# Add custom attributes to devices and users

The ability to add custom attributes in Hexnode UEM provides organizations with the flexibility to generate and store metadata for **devices, users, device groups**, and **user groups** that go beyond predefined fields. By choosing to add custom attributes, administrators can manage unique data specific to their organizational needs and use these values as dynamic [wildcards](https://www.hexnode.com/mobile-device-management/help/how-to-pass-device-and-user-information-using-the-wildcards-supported-by-hexnode-mdm/) across the portal. These attributes can be centrally created and updated remotely over the air, ensuring consistent and real-time propagation of information across managed entities.

Attribute Creation Methods
--------------------------

Hexnode UEM supports two attribute creation workflows:

### 1. New Attribute (Single Attribute Creation)

This option is used to define an individual custom attribute.

SettingDescription**Attribute Type**Defines the entity the attribute is associated with: **Device, User, Device Group**, or **User Group**. **Attribute Name**A unique identifier for the attribute. Must contain only letters, numbers, and underscores. This field is mandatory.**Description**Optional field used to document the purpose or usage of the attribute. **Default Value**The value assigned automatically until explicitly overridden. Supports wildcard usage. Once saved, the attribute becomes immediately available for the selected entity type.

### 2. Bulk Attributes (CSV-Based Creation)

This option enables administrators to create multiple custom attributes simultaneously.

- Upload a **CSV file** containing attribute definitions
- A sample CSV file is available for reference and format validation
- This method is recommended for large-scale deployments or migrations

Bulk upload reduces manual effort and ensures consistency across attribute definitions.

[![Configure and add custom attributes via Admin tab in Hexnode UEM console.](https://cdn.hexnode.com/mobile-device-management/help/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Add-custom-attributes-via-Admin-tab.png)](https://cdn.hexnode.com/mobile-device-management/help/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Add-custom-attributes-via-Admin-tab.png "Add custom attributes via Admin tab")

Attribute Types and Storage Locations
-------------------------------------

Hexnode organizes custom attributes based on the entity they describe. Use the table below to locate where your data is stored after configuration:

Attribute TypeManagement Path in Hexnode PortalInformation Tab**Device**Manage > DevicesDevice Info**User**Manage > UsersUser Info**Device Group**Manage > Device GroupsDevice Group Info**User Group**Manage > User GroupsUser Group InfoManaging Existing Attributes
----------------------------

You can modify or remove custom data fields directly from the **Admin > Custom Attributes** tab:

- **Edit:** Update the **description**, or **default value** of an attribute.
 Note: 
The **attribute name** cannot be changed after the attribute is created.

 

- **Delete:** Remove a specific attribute from the system.
- **Remove All:** Clear all custom attributes displayed in the current view.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
---------------------------------

1. **What characters are allowed in Custom Attribute names?**Attribute names must only contain alphanumeric characters (letters and numbers) and underscores. Spaces and special symbols are not supported.
2. **How many custom attributes can be created?**Hexnode UEM allows administrators to create up to **50 custom attributes**, which can be used to store and manage additional device-, user-, or group-specific metadata.
3. **How to update attributes for multiple devices at once?**Use the **Bulk Attributes** option under the Add menu. By uploading a CSV file, you can remotely update specific data points for thousands of entities simultaneously over-the-air.