DEP-2025 Apple Deployment and Management Certification Exam Questions and Answers

Apple Learning highlights that onlyAutomated Device Enrollment (ADE)ensures a device remains persistently managed and supervised, preventing users from manually removing the MDM profile. When ADE is configured in Apple Business Manager, the MDM profile can be marked asnon-removable, ensuring the device always checks in with MDM. This is crucial for organization-owned devices where IT must guarantee compliance and enforce policies. Account-driven and profile-driven enrollments are user-initiated, and the user can choose to remove management at any time. User Enrollment, by design, prioritizes privacy for BYOD and always allows unenrollment. Therefore, ADE is the enrollment type required when the organization needs strong, enforced management and non-removable MDM profiles.

Account-driven User Enrollment requires a Managed Apple Account to initiate the process, enabling separation of personal and organizational data on personally owned devices. TheiOS Deployment Referencestates, "Account-driven User Enrollment requires the user to sign in with a Managed Apple ID on the device, which triggers the enrollment process and establishes a managed container for organizational data." Option B is incorrect as a personal Apple Account isn’t used for this enrollment type, C relates to manual enrollment methods, and D is not a standard requirement for this process.

Profile Manager, a feature for creating and managing configuration profiles, is supported on Mac computers running macOS 10.14 (Mojave) or later, following the integration of macOS Server features into the OS. iPads (option A), iPhones (option B), and Apple Watches (option D) don’t host Profile Manager, though they can receive profiles from it. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidespecifies macOS as the platform for Profile Manager.

AirDrop works with Shared iPad. TheiOS Deployment Referencestates, "Shared iPad supports features like AirDrop that don’t require a single user’s Apple ID, unlike Continuity features such as Universal Control or Sidecar."

For managed app distribution, Apple Business Manager usesserver tokenslinked to Managed Apple Accounts. When a password for the Managed Apple Account that originally downloaded the content token is changed, that token is invalidated. Apple documents clearly state that “if the password changes, the token must be regenerated and re-uploaded to the MDM solution.” This explains why licenses suddenly stop syncing into MDM despite being purchased. APNs token expiration, admin password changes, or role assignments do not directly affect app license synchronization. Only the Managed Apple Account tied to the token can impact this.

Apple Business Manager (ABM) is Apple’s web-based portal designed for IT administrators in businesses to manage device enrollment (via Automated Device Enrollment), purchase and distribute app licenses, and assign content like books. Apple School Manager (option C) serves a similar purpose but is tailored for educational institutions. Apple Configurator (option B) is a macOS app for device configuration, not a portal. There’s no “Managed Apple ID portal” (option D); Managed Apple IDs are managed within ABM or ASM. The question’s broad scope fits ABM for business contexts, as per theApple Platform Deployment Guide.

Apple’s MDM framework allows organizations to take ownership of apps that users may have installed manually. This process is calledconverting unmanaged apps to managed. When an administrator deploys the same app via MDM to a supervised device, Apple documentation specifies that the system silently converts the app to a managed state. No user interaction is required, and the existing app data remains intact. This avoids disruption while still giving the organization control over the app, including the ability to configure settings, update it, or remove it remotely. Options like requiring user approval or uninstalling the app are not part of the standard workflow; Apple designed the feature to ensure seamless transition for end users while granting IT management authority.

Find My requires an Apple ID (personal or Managed) to enable device tracking, remote locking, or wiping via iCloud. It’s a user-initiated feature activated in device settings, not dependent on organizational tools. An MDM solution (option A) can manage Find My settings but isn’t required to use it. Supervision (option C) enhances management but isn’t necessary for Find My. A VPN configuration (option D) is unrelated. TheApple Platform Security Guidespecifies an Apple ID as the prerequisite for Find My.

Configuration profiles allow IT administrators to manage email settings on a device, preconfiguring accounts with details like server addresses, ports, and authentication (e.g., OAuth, certificates). These profiles are deployed via MDM or manually, ensuring consistent email access. Find My (option B) and iCloud (option C) are unrelated to email management. MDM (option D) delivers profiles, but the profiles define the settings. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidedetails email configuration via profiles.

The Wi-Fi payload supports Cisco Fastlane QoS. TheMobile Device Management Protocol Referencestates, "The Wi-Fi payload supports Cisco Fastlane QoS settings, allowing administrators to prioritize traffic for critical applications on macOS devices." Options A, B, and D serve different purposes.

Configuration profiles enable IT administrators to manage VPN settings on a device, specifying details like server address, protocol (e.g., IKEv2, L2TP), and authentication methods (e.g., certificates, credentials). These profiles are deployed via MDM or manually, ensuring secure network access. Find My (option B) and iCloud (option C) are unrelated to VPN management. MDM (option D) is the system that delivers profiles, but the profiles themselves contain the VPN settings. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidedetails VPN configuration via profiles.

Auto Advance skips Setup Assistant. ThemacOS Deployment Referencestates, "Auto Advance automatically skips all Setup Assistant panes on a Mac connected to Ethernet, streamlining deployment." Options B, C, and D are not standard MDM features.

In Apple School Manager (ASM), the Administrator role is required to purchase books through the Apps and Books section, as it has permissions to manage financial transactions and content acquisition. Other roles, like Content Manager, can distribute but not purchase. An Apple Developer account (option B) is for apps, not books. A Managed Apple ID (option C) is for users, not purchasing. User acceptance (option D) is irrelevant. The Apple School Manager User Guide confirms the Administrator’s purchasing authority.

Activations store values. TheMobile Device Management Protocol Referencestates, "Declarative Device Management uses Activations declarations to store values on a device, enabling proactive state management."

Apple documents that devices prioritizepreferred networksfirst — these are networks the user or MDM has explicitly joined and saved. If no preferred networks are available, devices then attempt to joinprivate networks(those that do not broadcast public hotspots but are available locally). Finally, as a last resort, devices may joinpublic networks, such as captive Wi-Fi portals or unsecured hotspots. Apple Learning highlights this hierarchy to ensure consistent enterprise behavior and user experience. Administrators can influence priority through MDM-delivered Wi-Fi payloads, placing organizational SSIDs at the top of the preferred list. Public networks are deliberately last in the sequence because they are less secure and more likely to involve captive portals, which disrupt automatic connectivity.

Configuration profiles allow IT administrators to manage cellular settings on iOS/iPadOS devices, such as configuring APN settings, disabling data roaming, or restricting cellular data for specific apps. These profiles are deployed via MDM or manually. Find My (option B) and iCloud (option C) are unrelated to cellular management. MDM (option D) delivers profiles, but the profiles contain the settings. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidedetails cellular configuration via profiles.

Server tokens expire annually. TheApple Business Manager User Guidestates, "The MDM server token expires every 12 months and must be renewed to maintain enrollment functionality."

Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions are used to manage and secure Apple devices remotely. To link a device to an MDM solution, an enrollment profile is required. This profile is a configuration file that, once installed on the device, establishes a connection between the device and the MDM server, allowing the server to send commands and policies to the device. The enrollment profile contains information such as the MDM server’s URL and authentication details, enabling secure communication via Apple Push Notification service (APNs). While APNs (option A) facilitates communication between the MDM server and the device after enrollment, it is not the mechanism that links the device to the MDM solution. A firewall (option B) is a network security tool and unrelated to linking a device to MDM, and a restriction (option C) is a policy applied via MDM, not the linking mechanism itself. According to Apple’s official documentation, such as theApple Platform Deployment Guide, the enrollment profile is the foundational step for MDM enrollment.

Supervising a device, typically done via Apple Configurator or ADE, enables additional restrictions and management capabilities not available on unsupervised devices. Examples include blocking app installation, enforcing single-app mode, or preventing profile removal, enhancing organizational control. Personalization (option A) is more aligned with unsupervised or User Enrollment devices. Data separation (option C) is a User Enrollment feature, not supervision. Simplified enrollment (option D) is a byproduct of ADE, not supervision’s primary benefit. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidehighlights supervision’s enhanced control features.

Apple explains that for a device to enroll into a new MDM server through Automated Device Enrollment (ADE), it must go through the Setup Assistant workflow again. This requires the device to beerasedbefore it will attempt to re-enroll. Simply reassigning the device in Apple Business Manager does not trigger enrollment until the device is reset and Setup Assistant runs. Apple stresses that erase is necessary because ADE workflows are tied to the initial setup sequence. Remote wipe from ABM/ASM is not a feature, and Revive is a low-level restore process for Apple silicon, not for standard redeployment. Releasing devices removes them entirely from ABM. Therefore, erasing is the only required action before the device can enroll in the new MDM.

Upgrading macOS requires volume ownership, tied to an admin account with permissions to modify the system volume. ThemacOS Deployment Referencestates, "To install or upgrade macOS, the user must have volume ownership, which allows the system to authenticate the operation against the secure volume." Option B is for MDM updates, C is insufficient alone in newer macOS versions, and D is for content, not upgrades.

Apple Configurator for Mac allows administrators to create Blueprints, which are templates for configuring devices with settings, apps, and profiles. TheApple Configurator User Guideexplains, "Apple Configurator for Mac allows you to create Blueprints—templates containing settings, apps, and profiles—that can be applied to iPhones, iPads, or Macs during configuration." Option A is an MDM feature, B requires MDM for over-the-air updates, and D is handled via Apple Business Manager, not Configurator.

ADE enables supervision. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidestates, "Automated Device Enrollment automatically supervises devices during setup when linked to Apple Business Manager."

In Automated Device Enrollment (ADE), admins can configure Setup Assistant toskip local account creation. Apple Learning explains that when this pane is skipped, the Mac will not prompt the user to create a local administrator account during setup. Instead, the Mac expects the user to authenticate with anetwork account(such as one tied to LDAP or Active Directory) or have an account provisioned later through another method (for example, an identity tool like Jamf Connect). This option is often used in environments where accounts are centrally managed, reducing local variability and enforcing directory-based access. The setup process does not fail, and users are not forced to erase their device. Instead, account creation is deferred or redirected, depending on the organization’s chosen identity integration.

Skipping the pane leaves Location Services off but adjustable. TheiOS Deployment Referencestates, "When the Location Services pane is skipped in Setup Assistant, it remains off by default, but users can enable it in Settings unless restricted by MDM." Option A reflects this flexibility.

Configuration profiles allow IT administrators to manage location settings on a device, such as enabling/disabling Location Services, restricting app access to location data, or enforcing privacy settings. These profiles are deployed via MDM or manually. Find My (option B) uses location for tracking but isn’t a management tool. iCloud (option C) is unrelated to location management. MDM (option D) delivers profiles, but the profiles define the settings. The Apple Platform Deployment Guide details location control via profiles.

Only managed data is backed up with a Managed Apple ID. TheiOS Deployment Referencestates, "Under User Enrollment, an iCloud backup using a Managed Apple ID includes only data from managed apps, keeping personal data separate."

Apple requires the use ofApple Configurator for iPhoneto manually add Macs into Apple Business Manager or Apple School Manager. The workflow involves placing the target Mac into Device Enrollment mode and then scanning an on-screen image with the Configurator app running on an iPhone. Once completed, the Mac is added to the organization’s ABM account with a 30-day provisional period. Apple Configurator for Mac, while useful for restoring and preparing iOS/iPadOS devices, does not support manually adding Macs to ABM. System Settings and Xcode are unrelated to device enrollment workflows. This method is Apple’s prescribed approach for organizations acquiring Macs outside normal reseller channels.

Lost Mode, an MDM feature for supervised devices, allows device tracking by locking the device, displaying a custom message, and reporting its location (if Location Services are enabled). It’s a security tool for recovering lost or stolen devices. Additional restrictions (option B) are a supervision feature, not Lost Mode’s benefit. Network performance (option C) and data separation (option D) are unrelated. TheMDM Protocol Referencehighlights tracking as Lost Mode’s primary benefit.

Configuration profiles enable IT administrators to manage app installation settings on a device, such as restricting the App Store, preventing app removal, or enforcing an allow list of approved apps. These profiles are deployed via MDM or manually, ensuring control over app usage. Find My (option B) and iCloud (option C) are user-focused features unrelated to app installation management. MDM (option D) is the delivery mechanism, but the profiles define the settings. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidedetails app installation control via configuration profiles.

Apple works with Cisco through theFastlane for iOS and macOSinitiative, enabling Quality of Service (QoS) for enterprise apps. According to Apple Learning, the prioritization of traffic is configured via theWi-Fi payload, where specific applications or domains can be marked for QoS priority. This ensures critical apps, such as video conferencing tools, maintain performance even in congested wireless environments. Network Usage Rules are used to control when apps can use cellular data, not to prioritize QoS. System Extensions manage kernel-level extensions, and Restrictions govern device functionality but not network traffic. By setting policies in the Wi-Fi payload, IT ensures application traffic is correctly tagged for Cisco network prioritization, delivering a seamless, high-quality user experience.

Apple introducedEnrollment Single Sign-On (SSO)to simplify the account-driven enrollment workflow. Normally, users must repeatedly authenticate when setting up device enrollment. With Enrollment SSO, authentication can be completed once, and the credentials are securely passed across enrollment steps. This reduces complexity, prevents password fatigue, and minimizes enrollment errors. Apple Learning materials highlight that this feature is specifically designed foraccount-driven enrollmenton iPhone and iPad, aligning with modern identity provider integrations. Unlike “Sign in with Apple,” which is consumer-focused, Enrollment SSO is tailored for enterprise identity workflows with Microsoft Entra, Okta, or Google Workspace.

User Enrollment, designed for BYOD, requires a Managed Apple ID to separate personal and managed data on the device. The Managed Apple ID authenticates the user for organizational policies while preserving personal privacy. Automated Device Enrollment (option A) and Device Enrollment (option B) are for organization-owned devices and don’t inherently require Managed Apple IDs, though they can use them optionally. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidespecifies that User Enrollment relies on Managed Apple IDs for its functionality.

Apple introducedUnlisted Appsto support distribution scenarios where organizations want apps available via the App Store but not publicly searchable. According to Apple Learning, these apps are hosted in the App Store infrastructure, but they can only be accessed through adirect linkprovided to users. This method is useful for apps that are intended for a limited audience (e.g., internal tools, event apps) but do not require the full privacy of Custom Apps or enterprise-only In-house Apps. Custom Apps are distributed privately through Apple Business Manager to specific organizations, while Public Apps are searchable by everyone. Unlisted is the only category that resides in the App Store yet is hidden from search, ensuring controlled but flexible distribution.

Apple’sPlatform Single Sign-On (Platform SSO)integrates macOS with modern cloud identity providers such as Microsoft Entra ID or Okta. A primary benefit documented in Apple Learning is the ability forlocal account credentials to remain synchronized with IdP credentials. This means when a user changes their password at the IdP, the same update flows automatically to their macOS account, preventing mismatched credentials. This eliminates the long-standing issue of password drift seen in older directory-bound workflows. Kerberos SSO is a legacy technology, and federated Managed Apple Accounts are tied to Apple Business Manager, not directly to Platform SSO. IdP passkey integration with iCloud Keychain is a separate security enhancement, not part of Platform SSO. The essential benefit is seamless credential synchronization across local accounts and IdPs.

Configuration profiles enable device customization by allowing IT administrators to define settings (e.g., Wi-Fi, VPN, security policies) tailored to organizational needs, deployed via MDM or manually. Personalization (option A) is user-driven, often restricted by profiles. Network performance (option C) is unrelated, and data separation (option D) is a User Enrollment feature. TheApple Platform Deployment Guideemphasizes customization as a key benefit of profiles.

To support network roaming—where devices maintain connectivity while moving throughout a building—evaluating Wi-Fi coverage and capacity is essential. This involves assessing signal strength, bandwidth availability, and the ability of the wireless network to handle multiple devices seamlessly. Proper placement and power of access points ensure uninterrupted service. Number of devices per user (option A) is unrelated to roaming. Adequate access points per device (option C) is a specific detail within coverage and capacity, not the overarching aspect. Sources of interference (option D) is a factor to consider but secondary to overall coverage and capacity. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidestresses Wi-Fi infrastructure evaluation for mobility needs.

In Kerberos, the Ticket-Granting Ticket (TGT) is the feature that enables single sign-on (SSO). After initial authentication, the user receives a TGT from the Key Distribution Center (KDC). The TGT is then used to obtain service tickets for accessing various resources without re-authenticating, providing a seamless SSO experience. Sign in with Apple at Work & School (option A) is an Apple-specific feature, not a Kerberos component. OAuth (option B) and SAML (option D) are separate SSO protocols, not Kerberos features. TheApple Platform Security Guideexplains the TGT’s role in Kerberos SSO.

Managed Distribution in Apple Business Manager (ABM) and Apple School Manager (ASM) enables administrators to assign apps (purchased or free) to users or devices via an MDM solution. It replaced the legacy Volume Purchase Program (VPP, option D), integrating app purchasing and distribution into ABM/ASM. Automated Device Enrollment (option A) is for device enrollment, not app assignment. User Enrollment (option C) is a BYOD enrollment type, not an app distribution feature. TheApple Business Manager User Guidedetails Managed Distribution as the mechanism for app assignment.

Licenses can only transfer within an organization. TheApple Business Manager User Guidestates, "Licenses can be transferred between locations, but both the sending and receiving locations must belong to the same organization in Apple Business Manager." Option D is false as licenses must be unassigned first.

Apple introducedRapid Security Response (RSR)to deliver urgent security patches without waiting for a full OS release. When an RSR is applied to iOS, iPadOS, or macOS, Apple adds asingle letter (such as “a”, “b”, or “c”)to the OS version. For example, iPadOS 16.5 (a) indicates an RSR patch has been installed. Apple Learning documents clarify that these patches can later be incorporated into full OS updates, at which point the letter disappears. This simple identifier lets IT admins and users quickly confirm whether a device has received critical security protections.

Apple School Manager (ASM) supports the distribution of multiple content types via Managed Distribution: apps (free or purchased), books (from the Books Store), and custom content (e.g., PDFs or ePub files created by the organization). This allows schools to manage all educational materials centrally. Options A, B, and C are all correct individually, but D encompasses them all, aligning with ASM’s capabilities as outlined in theApple School Manager User Guide.

Configuration profiles allow IT administrators to manage Screen Time settings on iOS/iPadOS devices (and macOS to a lesser extent), such as setting app limits, restricting content, or enforcing downtime. These profiles are deployed via MDM or manually, aligning with organizational policies. Find My (option B) and iCloud (option C) are unrelated to Screen Time management. MDM (option D) delivers profiles, but the profiles define the settings. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidedetails Screen Time configuration via profiles.

Cryptographic separation isolates managed and personal data. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidestates, "Account-driven User Enrollment and Account-driven Device Enrollment provide cryptographic separation by isolating managed data (tied to a Managed Apple ID) from personal data (tied to a personal Apple ID)." A creates a managed container, and B extends this to device-level management. Options C, D, and E lack this separation.

In Apple Business Manager (ABM), the Administrator role is required to purchase apps through the Apps and Books section, as it has permissions to manage financial transactions and content acquisition. Other roles, like Content Manager, can distribute but not purchase apps. An Apple Developer account (option B) is for app development, not purchasing. A Managed Apple ID (option C) is for users, not administrators buying apps. User acceptance (option D) is irrelevant to purchasing. TheApple Business Manager User Guideconfirms the Administrator’s purchasing authority.

Configuration profiles enable IT administrators to manage Wi-Fi settings on a device, such as preconfiguring network SSIDs, passwords, and security protocols (e.g., WPA2 Enterprise). These profiles are deployed via MDM or manually, ensuring devices connect to approved networks. Find My (option B) and iCloud (option C) are unrelated to Wi-Fi management. MDM (option D) is the delivery mechanism, but the profiles define the settings. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidedetails Wi-Fi configuration via profiles.

Apple’sApps and Booksprogram within Apple Business Manager (ABM) allows organizations to purchase apps and books in volume. A critical benefit is the ability totransfer licenses between locationswithin the same ABM account. Apple Learning specifies that this feature enables schools, campuses, or departments to redistribute app licenses as organizational needs evolve, without changing the overall license count. Content is not automatically assigned to user accounts; admins choose device- or user-based assignment. Both free and paid apps are available, so there is no restriction to free content. Additionally, purchasing can be delegated to roles such as Content Managers, not just administrators. The ability to move licenses across locations makes management flexible and cost-efficient, while maintaining organizational ownership of the content.

For new devices purchased from an Apple Authorized Reseller or carrier to automatically appear in Apple Business Manager or School Manager, the reseller must be linked to your organization. Apple states that this is done by providing the reseller with yourOrganization IDand entering theirReseller Numberin ABM/ASM. Once the reseller’s number is configured, devices purchased from that reseller automatically populate into ABM for assignment to MDM. Customer Numbers are used when buying directly from Apple, not from resellers. Purchase orders or Org IDs alone will not ensure devices sync. The Reseller Number is the required element here.

When organizations configureSetup Assistant skip options, they are designed to streamline the enrollment process while maintaining flexibility for the end user. Skipping theLocation Services paneprevents the user from being asked to make a decision during setup. By default, Location Services isturned offwhen skipped. However, Apple Learning documentation clearly states that users can later navigate toSettings > Privacy & Security > Location Servicesand manually enable it. This ensures organizations can deploy devices quickly without requiring immediate user interaction, while also respecting user choice and privacy. It’s important to note that this is different from MDM-enforced restrictions, which can lock the setting entirely. In this case, the skip payload does not prevent future configuration; it simply suppresses the prompt during setup.

Managed Distribution requires Apple Business Manager (ABM) or Apple School Manager (ASM) to purchase and assign apps, books, or custom content to users or devices, which are then deployed via MDM. An Apple Developer account (option A) is for custom app creation, not distribution management. User acceptance (option C) may be needed for non-supervised devices but isn’t a requirement for the feature itself. A VPN configuration (option D) is unrelated. TheApple Business Manager User Guidemandates ABM/ASM for Managed Distribution.

Administrator and People Manager roles manage federation but use local ABM/ASM credentials. TheApple Business Manager User Guidestates, "Administrators and People Managers can configure and manage the federation process in Apple Business Manager or Apple School Manager, but their accounts remain local and cannot sign in using federated authentication." Options C, D, and E lack these permissions or are not relevant roles for federation management.

Apple’sMDM frameworkis the backbone of enterprise device management. It allows MDM solutions to send configuration profiles, security commands, and restrictions to managed devices securely via the Apple Push Notification service (APNs). Apple documentation highlights that the framework is integrated into all Apple platforms, making it the official channel for managing device settings, distributing apps, and enforcing compliance. Other technologies like federated authentication or Platform SSO assist with identity but do not perform configuration tasks. Therefore, the MDM framework is the required technology that makes centralized configuration and command execution possible for iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices.

Bonjouris Apple’s implementation of zero-configuration networking. Apple documentation explains that Bonjour uses multicast DNS (mDNS) to allow devices to automatically discover services such as printers, file sharing, or AirPlay-enabled displays on a local network. It does not optimize roaming or manage wireless standards like 802.11r or 802.11v. The main purpose of Bonjour is discovery and advertisement of network services without requiring manual DNS or IP configuration. In enterprise environments, Bonjour can be extended or bridged across subnets with special controllers, but its core functionality remains service discovery in a LAN context.

TheReturn to Serviceworkflow is designed for quickly redeploying supervised devices without IT staff manually setting them up. Apple notes that when initiating Return to Service with the EraseDevice command, administrators can optionally include items such as aWi-Fi profile. This ensures that the freshly erased device reconnects to the organization’s network automatically, allowing enrollment and setup to proceed without user intervention. Other items like wallpapers, installed apps, or Home Screen layouts are restored later through MDM after enrollment. Including a Wi-Fi payload is particularly critical for devices that do not have cellular connectivity.

Custom local networks and public IP settings span subnets. ThemacOS Deployment Referencestates, "To optimize bandwidth across subnets, use ‘Cache content for devices using custom local networks’ to specify multiple subnets and ‘devices using the same public IP address’ for broader reach."

On Macs with Apple silicon and T2 security chips, Apple requiresvolume ownershipto perform major macOS upgrades and certain system-level changes. Volume ownership is granted during setup to the first account created, and it provides the secure entitlement to authorize system updates, OS reinstalls, and recovery options. Apple Learning materials emphasize that administrator rights alone are insufficient; a user may be an admin without volume ownership and still be blocked from upgrading. The bootstrap token is relevant to FileVault and SecureToken provisioning, but not directly tied to OS upgrades. Managed Apple Accounts also do not control OS upgrades unless combined with MDM restrictions. This requirement ensures that only authorized users with secure entitlements can modify or upgrade macOS, protecting device integrity and reducing unauthorized system alterations.

User Enrollment limits MDM capabilities. TheiOS Deployment Referencestates, "With User Enrollment, MDM can install and configure apps, manage accounts, and apply restrictions to managed data, but it cannot access location, wipe the device, or enable Activation Lock."

Platform SSO syncs credentials with an IdP. ThemacOS Security Overviewstates, "Platform SSO allows users to synchronize their local Mac account password with an identity provider, providing a seamless login experience." Option B is a separate feature, C is managed via ABM, and D is unrelated to Platform SSO.

Remote wipe preserves eSIM. TheMobile Device Management Protocol Referencestates, "The EraseDevice command with the preserveDataPlan option allows MDM to keep the eSIM active during a wipe, aiding redeployment."

User Enrollment is designed for Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) scenarios, separating personal and managed data on the device. It uses a Managed Apple ID to apply organizational policies (e.g., managed apps) while leaving personal data (e.g., photos, personal apps) untouched, leveraging a cryptographic separation. Automated Device Enrollment (option A) is for organization-owned devices with full control, not BYOD. Device Enrollment (option B) applies to organization-owned or manually enrolled devices without inherent data separation. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidedetails User Enrollment’s privacy-focused approach for BYOD.

Apple Business Manager (ABM) uses a device’s serial number to identify devices purchased from Apple or an authorized reseller for enrollment in Automated Device Enrollment (ADE). Serial numbers are unique to each device and linked to purchase records, allowing ABM to verify eligibility. Order numbers (option A) track purchases but aren’t device-specific identifiers in ABM. UDID (option C) and UUID (option D) are unique identifiers for devices or instances, but they’re not used for purchase verification in ABM. TheApple Platform Deployment Guideconfirms serial numbers as the key identifier in ABM.

Deploying macOS configuration profiles to devices requires an MDM solution, which pushes the profiles remotely via APNs to enrolled devices, ensuring centralized management. An Apple Developer account (option A) is for app development, not profile deployment. User acceptance (option C) is needed for manual installation but not for MDM deployment, especially on supervised devices. A VPN configuration (option D) is unrelated. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidespecifies MDM as the standard method for deploying profiles to macOS devices.

Automated Device Enrollment (ADE), used with Apple Business Manager (ABM) or Apple School Manager (ASM), supports Activation Lock management by allowing administrators to enable, disable, or bypass Activation Lock on supervised devices via MDM. This is critical for organization-owned devices to ensure they can be reactivated after a wipe without user Apple IDs. Device Enrollment (option B) can manage Activation Lock if the device is supervised, but it’s not inherent without ADE. User Enrollment (option C) doesn’t support full Activation Lock management, as it’s for BYOD with limited control. The Apple Platform Deployment Guide ties Activation Lock management to ADE.

Managed Distribution, available through Apple Business Manager (ABM) or Apple School Manager (ASM), is required to deploy books to devices using an MDM solution. Administrators purchase books in ABM/ASM, assign them to users or devices via Managed Distribution, and the MDM pushes them silently (for supervised devices) or with user consent. An Apple Developer account (option A) is for apps, not books. User acceptance (option C) may be needed for non-supervised devices but isn’t the core requirement. A VPN configuration (option D) is unrelated. TheApple Business Manager User Guideconfirms Managed Distribution for book deployment.

Content caching on a Mac improves network performance by storing frequently accessed content (e.g., app updates, iCloud data) locally, reducing internet bandwidth usage and speeding up downloads for connected devices. It doesn’t enhance security (option A), separate data (option C, a User Enrollment feature), or simplify enrollment (option D, an ADE benefit). TheApple Platform Deployment Guideemphasizes bandwidth optimization as the primary benefit of content caching.

Mobile Device Management (MDM) enables remote management of devices, allowing administrators to deploy profiles, push apps, enforce policies, and perform actions like wiping or locking devices over the internet via APNs. Personalization (option A) is user-driven and often limited by MDM. Network performance (option C) is enhanced by other features like content caching. Data separation (option D) is specific to User Enrollment, a subset of MDM capabilities. TheMDM Protocol Referenceemphasizes remote management as MDM’s core benefit.

In Apple Business Manager (ABM), the Administrator role has broad permissions, including purchasing apps and assigning devices to MDM servers. The Content Manager (option B) can manage and distribute content (e.g., apps, books) but cannot purchase apps or assign devices. The Device Enrollment Manager (option C) focuses on enrolling and assigning devices but lacks purchasing authority. The People Manager (option D) manages user accounts, not apps or devices. TheApple Business Manager User Guideoutlines the Administrator’s comprehensive responsibilities, making it the correct choice.

Configuration profiles, deployed via MDM or manually, allow IT administrators to restrict apps on a device by setting policies such as blocking the App Store, preventing app removal, or allowing only specific apps (e.g., via an allow list). These profiles are highly customizable for security and compliance. Activation Lock (option A) secures device reactivation, not app restrictions. Find My (option C) and iCloud (option D) are user-focused features without app restriction capabilities. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidedetails configuration profiles’ role in app management.

Configuration profiles enable IT administrators to manage passcode settings on a device, enforcing policies such as minimum length, complexity (e.g., alphanumeric), maximum age, and failed attempt limits. These profiles are deployed via MDM or manually, ensuring security compliance. Find My (option B) and iCloud (option C) are user-focused features unrelated to passcode management. MDM (option D) is the system that delivers profiles, but the profiles themselves define the settings. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidedetails passcode policy enforcement via configuration profiles.

Service discovery aids account-driven User Enrollment. TheiOS Deployment Referencestates, "Account-driven User Enrollment uses service discovery to automatically locate the MDM enrollment URL, streamlining the process." Option A is false (Managed Apple ID required), C applies to ADE, and D is incorrect (federation is supported).

Supervision, applied via Apple Configurator or ADE, enables additional restrictions on devices, such as blocking app removal, enforcing single-app mode, or managing Activation Lock, providing greater control for organizations. Personalization (option A) is more limited under supervision. Network performance (option C) is unrelated, and data separation (option D) is a User Enrollment feature. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidehighlights supervision’s enhanced management capabilities.

Thebootstrap tokenis a mechanism introduced by Apple to help MDM solutions automatically grant SecureToken to managed accounts. Apple specifies that escrow of a bootstrap token requires the device to besupervised. Without supervision, MDM cannot request or store the bootstrap token. This token becomes critical when enabling FileVault, since new accounts may need SecureToken for disk unlock. By escrowing the bootstrap token, MDM ensures accounts created later (e.g., through identity integration or Jamf Connect) can automatically receive SecureToken. This simplifies administration and prevents situations where FileVault cannot be enabled due to missing tokens.

When devices are updated using Apple Configurator with the“requires tethering”option, the host Mac acts as the source for software updates. In this model, the Mac downloads and caches update packages, which are then installed onto the connected iOS or iPadOS device. This bypasses typical over-the-air (OTA) caching mechanisms and content delivery networks. Apple specifies this workflow as beneficial when updating large numbers of devices in lab or classroom environments, where bandwidth efficiency and predictable installation are important. Thus, the cached update content resideson the host Mac, ensuring devices receive updates directly from a local source.

Managed Distribution, available through Apple Business Manager or Apple School Manager, enables app license management by allowing organizations to purchase, assign, and revoke app licenses centrally. This ensures efficient use of licenses, reassignment as needed, and compliance with licensing terms. Personalization (option A) is unrelated to distribution. Data separation (option C) is a feature of User Enrollment, not Managed Distribution. Simplified enrollment (option D) pertains to ADE, not app management. TheApple Business Manager User Guidehighlights license management as the primary benefit.

To install a configuration profile on an Apple device, user acceptance is required unless the device is enrolled in an MDM solution with specific automation (e.g., Automated Device Enrollment). Configuration profiles, which contain settings or policies, are typically downloaded manually (e.g., via a website or email) and must be approved by the user through the Settings app on iOS/iPadOS or System Settings on macOS. An MDM solution (option A) can push profiles, but it’s not required for manual installation. An APNs certificate (option B) is needed for MDM communication, not profile installation itself. An ADE token (option D) is for Automated Device Enrollment, not general profile installation. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidenotes that user consent is a default step for manual profile installation.

InApple Business Manager, devices must be assigned to an MDM server before Automated Device Enrollment (ADE) will trigger. Apple Learning notes that if devices, such as iPhones, are added but left without adefault MDM server assignment, they will not prompt for enrollment during setup. Macs may already have been assigned properly, which explains why they enroll as expected. Wrong locations or approval queues do not exist in ABM for ADE devices, and while a device reset is required to trigger ADE, the absence of a server assignment is the root issue here. Once the devices are assigned to the correct MDM server, users will see the ADE flow during setup. This is a common misstep in large deployments.

Setting up Shared iPad requires an MDM solution to configure the feature, assign Managed Apple IDs, and manage user sessions. The MDM applies a configuration profile specifying Shared iPad settings (e.g., temporary session mode or user-specific logins) and integrates with Apple School Manager or Apple Business Manager. Apple Configurator (option B) can supervise devices but isn’t required for Shared iPad setup. User Enrollment (option C) is for BYOD, not shared devices. A VPN configuration (option D) is unrelated. TheApple Platform Deployment Guidemandates MDM for Shared iPad deployment.