All About Kandji

Kandji’s effective management of Apple devices is crucial for maintaining security, compliance, and productivity while reducing operational costs and downtime. This is where Kandji, a dedicated platform for Apple device management and security, makes a significant impact. With a robust platform designed to empower IT teams, Kandji not only simplifies the deployment and management of macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and tvOS devices but also ensures compliance with industry standards.

In this article, we’ll explore Kandji’s unique offerings, and how it stands out in a competitive market, providing valuable insights for businesses looking to optimize their Apple ecosystem. Whether you’re an IT professional or a decision-maker seeking innovative solutions, Kandji’s approach to device management promises to elevate your organization’s operational efficiency.

The Founding of Kandji: Revolutionizing Apple Device Management

Kandji, the innovative Device Harmony platform for Apple devices in the enterprise, was co-founded in 2018 by Adam Pettit (CEO), his brother Wesley Pettit (Chief Product Officer), and Mark Daughters (SVP of Workplace) in San Diego, California. The trio's vision was to create a comprehensive solution that addresses the complexities of managing Apple devices while enhancing collaboration between IT and InfoSec teams.

Origin Story

Before establishing Kandji, the founders operated an IT consultancy focused on deploying Apple technologies in enterprise settings. Adam Pettit, a former co-founder of Interlaced—an Apple-focused managed services provider—recognized significant gaps in the existing Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions during their consultancy work. They discovered that existing products were either too limited or overly complex, failing to meet the needs of scaling businesses facing mounting regulatory demands. This insight highlighted the necessity for a powerful yet streamlined platform designed for modern enterprises.

Vision and Mission

Kandji's vision centers on reinventing Apple device lifecycle management for the modern enterprise. The mission is to empower IT administrators by automating repetitive tasks and simplifying the management process, thereby enhancing the overall experience for both IT professionals and Apple users. This commitment to innovation is reflected in features like the industry’s first one-click compliance functionality, which enables organizations to meet regulatory standards effortlessly.

The Kandji Solution

Kandji’s platform offers a centralized solution that simplifies device setup, enforces security protocols, and enables remote management without the need for physical access to devices. This automation not only enhances security but also alleviates the workload on IT administrators, allowing them to focus on more strategic initiatives. The company's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has attracted significant attention and a diverse customer base, including notable names like Allbirds, Canva, and Notion.

Key Events and Milestones

• 2018: Kandji is founded in San Diego by Adam Pettit, Wesley Pettit, and Mark Daughters, driven by the goal of transforming Apple device management in the enterprise.
• 2019: The company closes a $21 million Series A funding round and begins to gain traction, growing its team and refining its product offerings.
• 2020: Following a successful first year, Kandji closes a $100 million Series B funding round, allowing it to triple its headcount and expand into international markets with the opening of a London office.
• 2022: Kandji is recognized on Forbes’ Next Billion-Dollar Startup List after reporting over $19 million in Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR). The company introduces several major product innovations, including Prism, Home Screen Layout, and Assignment Maps.
• 2024: Kandji continues to grow rapidly, boasting more than 250 employees across its offices in San Diego, San Francisco, and London. The company attracts attention from prominent investors, including General Catalyst, Greycroft, B Capital, Okta Ventures, and Tiger Global, which underscores its position as a rising leader in the MDM space.

Evolution of Kandji’s Product Suite

Kandji’s product suite for Apple device management has undergone significant evolution, aligning closely with advancements in general network technologies. This evolution reflects the changing landscape of IT environments, the increasing complexity of device management, and the growing emphasis on security and automation. Here’s a detailed look at how Kandji’s offerings have adapted over time.

1. Integration of Cloud Computing: The rise of cloud computing has fundamentally changed how organizations manage their IT resources. Kandji harnesses cloud technology to deliver its MDM solutions, allowing for seamless access and management of Apple devices across distributed environments. This cloud-first approach enables:

• Scalability: Organizations can easily scale their device management efforts without the constraints of on-premises infrastructure, accommodating a growing number of devices and users.
• Remote Management: As remote work became prevalent, Kandji’s cloud-based platform allows IT teams to manage devices from anywhere, ensuring that security policies and updates can be enforced regardless of user location.

2. Automation and Efficiency: With the increasing volume of devices and data in enterprise environments, the demand for automation has surged. Kandji’s product suite has evolved to incorporate advanced automation features that streamline repetitive tasks, reduce manual workloads, and enhance operational efficiency. Key developments include:

• Automated App and OS Updates: This functionality ensures that devices remain secure and up to date without requiring IT intervention. Automated updates help organizations maintain compliance and reduce the risk of vulnerabilities.
• Zero-Touch Deployment: Leveraging advancements in provisioning technologies, Kandji allows new devices to be configured automatically, minimizing setup time and improving user experience right from the start.

3. Enhanced Security Features: As cybersecurity threats have become more sophisticated and prevalent, Kandji has adapted its product offerings to prioritize security. This includes:

• Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR): Recognizing the specific security challenges faced by Mac systems, Kandji developed a dedicated EDR solution designed exclusively for the Apple ecosystem. This tool integrates advanced threat detection capabilities and is supported by a dedicated threat intelligence team.
• Compliance Templates: With increasing regulatory demands, Kandji provides automated compliance security templates that allow organizations to quickly align with industry standards, simplifying audits and assessments.

4. Cross-Functional Collaboration Tools: The shift toward a more integrated approach to IT and InfoSec management has led Kandji to develop features that enhance collaboration between these teams. By breaking down silos, Kandji promotes shared intelligence and coordinated responses to security challenges:

• Unified Management Dashboard: Kandji’s platform provides a centralized interface where IT and InfoSec teams can access the same data, enabling informed decision-making and faster response times.
• Shared Automation Workflows: By enabling both teams to create and implement workflows, Kandji fosters a collaborative environment that enhances overall efficiency and security.

5. User-Centric Design and Experience: The evolution of Kandji’s product suite also emphasizes user experience. As Apple devices are known for their intuitive interfaces, Kandji aligns its management tools to ensure that both IT administrators and end-users find the platform seamless and effective:

• Intuitive Interface: The user-friendly design simplifies the device management process, allowing IT teams to efficiently manage a wide array of devices without extensive training.
• Delightful User Experience: Features like automated device configuration and proactive security measures create a positive experience for end-users, enhancing productivity and satisfaction.

6. Adaptation to Emerging Technologies: As new technologies emerge—such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced analytics—Kandji has begun to integrate these capabilities into its platform. This proactive approach positions Kandji to remain at the forefront of Apple device management:

• Data-Driven Insights: By incorporating analytics into the device management process, Kandji can provide actionable insights that help organizations optimize their IT operations and enhance security measures.
• Predictive Automation: Future iterations may leverage AI to predict potential security issues or automate responses to common problems, further reducing the burden on IT teams.

Flagship Product: Kandji Device Management

Kandji Device Management is a MDM solution designed to streamline the management of Apple devices within organizations, providing IT teams with tools to deploy, configure, and secure macOS, iOS, and iPadOS devices efficiently. It operates by providing a suite of tools tailored for managing Apple devices within organizations. It enables zero-touch deployment, allowing new devices to be configured automatically without IT intervention when powered on. Users can easily enroll their devices through a self-service portal, while IT administrators leverage features like Assignment Maps and Blueprints to customize configurations based on user roles or departments.

Key Features:

• Zero-Touch Deployment: Automatically configures new Apple devices without IT intervention, enabling users to start using them right out of the box.
• Automated App and OS Updates: Keeps devices up to date with the latest applications and operating systems to enhance security and compliance.
• Assignment Maps: Allows IT admins to create customized configurations for devices based on user roles, departments, or other criteria.
• User-Initiated Enrollment: Simplifies the process for users to enroll their own devices through a self-service portal, reducing the workload on IT.
• Compliance Templates: Provides a library of pre-built security controls and compliance templates for easy adherence to regulatory requirements.
• Prism Reporting Tool: Offers real-time visibility into device status and compliance, enabling efficient monitoring and troubleshooting.
• Self-Service Portal: Empowers users to access and install apps independently, minimizing IT requests and enhancing productivity.
• MDM Plus Features: Includes a proprietary macOS agent for offline compliance enforcement, ensuring security measures remain active even without internet access.

Kandji automates app and OS updates, ensures compliance through its extensive library of pre-built templates, and enhances security with features like Lost Mode for mobile devices. The Prism tool offers real-time visibility into device status, and a self-service portal empowers users to access apps and resources independently, ultimately streamlining management processes and boosting productivity. Kandji Device Management stands out due to its focus on automation and Apple-specific functionalities, offering a seamless, user-friendly experience for managing Apple devices in enterprise environments.

Kandji Device Management is ideal for organizations that mainly use Apple devices and want a simpler, more efficient method for managing their Apple device fleets. It's particularly ideal for corporate enterprises focused on security and compliance, educational institutions managing student and faculty devices, and remote or hybrid workforces that require effective off-site device management. Overall, Kandji is beneficial for any organization aiming to enhance productivity, ensure security, and simplify the management of Apple devices. A free 21-day trial is available upon signup.

Notable Product: Kandji Endpoint Detection & Response

Kandji Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) is a security solution specifically designed for macOS devices that protects against evolving cyber threats by actively monitoring and responding to potential security incidents. It operates by analyzing metadata on files in real-time, enabling the detection of malicious activities before they can cause harm.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive Threat Detection: Combines pre-execution and post-execution methodologies to capture nearly all known malware variants, while using behavioral analytics to identify unknown threats based on typical execution actions.
• Process Management: Capable of killing processes associated with malicious activities and quarantining identified threats to prevent further harm.
• Custom Allow/Block Lists: Enables admins to enforce allow/block lists by file hash and path, allowing for tailored security policies that align with organizational needs.
• Protect and Detect Modes: Offers two operational modes—Protect Mode actively neutralizes threats, while Detect Mode identifies potential issues without taking immediate action, generating alerts for admin review.
• Data Loss Protection (DLP): Adds security controls for USB devices, ensuring data integrity and protection against unauthorized access.
• Frictionless Quarantine Release: Simplifies the process for admins to release mistakenly quarantined files and add them to the allow list, streamlining incident management.
• Threat Event Analysis: Provides a detailed view of threat events, including classification, actions taken, and timestamps, allowing for effective post-incident analysis.

Leveraging Apple’s Endpoint Security framework, Kandji EDR can quarantine suspicious files instantly as a user initiates a download. This proactive approach, combined with a single-agent deployment that integrates seamlessly with Kandji Device Management, allows organizations to achieve comprehensive security and streamlined management of their Apple devices while maintaining a user-friendly experience.

Kandji EDR and Kandji Device Management work in tandem to provide comprehensive protection and simplified management for Apple devices. By utilizing a single agent for both solutions, organizations benefit from simplified deployment and a unified interface for IT teams. Device Management automates device setup, app installations, and compliance enforcement, while EDR actively monitors and analyzes file activities to detect and respond to potential threats in real-time. This integration enhances visibility into device statuses, ensures effective enforcement of security policies, and enables a coordinated incident response.

Kandji EDR stands out from other EDR solutions primarily due to its exclusive focus on the macOS ecosystem, which allows it to leverage Apple’s Endpoint Security framework for tailored threat detection and response. With comprehensive threat intelligence gathered from millions of malware definitions and continuous updates from expert threat researchers, Kandji EDR provides robust protection specifically designed for Apple environments.

Challenges and How They Were Addressed

Kandji faced several challenges during its growth and development, particularly in the highly competitive landscape of Apple device management and security. Here are some key challenges and how they were addressed:

• Market Saturation: The device management sector was already crowded with various MDM solutions, making it difficult for Kandji to stand out. To address this, Kandji focused on creating a product specifically tailored for Apple devices, integrating unique features like automated compliance and a user-friendly interface, which distinguished it from generic solutions.
• Complexity of Legacy Systems: Many organizations were using outdated or overly complex MDM systems that were not well-suited for modern needs. Kandji developed an automated migration tool to simplify the transition from legacy systems to its platform, making it easier for companies to adopt their solution without significant disruptions.
• Security Concerns: As cyber threats increased, particularly targeting macOS, Kandji had to ensure robust security measures. They responded by integrating comprehensive EDR capabilities that could detect and respond to threats in real-time, leveraging Apple’s Endpoint Security framework to enhance their protective measures.
• Scalability Issues: As organizations grow, their device management needs to become more complex. Kandji introduced features like Assignment Maps and flexible Blueprints, allowing IT teams to easily scale device management practices across large fleets while maintaining control and compliance.
• User Adoption: Encouraging users to embrace new technology can be challenging. Kandji addressed this by focusing on the end-user experience, providing a seamless onboarding process and self-service options that empower users to manage their own devices with minimal IT intervention.
• Funding and Growth: Securing initial funding to support development and scaling was critical. The founders leveraged their reputation and connections in the tech industry to attract investments from notable VC firms, allowing Kandji to grow rapidly and invest in product enhancements.

By tackling these challenges head-on with targeted solutions, Kandji has positioned itself as a leader in the Apple device management space, driving significant growth and adoption among organizations using Apple technology.

Wrap-Up

In conclusion, Kandji stands out as a pivotal player in the realm of Apple device management, addressing the unique challenges that organizations face in securing and managing their macOS, iOS, and iPadOS environments. Founded in 2018 by Adam Pettit and his team, Kandji was born from a deep understanding of the gaps in existing device management solutions, particularly those tailored for Apple. The company's mission centers around creating a streamlined, efficient platform that not only enhances security but also improves productivity for IT teams and end users alike.

Kandji's product suite, encompassing both Device Management and Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR), offers a comprehensive solution for organizations heavily reliant on Apple devices. Key features such as automated app updates, zero-touch deployment, and customizable allow/block lists facilitate a frictionless experience for IT administrators and users. The EDR capabilities further enrich this offering by providing real-time threat detection and response, tailored specifically for the macOS environment.

Kandji's unique selling proposition lies in its focus on automation and user experience, which not only saves time for IT teams but also ensures that end users can seamlessly integrate their devices into the workplace without unnecessary IT intervention. The proactive approach to security—combined with robust features like threat event analysis and frictionless quarantine release—positions Kandji as a formidable solution against the rising tide of cyber threats targeting Apple devices.

Despite facing challenges such as market saturation and the complexities of legacy systems, Kandji has effectively addressed these hurdles through innovative product development and strategic positioning within the tech landscape. The company's ability to adapt to the evolving needs of enterprises while maintaining a singular focus on Apple technology has led to impressive growth and recognition, including significant funding rounds that underscore its potential for future expansion.

Looking ahead, Kandji is well-positioned to capitalize on the increasing adoption of Apple products in enterprise environments. Future prospects may include expanding their product offerings to integrate even more advanced security features, developing deeper partnerships with other technology providers, and potentially exploring international markets to broaden their user base.