Should Your Business Upgrade to the New Microsoft Intune Suite?
Over the last two decades, endpoint management has undergone a radical transformation. Gone are the days when companies housed all their endpoints in one location, simplifying management but limiting mobility and flexibility. Today, offices span the globe, with remote teams working from diverse locations, often relying on mobile devices for daily tasks. In this era, where 60% of enterprise endpoints are mobile devices handling 80% of the workload, the need for a robust endpoint device management solution has become imperative.
Microsoft Intune Suite: A Comprehensive Solution
What is Microsoft Intune Suite?
Microsoft Intune is a powerful software tool designed to manage a company's devices and applications seamlessly. Regardless of whether employees use PCs, Macs, smartphones, or tablets, Intune consolidates device management into one unified platform. The latest iteration of Intune, known as Microsoft Intune Suite, bundles various aspects of endpoint management into a single, cloud-based solution.
Core Capabilities of Microsoft Intune
The core capabilities of Microsoft Intune include:
Cross-platform Endpoint Management: Supporting a variety of devices, including PCs, Macs, smartphones, and tablets.
Built-in Endpoint Security: Providing essential security features to safeguard devices and data.
Mobile Application Management: Streamlining the deployment, update, and retirement of applications across all devices.
Endpoint Analytics: Offering insights into device performance and usage patterns.
Microsoft Configuration Manager: Integrating with Microsoft's configuration management tool.
Subscription Options
Microsoft Intune Suite introduces new subscription options, including:
Microsoft Intune Plan 1: Core capabilities included with various subscriptions (Microsoft 365 E3, E5, F1, and F3; Enterprise Mobility + Security E3 and E5; and Business Premium plans).
Microsoft Intune Plan 2: An add-on to Plan 1, offering advanced endpoint management capabilities.
Microsoft Intune Suite: An add-on to Plan 1, including Plan 2 features, Microsoft Intune Remote Help, Endpoint Privilege Management, Microsoft Tunnel for Mobile Application Management, management of specialty devices, and select advanced endpoint analytics features.
Advantages of Subscribing to Microsoft Intune Suite
Streamlined Device Management
Managing diverse devices can be chaotic, but Intune Suite brings order with a centralized dashboard. It allows for comprehensive control over devices, enabling the setup of policies and enforcement of security measures. Compatible with both Windows and macOS, it eliminates worries about compatibility issues.
Secure Helpdesk Support
The suite includes Microsoft Intune Remote Help, facilitating simple and secure assistance to teams anywhere, anytime. Embracing a Zero Trust security model, it ensures a fast response to issues, addressing device roadblocks for employees working from various locations.
Enhanced Security and Compliance
Security is a top priority, and Intune offers advanced features such as robust encryption, secure access controls, and the ability to quarantine risky devices. For businesses dealing with sensitive information or compliance requirements, Intune provides auditing and reporting capabilities.
App Management Made Easy
Recognizing the importance of applications, Intune simplifies app management. It allows for easy deployment, updating, and retirement of applications across all devices, keeping teams organized and on the same page.
BYOD-Friendly
In a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) era, Intune proves to be a game-changer. It facilitates the separation of personal and corporate data on employee devices, ensuring the security of sensitive company information. The inclusion of Microsoft Tunnel for Mobile App Management offers a lightweight VPN solution for secure access to corporate resources from personal iOS and Android devices without device enrollment.
Scalability and Cost-Effectiveness
As businesses grow, so do their tech needs. Intune seamlessly scales to accommodate new devices and users. Operating on a subscription-based model, it eliminates hefty upfront costs, offering a predictable monthly fee aligned with business requirements.
Factors to Consider
Learning Curve
While the advantages are compelling, there might be a learning curve for teams accustomed to different management solutions. Adequate training and support can smooth the transition.
Legacy Systems
Businesses reliant on legacy systems or a significant number of on-premises servers need to assess the effort required for integrating Intune into their existing setup. Understanding the current infrastructure and compatibility requirements is essential.
Conclusion: Elevating Security and Operations
Upgrading to the new Microsoft Intune Suite represents a potential game-changer for businesses aiming to enhance security and streamline operations. However, careful evaluation of specific needs is crucial. Professional guidance can assist in making informed decisions aligned with unique business goals. To explore the possibilities and determine the right path for your business, consider scheduling a consultation with us today.
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
