"Disallow Third Party Application Downloads" policy - yes/no
 

Hi,

i just wanna ask you to share your thoughts if you use these setting in your environment or not. i´m preparing our system (BES 4.0.4 on Domino 6.5.2) for 300+ users.
and i´m not sure what causes more support
#1 "do not allow" -> users will claim why not and keep calling
#2 " allow" maybe the devices could get unstable and it is a security whole

please let me know your opinion :smile:

thanks

herbert

Depends on what industry you are in. For mine the answer is no because of compliance/Sar-Ox. We do have several policies though, and one does allow for downloads if the person is approved. One reason we've had to start unlocking those special cases is for bluetooth driver installs for items such as keyboards. (Yes i said keyboards)

I am with a CPA firm with BB's in the thousands. Unless there is "legal" reason to prevent it, I really suggest you don't. There are so many good reasons to have a variety of programs. RSS newsreaders enchance our client service, BB Weather helps people plan their trips, Cryptmagic stores secure passwords and other data for use on the road, and the list goes on. If you want more info PM me.

Do yourself a favor and turn that policy on, don't let users install third party software. Do you plan on supporting every BlackBerry based application, theme, wallpaper, or ringtone available? You will cause yourself so much more work if users install anything they want. Want proof? Just look around the themes forum and see how often people have problems after loading xyz theme.

I support about 1200+ (and growing) BlackBerry users and this policy has not been a problem except for 3 or 4 users. These users tried to run the issue up the flag pole but it didn't do them any good. Recently we did create a second policy that allowed associated users to install software. But this policy is being limited to application developers and pilot users.

If the users buy their own BlackBerry then the issue becomes a little more complicated. If the company owns the devices, crush them with your network nazi fist!