
- General Android Devices: Version 5.0 and above.
- Samsung Knox Devices: Version 6.0 and above.
Understanding Management Modes
Android Enterprise offers two distinct operational modes. Choosing the right one is critical before you begin.
| Feature | Device Owner Mode | Profile Owner Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Target Device | Corporate-Owned | Personal (BYOD) |
| Control Level | Full Device Control | Limited to Work Profile |
| Data Privacy | Admin manages all data | Admin cannot see personal data |
| Key Feature | Kiosk Mode & Silent Install | Containerization (Work vs. Personal) |
The Containerization Concept
For devices enrolled as Profile Owner, Android Enterprise creates a “Work Profile.”
- Visual Distinction: Work apps are marked with a “briefcase” badge icon.
- Data Separation: Creates an encrypted container for work data.
- Privacy: Admins cannot interact with, view, or wipe personal apps, photos, or data outside the work container.
Steps to Get Started with Android Enterprise Program
Follow these steps to register your organization and devices.
Step 1: Enroll your Organization
Choice of Integration Mode
Before touching the devices, you must link your organization to Google.
- Google Workspace (G Suite): Ideal for organizations already using Google for their identity provider (IdP). This requires domain verification.
- Managed Google Play Accounts (Gmail-based): Ideal for organizations using Microsoft 365 or other IdPs. No domain verification is required; you simply link a standard Gmail account to act as the “Enterprise Admin.”
Step 2: Enroll the Devices
Once the organization is linked, enroll the specific devices based on ownership:
As Device Owner: Enroll fresh/factory-reset devices. Use methods like QR Code enrollment, Zero Touch, or NFC.
As Profile Owner: Send an enrollment request to an existing device. The user accepts, and the Work Profile is created.
Note: You can also utilize Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) to facilitate enrollment for both modes.
App Management and Distribution
Android Enterprise significantly streamlines how applications are deployed and controlled.
Silent App Distribution
You can push apps without user interaction (no prompts).
- Managed Google Apps: Approve and add to inventory -> Distribute -> Installs silently.
- Store Apps: Automatically converted to Managed Google Apps for silent deployment.
- Enterprise Apps (APK): Installs silently on Device Owner modes (requires the latest Hexnode for Work agent).
Configuration and Permissions
- Pre-configurations: Define app settings (like server URLs) before installation.
- Permissions: Pre-approve or deny runtime permissions (e.g., Camera, Location) so the user isn’t prompted.
- Blocklist/Allowlist: Restrict device usage to a specific set of approved applications.
Advanced Customization
- Kiosk Mode: Lock Device Owner devices to a single app or specific set of apps.
- Custom Play Store: Design a “Play for Work” store layout that displays only the apps approved by your organization.
Troubleshooting Android Enterprise Issues
Common hurdles when you get started with Android Enterprise program and how to fix them.
Issue 1: “Can’t create Work Profile” error.
Cause: The device may already have a work profile, or the device manufacturer does not support it.
Solution: Check Settings > Accounts to see if a work profile exists. If not, verify the device is Android 5.0+ and GMS (Google Mobile Services) certified.
Issue 2: Briefcase icons are missing.
Cause: The device was enrolled as a “Device Owner” instead of “Profile Owner,” or the launcher doesn’t support badging.
Solution: “Device Owner” manages the whole device, so badges are sometimes not shown (as the whole device is work). Re-enroll as Profile Owner if separation is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does Android Enterprise require a Google account on every device?
No. When using Hexnode with Managed Google Play Accounts, the system automatically creates “hidden” enterprise accounts for each user, allowing for silent app deployment without individual user sign-ins.
Can I migrate from legacy “Device Admin” to Android Enterprise?
Yes. However, moving to Full Managed mode requires a factory reset to establish the secure hardware-level management. Moving to Work Profile can often be done without a wipe.
What is the difference between AE and Samsung Knox?
Android Enterprise is the universal standard from Google. Samsung Knox is a proprietary layer on top of AE that provides even deeper hardware control (e.g., disabling the power button). Hexnode supports both simultaneously.
Does Android Enterprise cost extra money?
The Android Enterprise framework itself is free provided by Google. However, you need an MDM/UEM provider (like Hexnode) to access the management features, which incurs a subscription cost.
