Centralized Device Management MS365 Intune

1. Prerequisites for Using Intune

Before getting started, ensure you have the following:

• Microsoft Intune License: Available as part of Microsoft 365 Business Premium or Enterprise plans.
• Admin Access: Intune admin or global admin rights in your Microsoft 365 tenant.
• Supported Devices: Ensure the devices (Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android) meet Intune’s system requirements.

2. Configuring Devices Remotely

Intune enables IT admins to configure devices without physical access. Here’s how:

Step 1: Enroll Devices

• Navigate to the Microsoft Intune Admin Center at https://endpoint.microsoft.com.
• Go to Devices → Enroll Devices → Choose the type of enrollment:
  • Windows Autopilot for Windows devices.
  • Apple Business Manager for macOS and iOS devices.
  • Android Enterprise for Android devices.

Step 2: Create Configuration Profiles

• Go to Devices → Configuration Profiles → Create Profile.
• Select the platform (e.g., Windows 10/11, iOS, Android).
• Choose a profile type:
  • Device Restrictions: Block or enable features like USB, camera, or Wi-Fi.
  • Wi-Fi Settings: Pre-configure Wi-Fi networks for end-users.
  • Email Settings: Automatically set up company email accounts.

Step 3: Assign Profiles to Devices or Users

• After creating a profile, assign it to a specific group by:
  • Navigating to the profile.
  • Clicking Assignments → Select the user or device group.

3. Deploying Apps and Updates Seamlessly

Step 1: Add and Configure Apps

• Go to Apps → All Apps → Add.
• Select the app type:
  • Store Apps (Microsoft Store, Apple App Store, Google Play).
  • Line-of-Business Apps (custom internal apps).
• Configure app deployment settings:
  • Install Behavior: Available or required for users.
  • End-User Notifications: Notify users of installation.

Step 2: Assign Apps to Users or Devices

• After adding the app, navigate to Assignments.
• Assign apps to:
  • Specific users (user-based deployment).
  • Devices (device-based deployment).

Step 3: Manage App Updates

• Intune supports automatic app updates for store apps.
• For custom apps, regularly upload the updated version to Intune.

4. Monitoring Compliance Policies

Step 1: Create Compliance Policies

• Go to Devices → Compliance Policies → Create Policy.
• Choose the platform (e.g., Windows, iOS, Android).
• Configure compliance settings:
  • Minimum OS version.
  • Password requirements (e.g., complexity, expiration).
  • Encryption and antivirus requirements.

Step 2: Assign Policies to Groups

• Assign the compliance policy to device or user groups.

Step 3: Monitor Compliance

• Navigate to Reports → Device Compliance.
• View compliance status:
  • Compliant: Devices meeting the policy requirements.
  • Non-Compliant: Devices failing to meet policy requirements.

Step 4: Automate Actions for Non-Compliant Devices

• Set up Conditional Access in Azure Active Directory:
  • Block access to company resources for non-compliant devices.
  • Notify users of non-compliance with remediation instructions.

5. Tips for Effective Centralized Management

• Organize Groups: Use Azure AD to group users and devices logically (e.g., by department or location).
• Leverage Analytics: Use Endpoint Analytics in Intune to identify and resolve performance issues.
• Enable Zero Trust: Combine Intune with Microsoft Defender and Conditional Access for robust security.
• Test Profiles: Pilot new profiles or policies with a small group before organization-wide deployment.

6. Advanced Features to Explore

• Remote Wipe: Securely wipe corporate data from lost or stolen devices.
• Shared Device Management: Configure devices shared by multiple users (e.g., kiosks).
• Co-Management: Integrate Intune with Configuration Manager for hybrid environments.