What is Microsoft Intune?

Microsoft Intune: definition

Intune is Microsoft’s solution for endpoint management and runs as a cloud service, so the company does not have to operate its own management servers. It belongs to the Microsoft family around Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Entra ID and is now usually the foundation when devices are managed in a “modern” way.

Technically, devices enroll with Intune. They then receive configuration profiles, apps and rules from the cloud. Through its integration with Entra ID, it can also ensure that only devices that meet the requirements may access company data—an important building block of the zero-trust approach.

Features at a glance

Intune covers tasks that used to require several tools. It manages not only Windows PCs but also macOS and smartphones and tablets running iOS, iPadOS and Android. Depending on device type and ownership model, different functions are available: on company devices, control is comprehensive; on personal devices, it is limited to a protected work area.

• Configuration profiles for Wi-Fi, VPN, email and restrictions
• Distribution and updating of apps
• Compliance policies, such as encryption, PIN and a minimum operating system version
• Conditional access in combination with Microsoft Entra ID
• Scheduled Windows updates
• Remotely locking and resetting lost devices

Real-world example: fitters with tablets

A building-services company equips 30 fitters with tablets and smartphones. Previously, an employee set up each device at a desk, and updates were skipped because nobody triggered them. There was also no control over which apps ended up on the devices and what data was stored there.

With Intune, devices are enrolled automatically when first switched on and receive the job app, email and VPN access. Encryption and a PIN are mandatory. If a tablet is lost on a construction site, the office manager locks it remotely and wipes the company data before it can fall into the wrong hands.

Requirements, benefits and limits

Intune is included in various Microsoft license packages, such as Microsoft 365 Business Premium and enterprise plans, and can be licensed separately if needed. The benefits are operation without your own servers, uniform management of many platforms, fast rollouts and tight integration with Microsoft 365 and Entra ID.

Limits: getting started requires planning, because incorrectly set policies can lock users out or block functions. The sheer number of settings is overwhelming without experience. For personal devices, data protection and, where applicable, works council co-determination must be clarified. Tests with a pilot group prevent nasty surprises.

Imple­menta­tion in your company

A step-by-step approach makes sense: first record devices and set baseline policies, then apps and updates, and access rules last. Nano Concepts sets up Intune, combines it with Windows Autopilot and accompanies rollouts including ongoing support. We make sure that security and usability fit together in everyday work.