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Hardening the Endpoint: Implementing OS-Native Data Containerization

In a global enterprise environment, the challenge is to secure corporate intelligence without infringing on user privacy. Hexnode addresses this by utilizing OS-native containerization to create a secure, encrypted “fence” around sensitive data.

By automating document distribution through Mobile Content Management (MCM) and enforcing strict Data Loss Prevention (DLP) rules, Hexnode ensures that corporate files are accessible only within managed environments—effectively preventing data leaks across the entire fleet.

Logical Architecture: The Secure Data Plane

Hexnode’s content security model functions as a virtual fenced environment, isolating corporate data from personal user space.

  • The Repository Layer: The Hexnode Content Repository acts as the central Source of Truth. Files are encrypted at rest and associated with dynamic Policies or Device/User Groups.
  • The Delivery Path: Content delivery is coordinated using Platform Notification Services (APNs, FCM, WNS), with secure downloads over HTTPS optimized for global availability.
  • The Sandbox Layer:
    • Apple: Enforces Managed Open-In to prevent document movement to unmanaged apps.
    • Android: Utilizes Android Enterprise (Work Profile) to house corporate data in an encrypted, briefcase-badged work container.
  • The DLP Enforcement Layer: Uses OS-level restrictions to intercept the clipboard, block screen capture, and disable unauthorized sharing (AirDrop, Bluetooth).

The Secure Content Container

Hexnode utilizes platform-native containerization to silo corporate data without infringing on personal privacy.

Apple Managed Open-In (iOS/macOS)

Hexnode governs data flow between applications:

  • Intra-App Isolation: Work documents can only be opened by “Managed” apps.
  • Unmanaged App Blocking: Prevents users from moving work attachments to personal social media or unmanaged cloud storage (e.g., personal iCloud/Dropbox).

Android Enterprise Work Profile

  • Encrypted Container: Corporate files reside inside a secure, encrypted work profile.
  • App Separation: Personal apps cannot “see” or access files within the Work Profile partition.

Managed Content Access

Hexnode enforces secure access to distributed content through managed apps and policy controls:

  • Restricted Actions: Limits actions such as copy/paste, sharing, and file export where supported.
  • Content Removal: Corporate files are removed when a device is disenrolled or a Selective Wipe is triggered due to non-compliance.

Managed Content Distribution at Scale

Hexnode supports automated content lifecycles for large-scale deployments.

  • Policy-Driven Sync: Documents are distributed automatically based on User Groups or Dynamic Device Groups.
  • Version Control: When a document is updated, devices receive the latest approved version and outdated copies are replaced or removed.
  • Selective Wipe: Admins can remove only corporate content while preserving personal apps and data—critical for BYOD environments.

Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Matrix

Constraint Policy Control Implementation Outcome
Clipboard Control Copy/Paste restrictions Prevents data movement between work and personal apps.
Screen Capture Screenshot and recording restrictions Disables screenshots and screen recordings in managed apps.
Managed Domains Web and domain restrictions Forces work documents to stay within corporate-approved URLs.
Sharing Restrictions Managed Open-In / Work Profile controls Disables AirPlay, AirDrop, and Bluetooth sharing for work files.

Content Governance Metrics

Capability Standard MDM Hexnode UEM
File Delivery Manual/App-based Policy-driven auto-sync
Containerization Third-party wrapper OS-native (High Performance)
Wipe Control Full device wipe Selective content wipe
Compliance Manual enforcement Policy-based enforcement

Implementation Checklist

  1. Upload corporate files to the Hexnode Content Repository.
  2. Configure Managed Open-In rules for iOS/macOS devices.
  3. Enroll Android devices in Work Profile mode.
  4. Apply DLP policies for clipboard, sharing, and screen capture restrictions via Device Restrictions.
  5. Assign content using Dynamic Device Groups or User Groups for automated distribution.
Solution Framework