Linux device management 101

Introduction

Linux is emerging as a top choice for developers and techies alike. Did you know that Linux ranks as the second most popular operating system in India after Windows, holding 14.6% of market share? It’s clear that Linux is driving innovation across various domains—whether it’s powering gaming, productivity, entertainment, or education.

However, the wide range of Linux distributions, each with its unique tools and protocols, can make devices tough to manage, especially when compared to other operating systems.

It’s important for IT admins to understand the basics to overcome these challenges and manage devices effortlessly. Let’s start by exploring why Linux support is crucial in today’s enterprises.

Why Linux support matters in today’s enterprises?

Linux has been around for quite some time, but it is quickly gaining fame across various enterprises, especially in tech startups, educational institutions, and government—thanks to its security, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. For instance, China’s government is making headlines by actively replacing all systems with a Linux-based OS called OpenKylin. This growth is largely due to its open-source nature that captivated countless developers who have contributed their fair share of code to the repository.

Linux serves as the backbone for numerous enterprise applications, including web browsers, media players, office suites, and development tools. Its versatility is clear in its widespread adoption across various devices, from servers and desktops to laptops, smartphones, and even embedded systems. The Linux market is projected to soar from USD 6.27 billion in 2022 to USD 22.15 billion by 2029, making it essential for enterprises to invest in effective Linux device management to stay relevant.

However, managing a mix of operating systems can create headaches for IT departments trying to align their fleet of devices to the same operational standard. This complexity is where Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) solutions like Hexnode enter the picture. By providing a centralized platform for managing devices across multiple operating systems, UEM simplifies administration, strengthens security, and combines control all into one unified system.

Addressing common pain points in Linux device management

Managing Linux devices can be challenging, but the best approach is to identify the pain points and choose a solution that directly addresses them. Let’s take a look at how Hexnode deals with the most frequent issues enterprises face.

Fragmented Linux ecosystem:

One of the biggest challenges with Linux is its highly fragmented ecosystem, where different distributions require different configurations and management methods. This creates a heavy IT workload, with admins needing to juggle manual interventions across various sub-distributions.

Hexnode’s solution: Hexnode provides unified support for popular sub-distributions of Fedora and Debian. This means that instead of needing different tools or processes for each, you can manage them all seamlessly from a single platform with consistent policies and actions.

Complexity of cross-platform management:

Managing devices running diverse OS can lead to inconsistent workflows, with IT teams often relying on multiple tools to get the job done.

Hexnode’s solution: Hexnode’s integrated platform consolidates all major OS management—including Linux—under one roof. By doing so, it streamlines processes and reduces the need for multiple tools making cross-platform management less of a headache.

Insufficient options for advanced configurations:

Organizations often face challenges when their management tools lack the flexibility for advanced configurations, making it difficult to apply specific settings that align with their operational needs.

Hexnode’s solution: Hexnode provides a variety of advanced configuration options for Linux devices. This includes customizing password policies, adjusting Wi-Fi settings, and applying content filters, enabling admins to meet their exact requirements and maintain security.

Limited remote support:

When IT teams can’t remotely troubleshoot devices, it leads to longer downtimes and frustrated users. Linux devices are notorious for being tricky to manage remotely.

Hexnode’s solution: Hexnode addresses this challenge by offering advanced remote actions. Admins can troubleshoot from anywhere, reducing delays and keeping devices up and running with limited downtime.

Limited vendor support for Linux:

Another concern for many organizations is the level of support available for Linux environments. Without strong vendor backing, addressing technical issues can become a hassle.

Hexnode’s solution: Hexnode offers dedicated 24/5 global customer service to assist with any technical challenges that pop up. This ensures your team has the support they need when they need it.

Understanding Fedora and Debian-Based Linux distributions:

Linux offers a variety of versions, known as distributions (or distros), each designed to meet different needs. Similar to Windows 10 or 11, Linux operates through various distros. Two popular ones are Fedora and Debian, each bringing their own unique flavor to the Linux ecosystem.

Debian-Based systems:

Debian, launched in 1993, is known for its reliability and security, making it a solid choice for servers and workstations. As the backbone of popular systems like Ubuntu, it provides a user-friendly experience for both beginners and professionals. Debian-based Linux OSs are well-suited for professional computers and small transactional operations.

Fedora-Based systems:

Fedora, introduced in 2003 and backed by Red Hat, is focused on innovation and is widely used in development and cloud environments. It prioritizes rapid integration of new technologies, offering the latest software and hardware support. Ideal for users looking for cutting-edge features, Fedora is trusted for desktop computing, development, and digital services.

Linux device management capabilities with Hexnode

Hexnode’s Linux support comes packed with features designed to productively manage device fleets of all sizes, allowing admins to operate seamlessly across various Linux environments. Let’s explore some of the primary features of Hexnode’s Linux management.

Enrollment options:

Getting Linux devices enrolled in Hexnode’s UEM portal is straightforward, thanks to several user-friendly options:

• CLI-Based Enrollment: This method allows for quick enrollment using command-line interfaces (CLI) without requiring user authentication. This is ideal for IT teams managing large-scale deployments and it streamlines the process by eliminating unnecessary prerequisites.
• Authenticated Enrollment: For added security, this method requires user credentials to be entered for devices to be enrolled. Credentials can be sent via email or SMS, ensuring a secure onboarding process.
• Self-Enrollment: Empowering users, this option lets individuals enroll their devices independently through pre-assigned passwords shared by the admin. Users don’t need to send any additional requests to admins, simplifying the enrollment process.
• Pre-Approved Enrollment: This method allows admins to import devices into Hexnode before the user completes the enrollment process. It enables grouping devices and assigning policies, configurations, and apps in advance, ensuring a smooth management experience once enrollment is complete. You can also make it mandatory by restricting enrollment to a predefined list of devices for added security.

Key admin actions:

Hexnode goes beyond just enrollment; it offers a range of administrative actions that make managing Linux devices easy:

• OS updates: Admins can remotely deploy OS updates to keep Linux devices secure and current. These updates address vulnerabilities, safeguard against threats, and ensure compliance with the latest security standards, all from a centralized console.
• Custom script execution: Admins can automate tasks and streamline device management by executing custom scripts remotely. This capability enhances scalability and efficiency, allowing IT admins to address issues or deploy changes instantly across multiple devices.
• Password management: Hexnode allows administrators to configure detailed password policies, specifying requirements such as length, complexity, expiration, and more to ensure secure device access.
• Restrictions: Admins can apply restrictions to features such as Wi-Fi, VPN, GPS, and camera settings. These restrictions help maintain compliance by limiting access to specific device features, enhancing security, and preventing unauthorized use.
• Local user accounts: Hexnode allows admins to remotely manage local user accounts on Linux devices. They can create accounts, change passwords, force logouts, and grant or revoke superuser privileges. This simplifies the management of multiple accounts on a single device and supports adherence to company security policies.
• Wipe device: Admins can remotely perform a wipe on Linux devices, clearing all data from the device. This feature is particularly useful when an employee leaves the organization or if a device is lost or stolen, helping protect sensitive data.
• Remote view: Allows admins to connect to a Linux device’s screen remotely, providing real-time visibility into its activities. This helps quickly diagnose issues and monitor device status without the need for physical access.
• Remote control: Allows admins to gain full control over Linux devices, enabling them to troubleshoot and resolve issues directly without requiring on-site access to the device.
• Wi-Fi: Admins can remotely configure and deploy Wi-Fi settings to Linux devices, ensuring devices connect securely to corporate Wi-Fi networks, preventing unauthorized password sharing, and enhancing network security.
• Web content filtering: Hexnode allows admins to remotely configure and enforce web access policies on Linux devices, restricting access to non-work-related websites. This helps increase productivity and reduce security risks.
• Wallpaper: Admins can set and manage wallpapers on Linux devices at scale from a single console, ensuring consistency across all devices and making the whole setup process hassle-free.
• Certificates: Hexnode allows admins to add digital certificates to Linux devices, ensuring secure authentication with organizational networks and services.

Whether you’re deploying new systems or keeping existing ones in check, Hexnode UEM has the tools to help admins streamline tasks and save time. With more features on the way, stay tuned as we continue to enrich our Linux  device management capabilities,

Conclusion

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is Hexnode’s journey to mastering Linux support. With a solid foundation already in place—starring restrictions, configurations, and remote actions—we’re just getting started. There are many more exciting features on the horizon. As Linux continues to rise in popularity, Hexnode stands as your trusted partner, ensuring you’ve made the right choice for your UEM needs. Ready to see it for yourself? Start your 14-day free trial today and see Hexnode in action!