Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Policy Best Practices

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Updated: 10/02/2024 - 7:00
Time to read: 7 minutes

A bring your own device policy (BYOD) allows employees to use their own personal devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets, for work-related activities.

The policy will need to define what acceptable use of personal devices for work activities looks like. For example, it’ll need to define which employees are allowed to access from a personal device.

Security measures will need to be strictly adhered to in order to keep both work assets and personal devices safe from cyberattack. A BYOD policy will also determine personal and employer privacy rights and who owns what.

A BYOD policy can offer convenience and be more cost-effective, but it can also raise security concerns. BYOD is a policy that can be adopted safely and embraced for a more mobile-friendly workplace.

Understanding bring your own device (BYOD) policy

A bring your own device (BYOD) policy involves setting the parameters for employees using personal devices for work. This can include sending emails, accessing applications, using software, and being on and in the company’s secure network to access data and information.

It is imperative then that the BYOD policy be clearly defined and understood by both parties. The policy should be formally written out.

A BYOD policy should include the following:

  • Scope of the policy: This defines which devices are permitted and who is allowed to use them.  
  • Device protocols: This outlines if specific software needs to be installed onto the device and requires current and up-to-date anti-virus software. Mobile device management (MDM) software can be installed on personal devices to keep company-related information all in one secure space on the device, which is then password-protected. Devices under the BYOD should not be synchronised with other personal devices, access insecure internet sites, or be modified without approval from the IT department.
  • Authorised use of device(s): This involves details on how, when, and where the device can be used and what uses are prohibited. This can include limiting personal use during work hours and requiring authorisation for accessing work-related information outside of work hours.  
  • Employee and employer pri