Apple Device Enrollment Program?

[ajf]

Does anyone here use the Apple Device Enrollment Program to deploy iPhones?
I am getting a bit lost as to how it works.

Does the DEP simply allow for the activation of the handset, or work as an MDM as well?
Can you use the DEP to push free apps to selected handsets, or just purchased apps?
It also looks like it works via the carrier as well?
Does this mean the devices that are sent are simply powered on and are activated automatically with no user input?
Does DEP require any software installing to manage devices?
If so is it only Mac compatible or Windows as well?

I assume then they have no Apple IDs assigned?
How does this work regards iCloud backups etc?

We are looking at deploying around 80 handsets. Simply require some sort of automated/central activation and the ability to push updates and/or occasional free app to selected phones when needed.
Probably also look at basic management like force device PIN, restrict app installs etc.

 

[ajf]

Thanks for the replies.
Still looking into this.
With the DEP the thing I cannot get my head around, is what does it do regards the app store for each device?
By using DEP are we restricting this so any apps HAVE to be pushed to the handset or can the users still install ones they want?

I am starting to wonder whether it might just be better to set up iTunes accounts for all the users and activate them that way rather than centrally as we still want to give the users flexibility to install apps as required.
Primary requirement really is to be able to lock and wipe device if it gets lost, stolen or the person leaves.

Main issue with DEP is you cannot just try it out as it requires registering with the carrier and Apple.