Should Your Business Upgrade to the New Microsoft Intune Suite?

Endpoint management has changed a lot over the last two decades. There was a time when companies housed all endpoints in the same place. This made managing them simpler. But it held offices back from being mobile and flexible.

Today’s office can include endpoints around the globe. Remote teams can work from anywhere and people often prefer doing things from their mobile devices, such as checking email or managing tasks. The Microsoft Intune Suite is integrated with Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Security across endpoint platforms for both cloud and on-premises co-managed devices. This makes it easy for IT teams to manage and secure all of their endpoints from a single place.

The average enterprise endpoint makeup is 60% mobile devices. And it’s estimated that they handle about 80% of the workload. What does this mean for security? That an endpoint device management solution has become a necessity. One that might be on your radar is the new Microsoft Intune Suite. It bundles several areas of endpoint management into a single platform.

Wondering whether it’s worth taking the plunge and upgrading? Stick around as we break down the what, why, and how of this cloud-based management solution.

What is Microsoft Intune Suite?

First things first, what is Microsoft Intune? It’s a software tool that helps you manage your company’s devices and apps all in one place. Whether your employees use PCs, Macs, smartphones, or tablets, Intune’s got your back. So, what’s the deal with the upgrade? Microsoft has been hard at work improving Intune. The latest version brings some exciting new features to the table.

The core capabilities of Microsoft Intune include:

• Cross-platform endpoint management
• Built-in endpoint security
• Mobile application management
• Endpoint analytics
• Microsoft Configuration Manager

Here’s a comparison of the subscription options you now have with Intune:

• Microsoft Intune Plan 1: Microsoft Intune core capabilities are 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 Microsoft Intune Plan 1. It offers advanced endpoint management capabilities.
• Microsoft Intune Suite: An add-on to Microsoft Intune Plan 1. Includes:
  • Plan 2 features
  • Microsoft Intune Remote Help
  • Microsoft Intune Endpoint Privilege Management
  • Microsoft Tunnel for Mobile Application Management
  • Management of specialty devices
  • Select Microsoft Intune advanced endpoint analytics features.

Advantages of Subscribing to the Intune Suite

If you’re contemplating whether to subscribe to or upgrade to the Microsoft Intune Suite, there are several key advantages to consider. Before making your decision, let’s explore the benefits of opting for this comprehensive suite:

1. Streamlined Device Management – Managing devices within a business can often be a complex and chaotic task. With the Microsoft Intune Suite, you gain access to a centralized dashboard that empowers you with full control over your devices. You can establish policies and enforce security measures, and in the event of a security breach, you can remotely wipe data. What’s more, this solution is compatible with both Windows and macOS, eliminating compatibility concerns.

2. Secure Helpdesk Support – Productivity is crucial, and Microsoft Intune Suite offers Microsoft Intune Remote Help as part of its feature set. This feature allows you to provide simple and secure help to your team whenever and wherever they need it. It adheres to a Zero Trust security model and facilitates swift issue resolution, ensuring that you can address device-related obstacles, no matter where your team is operating.

3. Enhanced Security and Compliance – In an age of data breaches and cyberattacks, security is paramount. Microsoft Intune offers advanced security features, including robust encryption and secure access controls. It even allows you to quarantine risky devices. If your business deals with sensitive information or has specific compliance requirements, Intune has you covered with its auditing and reporting capabilities.

4. Streamlined App Management – Applications are the backbone of modern businesses, and Intune understands this well. With its app management features, you can easily deploy, update, and retire applications across all devices. Intune ensures that everyone remains organized and on the same page, whether your team is using Microsoft 365 apps or third-party software.

5. BYOD-Friendly – Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies have gained popularity in the corporate world. If your company embraces BYOD, Microsoft Intune can be a game-changer. It allows you to separate personal and corporate data on employee devices, safeguarding sensitive company information. The Intune Suite includes Microsoft Tunnel for Mobile App Management, a lightweight VPN solution that connects corporate resources from personal iOS and Android devices without requiring device enrollment. This offers employees quick and secure access to company resources when needed.

6. Scalability and Cost-Effectiveness – As your business expands, so do your technology needs. Fortunately, Microsoft Intune effortlessly scales to accommodate new devices and users without any hassle. It operates on a subscription-based model, ensuring you only pay for what you need, eliminating hefty upfront costs in favor of a predictable monthly fee.

Points to Consider

While the Microsoft Intune Suite offers compelling benefits, there are some aspects you need to consider:

1. Learning Curve – If your team is accustomed to a different management solution, there may be a learning curve when transitioning to Intune. However, support and training resources are available to facilitate a smooth transition. Don’t have an IT team? Need help implementing Intune? No problem! Dark Blue Technologies can help.

2. Legacy Systems – If your business relies on legacy systems or operates numerous on-premises servers, integrating Intune into your existing infrastructure may require extra effort. Before making the shift, it’s essential to evaluate your current setup and compatibility requirements thoroughly.

Upgrading to the Microsoft Intune Suite can significantly enhance the security and efficiency of your business operations. However, it’s crucial to assess your unique business needs and circumstances carefully. We can provide guidance and support to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your specific business objectives. Contact us today to discuss your move to Intune.