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What to expect
The ESET Security Management Center (ESMC) Mobile Device Management (MDM) component uses the APNs communication protocol for the management of iOS devices. All ESMC MDM components older than version 7.2.11.3 rely on the old binary API part of the APNs protocol. In November 2020, when the binary API part of the APNs protocol is deprecated, users with an MDM component on a version older than version 7.2.11.3 will lose the ability to manage iOS devices.
To work properly, ESMC MDM version 7.2.11.3 requires a new network port (2197). For more information on network requirements, refer to the Ports used > ESMC MDC Machine section of the ESMC Installation/Upgrade Online Help guide.
FAQ
- What should I do to preserve the full connectivity and functionality of iOS devices managed by ESMC MDM?
Prior to the November 2020 deadline, upgrade the ESMC MDM component to version 7.2.11.3. If required, execute the certificate exchange process. - What if I upgraded my ESMC MDM component to version 7.2.11.3 after the November 2020 deadline?
If the ESMC MDM component is upgraded after the November 2020 deadline the managed iOS devices should restore the connectivity and functionality when the upgrade process is finished.
- Can I still use my self-signed certificate signed by ESMC CA after the November 2020 deadline?
Yes. You can still use the self-signed certificate signed by ESMC CA after the November 2020 deadline. However, there is a potential loss of connectivity if the HTTPS certificate exchange is executed without the MDM upgraded to version 7.2.11.3. - What will happen if I execute the HTTPS certificate exchange without upgrading the MDM component after the November 2020 deadline?
If the user has self-signed the HTTPS certificate and executes the HTTPS certificate exchange before upgrading the ESMC MDM component to version 7.2.11.3 after the November 2020 deadline, iOS devices can lose connectivity. This occurs because the iOS device is unable to exchange trust with the MDM component due to the MDM component's inability to notify the iOS device via the old APNs protocol. - What if I use a third-party HTTP certificate trusted by Apple and upgrade my ESMC MDM component after the November 2020 deadline?
Managed devices will automatically reconnect to the MDM component when the ESMC MDM upgrade to version 7.2.11.3 is complete.