Glossary
Configuration Profile
A configuration profile is an XML property list (.mobileconfig) that delivers settings, restrictions and certificates to Apple devices.
A configuration profile is a file, usually with the .mobileconfig extension, that applies settings to macOS, iOS and other Apple platforms. It is an XML property list containing one or more payloads. Each payload has a type that identifies what it configures, such as Wi-Fi, VPN, certificates, the firewall, privacy permissions or FileVault, along with identifiers like PayloadIdentifier and PayloadUUID that let the system track and replace it.
Profiles can be installed manually, in which case the user must approve them in System Settings, or delivered through MDM. Many security-relevant payloads are only honored when they come from MDM, and some require a supervised or user-approved enrollment. Profiles can be signed so the device can verify who issued them and detect tampering.
On a Mac, the profiles command lists installed profiles and reports enrollment status, which helps confirm that expected policy is actually present. Configuration profiles remain central to Mac management, alongside the newer Declarative Device Management model.
Read the MDM and configuration profiles guide for structure and deployment tips.