Alie
Ashryver

HexCon24 highlights: Catch up on all that you missed!

Alie Ashryver

Oct 2, 2024

8 min read

HexCon24 kicked off in style with an impressive lineup of experts and thought leaders. The two-day event promised networking, learning, and inspiration—and that’s exactly what it delivered. Attendees enjoyed interactive demos, in-depth breakout sessions, networking opportunities with industry leaders and peers, and engaging discussions on the future of unified endpoint management.

Our inside sources confirm that the opening keynote was truly an inspirational address. In case you missed it, we have an entire blog dedicated to it right here. Now, let’s not waste any more time and jump right into the highlights from HexCon24.

Unlocking the future of UEM

This session with Andrew Hewitt, Principal Analyst at Forrester, was packed with valuable insights into the latest UEM trends and innovations. It explored the evolution of UEM, its key components and benefits, along with the top priorities and challenges organizations face today.

At the end of the session, participants were better equipped to elevate their organization’s IT framework and security measures.

Embracing Apple and Android in the enterprise

Phil Hochmuth, Program Vice President for endpoint device management and enterprise mobility at IDC, took to the stage and steered the audience’s attention toward the growing adoption of mobile devices in enterprises. The session hooked the attendees as Phil effortlessly transitioned between the different mobile device adoption trends and use cases. Throughout the fifty-minute session, Phil addressed the different security perceptions around iOS and Android, two of the most popular OS powering mobile devices. He also lent a few tips and tricks on managing Android and iOS devices deployed in a corporate setup. Towards the end of the session, Phil briefed the audience on the nuances of the Android Enterprise and Samsung Knox frameworks.

Hochmuth tied up the session by emphasizing the importance of deploying UEMs in enterprises to securely manage multi-OS environments.

Hexnode’s latest device management features: What’s new and what’s next

Mark Martin, Senior Solutions Engineer at Hexnode, took the stage to guide attendees through the latest features and enhancements in Hexnode’s unified endpoint management (UEM). The session delved into the newest feature releases, empowering participants to harness these innovative tools for improved device management and heightened security. This session highlighted the latest key features such as:

  • Automated deployments: Experience deployment automation tailored to your needs with features like:
    • Bulk actions: Choose from a variety of actions and execute them sequentially on command.
    • Schedule and triggers: Execute deployments, on a specific schedule, or in response to triggers such as device enrollment.
    • Dynamic filtering: Target specific devices groups at the time of execution for precision.
    • Specialized patching: Automate OS and app patching with templates designed for efficiency.
    • Centralized reports: Access all action reports in a single, user-friendly pane.
  • Hexnode Genie – AI based script generation and chatbot:
    • Get queries resolved 24/7 instantly with Hexnode’s AI-powered conversational chatbot.
    • Effortlessly generate scripts using Hexnode’s AI-powered script generator.
  • Hexnode gateway for Windows:
    • Facilitate the migration of Windows devices from other MDM solutions to Hexnode UEM using the Hexnode Gateway app.
  • Hexnode access for Macs:
    • Device logins using IdPs –Okta for Mac access

Along with a few other features such as Vision OS management and Enrollment profiles for AE devices to make device management a breeze.

Maximizing success with Hexnode MSP

Kevin James Taylor (Manager of Channel Sales, Hexnode) and Vladymir Francis (Technical Implementation Engineer, Hexnode) highlighted how to leverage Hexnode’s upcoming Managed Service Provider (MSP) portal to improve service delivery and client satisfaction. They explained how this new portal provides essential tools for success in the competitive MSP landscape.

The sessions major takeaways are:

  • Brand-new MSP portal: Hexnode is launching an all-new MSP Portal at msp.hexnode.com, tailored specifically for MSP needs.
  • Single sign-on: Log in once using your preferred Identity Provider—Microsoft, Google, or Okta—to access all authorized UEM instances without multiple passwords.
  • Enhanced security features: The portal includes modern security measures like two-factor authentication (via SMS or authenticator apps) and inactivity timeout for improved account security.
  • User management: Administrators can manage users and technicians by assigning specific roles, ensuring access to only the information needed.
  • Centralized dashboard: The portal features a dashboard that aggregates data from all accessible UEM portals, streamlining information access.
  • Payment management: Users can manage payments for UEM instances directly within the portal, with a designated role for Billing Manager for specific payment access.
  • Partner benefits: Alongside advanced UEM capabilities, partners enjoy exclusive access to various benefits.

The speakers commanded the stage to deliver an impactful how-to session on optimizing service offerings and strengthening client relationships through Hexnode’s innovative MSP portal and partnership opportunities.

The event also featured engaging panel discussions with industry leaders, including Jay McBain, Chief Analyst at Canalys, and Paul Hettesheimer, VP of Sales at Hexnode, where they explored the latest tech trends, and the challenges businesses are navigating today.

Fireside chat: Hexnode’s vision and future direction

The fireside chats were another highlight, featuring inspiring conversations with Apu Pavithran, Founder and CEO of Hexnode, and Rachana Vijayan, CMO and Director of Sales, Marketing and Channel Partnerships at Hexnode. In this exclusive discussion, we explored our strategic vision, upcoming product roadmaps and potential collaboration opportunities. Attendees engaged with key decision-makers as they shared their journeys, challenges, and successes—truly inspiring moments for all!

Hexnode in action: Real-world IT success stories

The attendees at HexCon24 got the first-hand account of how Hexnode was able to help fix the device management issues for one of its customers.

The I SEC Group, a global leader in airport security services, operates across 16 international airports with over 5000 employees. Their comprehensive offerings include checkpoint and cargo security, canine units, and interview security, alongside advanced security training. Headquartered in Amsterdam, I SEC has established itself as a trusted partner for airports worldwide.

Daniel Gabriner, Managing Director at I SEC Tech B.V., took to the HexCon24 stage to share I SEC’s Hexnode experience. He explained how I SEC faced several challenges in managing and securing its vast network of devices across multiple international airports. These challenges included device proliferation, security threats, compliance with stringent regulations, and operational inefficiencies. Gabriner explained how Hexnode helped resolve these issues by centralizing device management, enhancing security, streamlining deployments, improving operational efficiency, and ensuring compliance. He wrapped up the session by stating that Hexnode’s capabilities enabled I SEC to effectively manage and secure its devices while meeting the stringent security requirements of the aviation industry.

Modern patch management for future-ready workplaces

Neeraj O R (Manager – Product Management, Research & SEM, Hexnode) and Saikrishnan R (Manager – Pre-Sales and Implementation, Hexnode) provided an insightful overview of the dynamic field of patch management and its critical role in maintaining system security and performance. They explored the key challenges organizations face when they neglect regular patching, such as security vulnerabilities, data loss, and operational disruptions.

The session highlighted Hexnode’s automated patch management as a key tool to address these challenges. By automating patch deployment, Hexnode helps organizations close security gaps, maintain compliance, and enhance operational efficiency, freeing up IT teams from manual tasks thereby, improving efficiency and stability. A major focus of the session was Windows Patch Management, where Hexnode offers administrators the ability to:

  • Customize update preferences for Windows devices.
  • Configure Windows Update for Business (WUfB) to manage OS versions and avoid compatibility issues.
  • Utilize Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) for centralized control of updates.

Additionally, the session covered Hexnode’s patch management capabilities for apps and macOS devices, ensuring that organizations can maintain security across all platforms. The session concluded by underscoring how modern patch management, powered by automation, is essential for creating secure and future-ready workplaces.

Hexnode UEM: Market positioning

Ajith R (Manager – Content, Brand Strategy, and Legal, Hexnode) emphasized the growing necessity of UEM as remote and hybrid work environments become more common, along cybersecurity threats rise. With the UEM market projected to reach $145.62 billion by 2032, Hexnode has positioned itself as a leader by offering an all-in-one solution for managing a wide range of devices through a single platform.

He outlined the key factors behind Hexnode’s strategic growth being:

  • Product-first approach that ensures ease of use and customer satisfaction.
  • Rapid onboarding, which boosts trial-to-sale conversions.
  • Cost-effectiveness compared to competitors like Intune and JAMF.
  • A focus on organic growth through simplicity and powerful features.
Mastering Hexnode: Training, certification, and exclusive one-on-ones

During the event, partners enhanced their expertise through Hexnode Sales Training, learning strategies to effectively position Hexnode solutions. To further validate their skills, attendees could participate in the Hexnode Certification program, adding official recognition to their profiles.

HexCon 2024 also offered attendees the opportunity to explore tailored solutions, connect with Hexnode experts, and learn about the latest innovations. One-on-one meetings and the Hexnode showcase provided a platform for in-depth discussions and personalized advice, empowering attendees to drive success within their organizations.

Until we meet again!

As the curtains fell on HexCon 24, we were left buzzing with excitement and inspiration. Apu Pavithran’s closing keynote at HexCon 24 served as a powerful culmination to the event, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of excitement and anticipation for the future of Hexnode. In his address, Apu reaffirmed that Hexnode’s mission is simple—make IT effortless and give you back your time by automating the mundane.

And with that, we’ve reached the end of our HexCon24 highlights recap. Until we meet again with more news and details, stay tuned!

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Alie Ashryver

Product Evangelist @ Hexnode. Gimme a pen and paper and I'll clear up the cloud of thoughts in ma head...

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