Published July 2026
Most small and medium-sized businesses no longer run a single type of computer. Windows laptops may sit beside Macs, directors use iPhones and iPads, and some teams prefer Chromebooks. This can improve productivity, but only if every device follows a consistent security and support policy.
The goal is not to make every platform identical. It is to apply the same business outcomes—known ownership, secure access, current software, protected data and reliable support—using the right management tools for each operating system.
Begin with one device standard
Create a written standard that applies to company-owned and approved personal devices. It should define which operating systems and versions are supported, how devices are enrolled, who can install software, where business data may be stored, and what happens when a device is lost, replaced or returned.
A useful policy is short enough for staff to understand but specific enough for IT to enforce. Avoid vague statements such as “devices must be secure”. State the controls: automatic updates, disk encryption, multi-factor authentication, screen-lock timing, endpoint protection and approved cloud storage.
Keep a complete inventory
Every device should have an owner, serial number, model, operating system, purchase date, warranty status and management status. Record whether it is company-owned or personal and which business services it can access.
Inventory is the foundation of good support. You cannot patch, replace or recover a device you do not know exists. A managed IT service can maintain this view automatically instead of relying on a spreadsheet that goes out of date.
Use central identity across every platform
Staff should use named business accounts rather than shared passwords or local-only logins. A central identity platform gives the organisation one place to add users, enforce multi-factor authentication, remove access and review suspicious sign-ins.
Apply conditional access where appropriate. For example, sensitive applications may require a managed, compliant device and a stronger sign-in method. This protects business data without banning Macs, iPads or Chromebooks simply because they are different.
Enrol devices before they reach the user
Modern device management can configure equipment during setup. Windows devices can be enrolled into a management platform; Apple devices can use Apple Business Manager with mobile-device management; Chromebooks can be enrolled into Google Admin; and iPhones or iPads can receive managed settings, applications and restrictions.
Pre-enrolment reduces manual work and gives every new starter a repeatable experience. It also ensures encryption, security settings and required applications are present before business data is accessed.
Patch operating systems and applications
Automatic operating-system updates are essential, but browsers, productivity tools, PDF readers and specialist applications need attention too. Define an update window, monitor failures and keep an exception process for software that requires testing.
Do not assume an Apple or Chromebook device is automatically secure. Every platform receives security fixes, and every platform can become exposed when it is left behind.
Protect data, not just hardware
Keep business documents in approved cloud services or managed file systems, not only on the local desktop. Use encryption on laptops and mobile devices, restrict unapproved sharing, and make sure important data is backed up independently of synchronisation.
For personal devices, separate business data from private data as far as the platform allows. Selective wipe can then remove company accounts and information without erasing the user’s photographs and personal applications.
Apply a practical security baseline
- Multi-factor authentication for business accounts.
- Encryption enabled and recovery keys stored securely.
- Supported operating-system and browser versions.
- Endpoint protection appropriate to each platform.
- No routine local administrator access for standard users.
- Automatic screen locks and strong device passcodes.
- Remote lock or wipe for lost company devices.
- Approved Wi-Fi, VPN and remote-access configurations.
Design onboarding and offboarding together
A device policy is tested when someone joins, changes role or leaves. Use a checklist to create accounts, assign licences, enrol equipment and grant only the access needed. At departure, disable sign-in promptly, recover company devices, remove managed data from personal equipment and preserve required business records.
Support users consistently
People should have one route to request help regardless of device. Support teams need remote-assistance tools, documentation and escalation paths covering Windows, macOS, iOS, iPadOS and ChromeOS. Procurement should also be coordinated so new hardware is compatible, supportable and covered by an appropriate warranty.
One policy, several technical controls
A mixed-device workplace is manageable when policy starts with business outcomes and the technical controls are adapted to each platform. The result is more choice for staff without losing visibility, security or accountability.
MSP247 supports complete environments across Windows, Mac, iPhone, iPad, Chromebook, servers, networks and cloud services. Talk to us about a mixed-device management review.