Updating Firmware on Zebra Devices Using MDM

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for updating firmware on Zebra devices using MDM. The process varies based on the device’s OS version (10 and below vs. 11 and above). Firmware updates ensure security patches, bug fixes, and feature enhancements while maintaining device compliance.

Prerequisites

1. Firmware file is downloaded and verified.
2. Zebra devices are connected to the network.
3. ManageEngine MDM app is deployed on target devices.
4. For OS 10 and below, the Zebra OEM App should be available on the MDM console->App repository.

Steps to follow on MDM Console:

1. To create and apply a firmware policy, on the MDM console navigate to Device Management > Automate OS Updates->select Create Policy->Android Custom Firmware.

   Note: For OS 10 & Below Devices: Distribute the Zebra OEM App, if it is not present.

   
2. Upload the firmware file. Provide the local path as *storage/emulated/0/Download*.

   Note: For OS 11 and above the local file path will be ignored and the file is stored in the MDM app’s internal storage instead.

   
3. After saving the policy, associate it with the desired device or group to deploy the update.

Steps to follow on the Device:

1. The ME MDM app downloads the firmware file to the device. You can monitor the download progress via device notifications.
   • For devices running OS 11 and above, the firmware saves to the MDM app’s internal storage.
   • For OS 10 and below, it saves to the server-specified location.
2. Then, the device transfers the firmware file from the MDM app’s storage (or downloaded location) to the Android OS update partition. This may take longer for large files.
3. Once the transfer completes, the device reboots automatically to finalise the update.