What is DEP?

The Device Enrollment  Program (DEP) is part of the Apple Deployment Programs (ADP), which help businesses easily deploy and configure iOS and macOS devices. DEP provides a fast, streamlined way to deploy organization-owned iPad and iPhone devices and Mac computers that are purchased directly from Apple or participating Apple Authorized Resellers or carriers. This guide will give you an overview of program features, explain how to enroll.

Program Features :

DEP simplifies initial setup by automating mobile device management (MDM) enrollment and supervision of devices during setup, which enables you to configure the devices without touching them. To further simplify the process, you can skip certain Setup Assistant screens so users can start using their devices right out of the box.

Mandatory and lockable MDM enrollment : 

Your iOS devices can be preconfigured to require automatic enrollment into MDM. Automatic enrollment ensures that devices are configured based on your organization’s requirements, and guarantees that all users receive those configurations on their devices. You can also lock users’ devices in MDM for ongoing management.

Wireless supervision:

provides a higher level of device management for organizationally-owned iOS devices. It allows additional restrictions, such as turning off iMessage, AirDrop, or Game Center, and it provides additional device configurations and features, such as web content filtering and Single App Mode. With DEP, you can wirelessly enable supervision mode on a device as part of the setup process.

Zero-touch configuration for IT :

With DEP, large-scale deployments of iPad, iPhone, and Mac are seamless. Once users activate their devices, you can immediately configure account settings, apps, and access to IT services over the air. You don’t need to use staging services or physically access each device to complete the setup.

Streamlined Setup Assistant :

DEP also makes it easier for users to set up their own iOS devices and Mac computers. Using an MDM solution to configure your devices, users are guided through the activation process with the built-in Setup Assistant. You can streamline the Setup Assistant even further by specifying that certain screens be skipped.

How works DEP?

 In just a few simple steps, you can get started streamlining Mac and iOS deployments using the Device Enrollment Program.

1. Enroll

Create an account by providing basic information about your business including a D‑U‑N‑S number. You’ll also be asked to create a dedicated Apple ID for administering the program.

2. Set Up

Create administrative accounts to manage device enrollments across your business. You can create administrators for the entire company or by department.

3. Configure

Link your account to multiple MDM servers and assign devices by serial number or by order number. And choose to automatically assign all future orders to a default MDM server you designate.

4. Assign

Assign user profiles through your MDM solution. As the user completes Setup Assistant, the device will be automatically enrolled in MDM and configured with the proper settings.