Mobile computing can boost operational performance and increase the competitiveness of manufacturers, warehousing, and logistics companies alike. However, in the past, there have been some concerns as to the security of the operating systems used by many mobile devices—Android in particular.

While it has been good to consumers, many businesses have viewed the Android OS as a risk. This is primarily because, unlike Apple, Android is open source. While open source code makes it easy for developers to inspect, modify, or enhance Android software, this feature also makes it accessible to hackers.

Yet, despite these perceived vulnerabilities, market share for devices running on an Android platform is increasing. In fact, “Android went from 5% of the rugged device market in 2015 to 30% of the market in the fourth quarter of 2016.”^[1]

What’s driving Android’s enterprise popularity?

The answer to the steady increase in the use of Android OS for enterprise mobile devices lies in a combination of improved security, ease of use, and flexibility.

Improved OS security—Android’s past operating systems supported its consumer base, but weren’t secure enough for most businesses. However, it’s latest OS, Nougat, includes remote wipe abilities, more encryption, application whitelisting/blacklisting, and other security must-haves for businesses.

Easy user adoption—One of the top reasons Android is becoming popular with businesses is because of its popularity on the consumer front. Android has over half of the consumer mobile market share. As a result, it is familiar to most users in and out of the workplace. This familiarity means less time spent training employees and higher productivity.

Flexibility for businesses—Android’s open source code and robust/secure APIs make the OS a ready partner for developing enterprise-specific applications for tasks like shipment tracking, order picking, or compliance labeling. Plus, there’s an enormous pool of development talent, making it easy to find the right developer to create tools for businesses.

What can organizations do to further reduce their mobile security risk?

While Android continues to improve the security of its OS, companies can do their part as well. Here are a handful of security must-haves every manufacturing, logistics, and warehousing organization should abide by:

1. Pin enforcement (strong passwords)
2. Selective wipe (essential for a bring your own device program)
3. Jailbreak/root detection
4. Data encryption
5. Virtual private networks (VPN)
6. Data leak protection (preventing authorized users from carelessly or maliciously leaking data)
7. ActiveSync device restriction

For more information read Zebra’s whitepaper:  Establishing a Robust Mobile Security Policy: The key risks and how enterprises can avoid them

So, is the Android OS secure enough for enterprise? Absolutely.

With its stronger OS and familiar user interface, Android has what it takes to be your business’ next mobile device.  But, as technology quickly evolves, no one can “set and forget” their mobile security. Regardless of what operating system their devices are running, organizations of all sizes should ensure their mobile strategy includes strong security tactics and that mobile security is a regular topic of conversation at the executive level.

The SMS Group can help you find the perfect mobile technology strategy for your organization, and can guide you through the process of purchase and installation. Our team even develops custom applications. Contact us to learn more about successes we’ve seen and how to take steps toward greater operating efficiencies in your environment.

[1] https://www.logisticsmgmt.com/article/androids_growth_in_the_warehouse