Intune vs Autopilot: What’s the Difference?

Onboarding a device shouldn’t feel like defusing a bomb. But when every manual step adds time, risk, and frustration, it can start to feel that way.

Intune and Autopilot promise to turn this chaos into simplicity. The question is—what’s the difference, and how can they fit into your IT strategy? 

We’ll break it down, step by step.

Key Takeaways

Let’s make sense of Microsoft Intune, Windows Autopilot, and how they can work together. No fluff, just the highlights to help you decide what’s best for your IT setup.

Microsoft Intune

1. One dashboard to rule them all: Manage desktops, mobile devices, and apps like a pro with unified endpoint management. No more hopping between tools.
2. Manage from anywhere: Whether you’re on the couch or in the server room, cloud device management keeps you in control.
3. Shield your data: Conditional access keeps unauthorized users out. 
4. Bring your own device (BYOD), but securely: Employees’ devices, your policies. Get the lowdown on what is BYOD.
5. Plays well with others: Integrates smoothly with Microsoft 365 and Azure AD, making it a team player in any setup.

Windows Autopilot

1. Deployment without the drama: Set up devices straight out of the box with zero-touch enrollment. IT teams will thank you.
2. Personalized setups: Every user gets a device configured just for them. No one-size-fits-all nonsense.
3. Less grunt work: Automate the tedious stuff. Save your IT team’s time for more interesting challenges.
4. Compliance on autopilot: Devices are ready to meet corporate policies from day one. 
5. Built for teamwork: Hand devices off to Intune for smooth ongoing management with tools like MDM.

Differences and Use Together

1. Different strengths, same mission: Autopilot is all about deployment. Intune takes over for management.
2. Dynamic duo: Use Autopilot for setup, then let Intune run the show for the long haul.
3. Cost cheat sheet: Autopilot comes with Windows, while Intune needs a license. Get the details on Intune pricing.
4. Ease vs. depth: Autopilot is simple and fast. Intune digs deeper for complex IT needs.
5. Why pick one? Combine them for seamless deployment and management. See how Intune compares to JumpCloud.

Curious how these tools actually work? Let’s break it down further. This is where the fun begins.

Overview of Microsoft Autopilot

Setting up devices shouldn’t feel like rocket science. Microsoft Autopilot changes the game by automating the process and saving your IT team hours of work.

What makes Autopilot stand out? It lets you pre-configure devices straight from the factory. Employees unpack them, sign in, and boom—they’re ready to work. No IT involvement is needed onsite.

Here’s the scoop:

• Zero-touch enrollment: No headaches for IT; users sign in, and Autopilot takes care of the setup. Learn more about zero-touch deployment.
• Custom configurations: Devices are preloaded with apps and policies tailored to specific job roles.
• Seamless integration: Works hand-in-hand with Azure AD and Microsoft 365.
• Simplified compliance: Ensures devices meet security and regulatory standards out of the box.
• Flexible management: Pair it with MDM for ongoing control.

Autopilot simplifies large-scale device rollouts, especially for hybrid and remote teams. It’s like having an invisible IT team working behind the scenes. Combine it with tools like system insights to keep your IT environment running like a well-oiled machine.

Overview of Microsoft Intune

Managing devices after deployment can get messy fast. That’s where Microsoft Intune steps in. It’s your one-stop solution for keeping devices, apps, and data in check.

Intune works across platforms and gives IT teams a bird’s-eye view of their entire ecosystem. From enforcing security policies to managing apps, Intune ensures everything runs smoothly.

Here’s what makes it shine:

• BYOD-friendly: Manage personal and corporate devices without breaking a sweat. Discover more about BYOD management.
• Multi-platform support: Handles Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.
• Conditional access: Protect sensitive company data with dynamic access controls. Learn about conditional access.
• Security and compliance: Keep devices secure with features like encryption and advanced patch management.
• Streamlined workflows: Deploy apps and updates with ease while monitoring usage through system insights.

Intune isn’t just a management tool; it’s a lifeline for IT teams juggling multiple devices. Pair it with cloud device management to create a powerful, centralized IT ecosystem.

Understanding Autopilot and Intune Device Management Capabilities

Device management can feel overwhelming. But Microsoft Autopilot and Intune aim to make it simpler, faster, and more secure. Let’s dive into what they bring to the table.

Device Setup and Configuration

Think of Autopilot as your setup wizard. Devices come pre-configured, so employees can unpack, log in, and get started. IT doesn’t even have to touch them.

Intune takes over post-deployment. It handles updates, app installations, and user-specific configurations. No back-and-forth needed.

Want to know how these tools can make your life easier? Check out modernized device management.

Security Features and Compliance

Security isn’t optional anymore. Autopilot sets up devices with built-in encryption and pre-approved security policies. It ensures compliance from day one.

Intune adds more layers. Think conditional access, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and real-time threat detection. These features protect sensitive data without slowing your team down. 

Integration with Other Tools

Autopilot and Intune shine when they team up with other platforms. Autopilot works seamlessly with Azure AD and Microsoft 365 for smooth onboarding.

Intune plays well with others too. It integrates with Okta, Google Workspace, and more. That means fewer headaches for IT teams managing hybrid setups. Curious about smoother integrations? See how it all connects.

With these two tools in your arsenal, managing devices feels less like a chore and more like a breeze. Want even more control? Add advanced deployment options to the mix.

Use JumpCloud MDM to secure every device that accesses your resources.

Learn How

How Microsoft Autopilot and Intune Work Together

Managing devices gets even better when Autopilot and Intune team up. They complement each other perfectly, like two puzzle pieces that make the picture clear. Let’s explore how they sync, why they’re better together, and what you can achieve by using both.

Integration Process

Autopilot and Intune are like peanut butter and jelly—great alone but unbeatable together. Autopilot handles the setup, making sure devices are configured and ready to go straight out of the box. Once that’s done, Intune steps in. It takes care of app deployment, updates, and policies.

Here’s the kicker: the two tools sync perfectly with Azure AD. This ensures devices are registered, users are authenticated, and compliance is always on point. 

Advantages of Using Both Tools

Why settle for one when you can have both? Together, Autopilot and Intune deliver:

• Zero-touch deployment for effortless onboarding.
• Real-time monitoring to keep devices secure.
• Unified policies that apply across devices and platforms.

This duo doesn’t just make IT’s life easier—it also boosts employee productivity. Curious about how it fits your team? Explore modern IT solutions.

Differences Between Autopilot and Intune

Sometimes, understanding the contrast between two tools can help you see where they shine—and where they might need a backup. Let’s break it down to make the choice easier.

Primary Roles and Responsibilities

Autopilot is the starting pitcher. It gets devices up and running, no manual setup needed. Intune, on the other hand, is the closer. It manages apps, security policies, and ongoing updates. Each tool has its lane, and they’re both pros at what they do. Dive into more about role clarity.

System Requirements and Compatibility

Autopilot thrives with devices running Windows 10 or 11, paired with Azure AD. Intune is platform-flexible, managing Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. But make sure you’ve got Microsoft 365 in place—it’s the backbone for these tools. Check out compatibility insights for more details.

Cost and Licensing

Autopilot is included in most Microsoft 365 plans, which is a nice bonus. Intune pricing starts at $8 per user per month, but advanced features might cost extra. Balancing costs and features? That’s where TCO calculation comes in handy.

With these tools working hand-in-hand, managing devices becomes less about stress and more about success. If you’re looking for a more streamlined alternative, consider JumpCloud’s solutions.

Is JumpCloud an Autopilot and Intune Alternative?

Absolutely! JumpCloud offers a fresh approach to device deployment and management. It’s designed to give IT teams full control without the complexity. Whether you’re setting up devices or managing security policies, JumpCloud simplifies the process while keeping your team efficient.

Unlike Autopilot and Intune, JumpCloud isn’t tied to just Microsoft. It works across Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Need to manage BYOD setups or enterprise-level compliance? JumpCloud has you covered. 

Here’s what sets JumpCloud apart:

• Unified endpoint management that works on any device.
• Zero-touch enrollment for faster onboarding.
• Built-in tools for patch management and multi-factor authentication.

Want to see JumpCloud in action? Check out Guided Simulations or contact sales and experience the difference.

Need additional help or guidance? Contact the JumpCloud Sales team to discuss your questions about the platform.

Get in Touch

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Autopilot and Intune the Same Thing?

Nope! Autopilot handles device setup, while Intune focuses on ongoing management like apps and policies.

Is Intune Required for Autopilot?

Not necessarily, but pairing them makes deployment and management seamless. 

How Much Does Autopilot Cost?

Autopilot comes included with most Microsoft 365 plans. No extra fees.

How Much Does Intune Cost?

Intune starts at $8 per user per month. Premium features may cost extra.