Modern work depends on laptops, mobile devices and reliable access to cloud applications. It is no longer sufficient for a device to connect to the corporate network: IT teams need visibility into patching, encryption, application deployment and security posture.

Microsoft Intune is a cloud-based platform for endpoint and application management. Combined with Microsoft Entra ID, it can help an organization replace one-off workstation settings with repeatable, centrally managed controls.

What Intune actually manages

Intune can enroll devices, deploy configuration settings, install supported applications and report on device compliance. Policies may cover Windows updates, disk encryption such as BitLocker, device restrictions and security baselines.

These outcomes require planning and supported devices. Having an Intune license does not automatically configure a tenant or guarantee that every security feature is included.

Device management versus app protection

Mobile Device Management (MDM) manages enrolled devices. Mobile Application Management (MAM) focuses on corporate data inside supported apps, including some scenarios involving personal devices without full device enrollment.

The right approach depends on ownership, privacy expectations, operating systems and existing Active Directory or Entra ID configurations.

Device compliance and Conditional Access

Compliance policies report whether a device meets the organization’s requirements. Entra Conditional Access can then use that state to help decide whether access to protected cloud resources should be granted.

Conditional Access licensing and deployment requirements must be reviewed separately. A poorly scoped policy can lock out legitimate users, so pilot groups, exclusions and staged enforcement matter.

A practical first pilot

Start with a device and identity inventory: Windows versions, join types, existing GPO settings, application dependencies, user groups and licenses. Select one or two noncritical test devices.

Create limited compliance, encryption and update policies; deploy an example application; record user experience and operational results. Only then expand to additional groups with a documented rollback plan.

Practical checklist

Document devices, OS versions and join types
Verify Intune and Conditional Access licensing
Create dedicated pilot user and device groups
Validate compliance, BitLocker, update and baseline policies
Test application deployment and user experience
Document exceptions, rollback and phased rollout

Frequently asked questions

Can Intune coexist with on-premises Active Directory?

Yes, subject to the identity and enrollment architecture. Choosing between Entra joined and hybrid joined devices requires deliberate planning.

Does Intune replace endpoint protection?

Not necessarily. Device management and threat protection are separate concerns, with different capabilities and licensing.

Next step: Explore VALUE360 Cloud & Microsoft 365 services.

Microsoft Intune for business: capabilities and a safe pilot rollout