Meraki MDM, Apple Configurator & Apple ID Passwords

Currently I am using Apple Configurator to manage my school's iPads. Pusing profiles, settings, and of coarse apps (both free and purchased? VPP codes).


Ok have been trying to figure out a way to use an MDM solution to manage everything so I don't have to physically plug them into the dock of the computer that is using Apple Configurator.


I found Meraki MDM, signed up for the free account, took care of all the push certificate stuff, and even installed the Meraki Management Profile through Apple Configurator on some test devices.


Through Meraki's control panel, pushed out a free app to the devices.


Here is my problem and question: Is there any way I can use an MDM solution WITHOUT having to use an Apple ID and Password to install a pushed update? If it can be through Meraki, that would be awesome since it is free. I am just weary of either:

A- Having individuals (teachers or students) using their personal Apple ID & Password. I don't want their stuff being associated with a school device.

B- Passing out the generic School Apple ID & password.


I know I can make a free Apple ID using a bogus e-mail address, but I think worst case scenario with this stuff- I don't want a student to have access to this account and password and start messing with it or even give them the ability to change the password. I know that 99% of students won't care, but there is always that 1%.


Anywho, if anyone can let me know if this is even possible or prived some links to specific show me how it can be set up using either Meraki or Apple Configurator. Or if there is another way to do this using another product, please let me know. The key here is not having to having to use an Apple ID & Password to push out Mobile updates via the MDM.


Thanks! 😀

iPad 2, iOS 6.1.4, Apple Configurator

Posted on Aug 27, 2013 10:58 AM

Reply
1 reply

Aug 27, 2013 1:22 PM in response to Mr_Shul

Hi Mr_Shul,


Your question addresses a feature that many of us want Apple to support...the ability to wirelessly distribute apps to school owned devices without requiring end user authentication. However, the process you are asking for is currently unsupported by Apple and most MDM providers. The only supported way Apple currently has to distribute VPP codes tied to one Apple ID is through Supervised devices in Apple Configurator. That being said, there are some unsupported workarounds that can "technically" make this possible depending on the MDM provider you have (Meraki is not one of them). Unfortunately I can't discuss that here. Check with other MDM providers to see if they can point you in the right direction. You may find a solution that will work for you.


Hope this helps. Good luck!

~Joe

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Meraki MDM, Apple Configurator & Apple ID Passwords

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