How to Set Up Work Profile on Android Device?

BYOD is on the rise, and with Android holding 72.04% of the mobile OS market in Q4 2024 ^[1], it remains the top choice for employees using personal devices for work. Setting up a work profile on Android keeps corporate data separate from personal apps. Organizations simplify this with a UEM solution, ensuring secure access and seamless management.

Let’s learn how to set up a work profile on Android using Scalefusion UEM solution with a step-by-step guide for a secure configuration.

Why set up an Android Enterprise work profile?

A work profile keeps business and personal data separate for companies implementing BYOD, ensuring security without invading privacy.

• Easier IT management – Admins can remotely install work apps, apply policies, and track devices (if required) without touching personal content.
• Stronger security – Work apps stay encrypted, and IT can enforce passwords, push updates, and wipe only corporate data if needed. This prevents unauthorized access without affecting personal use.
• Maintains privacy – Employees keep full control over their personal apps and data. IT can’t see messages, photos, or browsing history—only the work profile is managed.

A work profile keeps business data safe while letting employees use their devices freely. Now, let’s go over the prerequisites.

Prerequisites to create a work profile on Android smartphone

IT admins can create work profiles and apply them to managed devices only when the following requirements are met: 

• The device runs Android 6.0 or above.
• It is not corporate-managed.
• A UEM solution with BYOD management is in place.
• The device is enrolled in the organization’s BYOD policy.
• It has an active internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
• The employee has access to their corporate email to activate the work profile.

How to set up a work profile on Android devices using Scalefusion UEM?

Scalefusion’s Android BYOD management helps IT admins configure and enable work profiles on Android. Let us look at the steps on how to set up a work profile on Android devices.

A) Admin setup: Scalefusion dashboard

IT admins can create a work profile on Android devices through the following steps:

Step 1: Log in to the Scalefusion dashboard.

Step 2:  Navigate to the Enrollment Configuration tab on the Scalefusion dashboard and click on QR Code Configurations. A Device Enrollment Configurations window will appear. Click on Create Config to open the configuration creator window.

Step 3: A Create Device Enrollment Configuration dialog box appears. It will enable IT admins to configure work profile settings for Android devices. This dialog box is divided into four sections:

• Basic: Use this section to set the configuration name, choose enrollment type, and define a device naming convention. Click Next.

• Group/Profile: Select the Android device profile or user groups that you want to apply to the work profile, then click Next.

• Device configuration: Choose whether to enable users to enter a device name and custom property values. Click Next.

• Optional settings: Select a license for devices that you will enroll using this configuration. Then, configure any additional enrollment settings that you require. Click Save once you are done.

Step 4: Click on Invite Users.

Step 5: Configure the email template and select the users you want to invite. Click on SEND.

B) Employee setup: On device

When the end-users/employees receive the email, they need to follow the steps given below to create a work profile on their Android devices.

1. Install Scalefusion from the Google Play Store on the device.
2. Scan the QR code sent by the IT admin or select to sign in via email. 
3. Enter the details received in the email. 
4. Once the details are verified, click Create Work Profile.
5. Give all permissions to Scalefusion to install apps from the managed Google Play Store and set work app passwords and user access.
6. Scalefusion work profile is ready.
7. The work profile apps will have a blue briefcase sign on the device.

This activates the work profile on Android devices. 

Opt Scalefusion UEM for Android work profile management

Setting up a work profile is just the start. Managing it effectively is what keeps corporate data secure and employee privacy intact. With Scalefusion Android MDM solution, IT admins get complete control over work apps, security policies, and compliance settings without interfering with personal data. Simplify BYOD management and improve security.

Reference:

1. Statista

FAQs

1. How do I enable a work profile on Android?

Setting up a work profile usually requires your IT department to initiate the process. Using a UEM solution, they push the necessary configurations to your device. You’ll receive instructions to complete the setup, which may involve scanning a QR code, entering credentials, or granting permissions.

2. Why can’t I create a work profile on my Android device?

If you’re unable to create a work profile, here are some possible reasons:

• Missing UEM –Your IT department might use a UEM solution to set up work profiles. Check with them if you need to install an app first.
• Incorrect account – Ensure you’re using the correct work account during enrollment.
• Low storage – Insufficient storage can block profile creation. Free up space and try again.
• Existing profile – Only one work profile can exist per device.

If none of these apply, it’s best to consult your IT department for further troubleshooting.