FileWave vs MicroMDM
FileWave
filewave.comMicroMDM
micromdm.ioSide by side
| Figure | FileWave | MicroMDM |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | Yes | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | Yes | — |
| Windows | Yes | — |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes | — |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | Yes | — |
| API | Yes | Yes |
| Self-hosted | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 4 | 1 |
| Spec score · Mac Management Software | 8.9 (#5) | 7.7 (#14) |
| API | The public REST API requires an API key, documents account, domains, campaigns, channels, files, links, pixels and QR-code endpoints, and supplies cURL, PHP, Node.js, Python and C# examples. | Its APIs support scheduling commands, reading device data, and managing the server. |
| Deployment | It supports cloud hosting or installation on an organization's own servers. | The quickstart describes running the MicroMDM server binary with a server URL, API key, and TLS certificate and key. |
| Device enrollment | It automates provisioning and zero-touch enrollment using Windows Autopilot, Apple ADE/DEP/DDM and Android or ChromeOS enterprise frameworks. | Apple Business Manager Device Enrollment Program integration is supported but is not required. |
| Integrations | Documented integrations include Apple MDM/DDM/VPP/ABM/ASM/ADE, Microsoft Entra, Android Enterprise, Chrome Management API, ServiceNow, Slack, Cloudflare, Deep Freeze and TeamViewer. | The setup guide documents integration with Apple Push Notification service using an Apple-issued MDM push certificate. |
| Purpose | FileWave is a unified endpoint management platform for managing devices across major operating systems. | MicroMDM is an open-source Mobile Device Management server for Apple devices, intended for enterprise and education. |
| Support | The company says customer support is available 24/5 by email, call, or video. | The project says its #micromdm channel on the MacAdmins Slack team is the best place to get help. |
Plans
FileWave
- Community EditionFree
- Community EditionFree
- ProfessionalPriced on request
- CommunityPriced on request
In their own words
FileWave
FileWave is a unified endpoint management platform for organizations managing computers, phones, tablets, and other devices across major operating systems. It supports Windows, macOS, iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, Android, and ChromeOS, and can be hosted in the cloud or installed on an organization's servers. Enrollment options include zero-touch deployment and frameworks such as Windows Autopilot, Apple ADE/DEP, and Android and ChromeOS enterprise options. Administrators can distribute apps, updates, scripts, and content with standard installers or Filesets. Its patented Fileset Technology sends changes at file level and allows deployed files to be edited or removed. The platform supports scheduled OS and third-party application patching, with testing and rollback options for Fileset revisions. Security features include encrypted communications, remote lock and wipe, and administrator two-factor authentication. Audit-ready reports cover devices, configurations, patching, licenses, encryption, and compliance. The free Community Edition is limited to 15 computers, 15 tablets, and 15 Chrome devices, with community support and no included support service.
MicroMDM
MicroMDM is a free, open-source Mobile Device Management server for Apple devices, intended for enterprise and education. Its APIs schedule commands, read device information, and administer the server. There is no built-in administrator web interface; operators use the mdmctl command-line utility, which communicates through the API. Setup involves running the server binary with a server URL, API key, and TLS certificate and key. The API key protects and authenticates API requests. When MicroMDM terminates device connections, TLS certificates and a key are required, although TLS can terminate at a load balancer instead. Setup also documents Apple Push Notification service integration with an Apple-issued MDM push certificate. Apple Business Manager Device Enrollment Program integration is supported but optional. The system supports automated enrollment, app deployment, FileVault management, and remote commands. Version 1 is in maintenance mode, with no planned feature work and security and bug fixes on an available-effort basis through the end of 2025.