When it comes time to choose a mobile device management (MDM) solution, as with many software solutions today, you may find yourself trying to figure out if a cloud-based or on-premises solution is the better option. The decision isn't as simple as it may seem, though, as there is a lot of myths and misinformation out there surrounding both cloud-based and on-premises MDM.

Fortunately, Fiberlink's MaaSters Center blog recently tackled this very subject in an effort to dispel these myths.

Probably the most prominent bit of misinformation regarding the cloud is security, with many saying the cloud just isn't as secure as an on-premises solution. However, people who believe this are forgetting that $14.5 billion of business was conducted last year using software as a service (SaaS (News - Alert)), with many of these solutions managing sensitive records, and that no major security issues resulted from this. There are, of course, also the third-party security audits and agencies that have deemed cloud security acceptable.

Most other common cloud MDM myths revolve around the cloud coming up short in certain areas. For example, some say that cloud solutions only integrate with certain email systems. However, commonly used email systems such as Exchange 2007, 2010, Office 365 and LotusTraveler are all generally supported. Another example is the belief that cloud solutions don't meet current regulatory compliance, but the fact is that cloud MDM offers robust reporting and insight into granular data usage — perfect for audits and reporting in every industry.

At the end of the day, however, when considering a cloud MDM solution such as Fiberlink's well-regarded MaaS360, it comes down to what makes sense for each business. Still, though, cloud software does offer some unique benefits — superior mobility, faster deployment and easier management all at a lower price point — worth considering.