Basics of Intune
What is Intune?
Microsoft Intune is a cloud solution for mobile device management (MDM - Mobile Device Management) and mobile application management (MAM - Mobile Application Management). It allows companies to remotely manage workstations, laptops, phones, and tablets, whether they are personal (BYOD) or company-owned.
With Intune, you can:
- Deploy configurations (Wi-Fi, VPN, restrictions, etc.).
- Push applications (Win32, MSI, store apps).
- Apply security policies.
- Manage Windows Update policies, define rings, and control updates.
- Ensure device compliance through rules.
Intune integrates closely with Azure Active Directory and Microsoft 365, making it a key component of Microsoft's modern management strategy.
Key Takeaway
Intune is a cloud solution for device and application management, ideal for modern environments and BYOD strategies.
What is Windows Autopilot?
Windows Autopilot is a feature complementary to Intune that allows you to prepare and automatically deploy Windows devices without using a traditional image.
Specifically:
- The new device must first be enrolled in the Windows Autopilot service (via a script or by the OEM).
- An Autopilot profile is assigned to the device in Intune.
- The technician activates the White Glove mode by pressing the Windows key 5 times, then selects "Provision with Windows Autopilot" to prepare the device for use.
- The device is ready to use in just a few simple steps.
Autopilot transforms the deployment process into a seamless user experience while reducing the burden on IT teams.
Key Takeaway
Autopilot automates Windows deployment but requires prior device registration and profile assignment. It can be used for self-deployment or pre-provisioned by IT before delivery.
What is the difference between Intune and System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM)?
System Center Configuration Manager (formerly SCCM, now MECM) is an older on-premise solution often used in traditional environments to manage Windows devices (inventory, OS deployment, patching, etc.).
Microsoft Intune, on the other hand, is 100% cloud-based, focused on mobility and modern management.
| Solution | SCCM | Intune |
|---|---|---|
| Infrastructure | On-premise | Cloud |
| OS Deployment | Strong | Limited (via Autopilot) |
| Scope | Primarily Windows | Multi-platform (iOS, Android, macOS, Windows) |
| BYOD Scenarios | Limited | Strongly supported |
Today, both can coexist via Microsoft Endpoint Manager, which unifies their management in a single hybrid console.
Key Takeaway
SCCM is on-premise, Intune is cloud-based. They can be used together via Microsoft Endpoint Manager to leverage the best of both worlds.