Microsoft Mobile Device Management: How to Use Intune

Managing mobile devices across a growing and remote workforce is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. But with so many platforms, security risks, and expectations from end users, traditional tools like Active Directory and Group Policy just aren’t cutting it anymore.

Microsoft Intune is a modern, cloud-first mobile device management (MDM) and endpoint solution designed to support today’s IT realities, BYOD, cross-platform environments, remote work, and beyond.

What is Mobile Device Management (MDM)?

Mobile Device Management (MDM) is the practice of centrally managing and securing mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops across an organization. 

A Quick Look Back: The Evolution of Mobile Device Management

For years, on-prem tools like Active Directory and Group Policy Objects (GPOs) were the gold standard. But as workforces became more mobile and hybrid, IT teams needed more flexibility and efficiency.

This led to tools like System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM), which offered better application and policy control—but was still rooted in on-prem infrastructure.

Now, with the explosion of remote work and cloud adoption (especially post-2020), businesses need a tool that works from anywhere, on any device. That’s where Microsoft Intune stands out.

What Is Microsoft Intune?

Microsoft Intune is a cloud-based service that provides Mobile Device Management (MDM) and Mobile Application Management (MAM). It enables IT teams to manage and secure devices across Windows, iOS/iPadOS, macOS, Android, Chrome OS, and even Linux—all from a single console.

Whether you're provisioning new laptops for remote employees or securing corporate data on personal smartphones, Intune is built for flexibility, scale, and control.

Why Mobile Device Management Matters in 2025

As of 2023, over 92% of remote workers use a personal device to access corporate resources (The State of Remote Work Security | Lookout | 2023). Without a reliable MDM strategy, you're opening the door to security risks, data leaks, and compliance issues.

Mobile Device Management lets you:

• • Push apps and updates remotely
  • Set security baselines (e.g., BitLocker, antivirus, firewalls)
  • Remotely wipe, lock, or reset devices
  • Separate corporate from personal data on BYOD devices
  • Maintain compliance through Conditional Access

How to Use Intune for Microsoft Mobile Device Management

Intune shines by offering practical tools that save time and boost security. Here are the core ways IT teams use it every day:

1. Autopilot for Zero-Touch Provisioning

Set up and configure new devices without IT needing to touch them. With Autopilot, users get a branded, fully configured device just by logging in. For every 500 devices, Autopilot could save about two work weeks of IT time.  This allows you to save hours per laptop, improve onboarding speed, and eliminate manual imaging.

2. Mass App Deployment

Push apps—EXEs, MSIs, Microsoft Store, iOS, Android—across users and groups. Define install conditions, create self-service options, and set dependencies or logic.

3. Security & Compliance

Set and enforce security baselines (BitLocker, Defender for Endpoint, LAPS) and manage policies through Conditional Access. Ensure only compliant devices can access sensitive resources.

4. Dynamic Device Grouping

Segment devices by department, location, or function for granular policy and app deployment. Create a custom experience for HR, Finance, Sales, and more—automatically.

5. BYOD Control with App Protection

Manage how data is used—not the personal device itself. App Protection Policies let you control access to Outlook, SharePoint, and Teams on personal phones without invading privacy.

Intune Use Cases: Real-World Scenarios

Common MDM Pitfalls to Watch For

Even powerful tools like Intune have a learning curve. Common issues we see include:

• • Large app deployments (e.g., AutoCAD) take time—be patient
  • Improper dynamic grouping can lead to policy conflicts
  • Misconfigured Conditional Access can block legitimate users
  • App packaging (EXE to Intune format) requires attention to detail
    

However, with the right Intune setup and guidance, these can be avoided or easily fixed.

Takeaway

With more employees working remotely or on-the-go, Mobile Device Management has evolved from a nice-to-have to a must-have. Microsoft Intune offers unmatched flexibility, security, and scalability for IT teams navigating today’s hybrid and mobile work landscape. Whether you're managing five devices or 5,000, the key is doing it right from the start.

Want expert help setting up Intune? Check out our Intune Implementation Services and see how we can deploy Intune fast—securely and with full support.