configuration profile (CP)

A configuration profile (CP) is an XML file that an IT administrator can use to customize settings on an end user's Apple iOS or Mac OS X device.

CPs allow administrators to enforce security measures, such as mobile device passcode requirements, and restrict user access to certain device features, such as the camera and iCloud. Configuration profiles also provide administrators with control over network connectivity settings. 

Administrators can create a configuration profile manually or use Apple Configurator, The XML files can be delivered to a specific device as an email attachment, as a website download, as an over-the-air update or with a USB connection using Apple Configurator.