106: Zebra FOTA
Overview
Benefits
Automated Updates: Zebra FOTA allows for hands-free, automated deployment of firmware updates to Android devices. This ensures devices are always running the latest firmware without manual intervention.
Enhanced Security: Keeping firmware up-to-date is crucial for security. Automated updates help protect devices from vulnerabilities by ensuring they have the latest security patches.
Centralized Management: Intune provides a single interface to manage firmware updates for all supported Zebra devices, simplifying the update process for IT administrators.
Reduced Downtime: Automated updates minimize downtime by ensuring devices are updated during off-peak hours or scheduled maintenance windows.
Drawbacks
Initial Setup Complexity: Setting up the integration between Intune and Zebra FOTA can be complex and requires careful planning and execution.
Dependency on Connectivity: Devices need to be connected to the internet to receive updates, which might not always be feasible in all environments.
Potential Disruptions: Although updates are scheduled to minimize impact, there is always a risk of disruptions during the update process.
Impact on End Users
Improved Performance: Users benefit from devices that are always up-to-date with the latest firmware, which can improve performance and reliability.
Minimal Disruption: Properly configured updates can be deployed with minimal disruption to users, ensuring they can continue their work without significant interruptions.
Security Assurance: Users can feel more secure knowing their devices are protected with the latest security updates.
Relation to Zero Trust
Continuous Compliance: Zebra FOTA supports the Zero Trust principle by ensuring devices are continuously updated and compliant with the latest security standards.
Least Privilege: By automating updates, the principle of least privilege is enforced, as devices only receive necessary updates without requiring user intervention.
Proactive Security: Automated updates help maintain a proactive security posture, aligning with Zero Trust principles by ensuring devices are always protected against the latest threats.
Reference
- Zebra LifeGuard Over-the-Air Integration with Microsoft Intune https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/mem/intune/protect/zebra-lifeguard-ota-integration
- Introducing Microsoft Intune integration with Zebra’s Lifeguard Over-the-Air service https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/intunecustomersuccess/introducing-microsoft-intune-integration-with-zebra%e2%80%99s-lifeguard-over-the-air-ser/3830516