Introduction to Endpoint ManagementMicrosoft Intune Architecture

Microsoft Intune Architecture

25 mins

Understanding the Concept

Microsoft Intune is a cloud-based unified endpoint management (UEM) service that is part of Microsoft Endpoint Manager. It manages mobile devices (iOS, Android), desktop devices (Windows, macOS), and applications across the organization. Intune integrates with Azure Active Directory for identity, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint for security, and Microsoft 365 apps for productivity.

The Intune architecture consists of several key components: the Intune service (cloud), the Intune admin center (portal), managed devices (enrolled endpoints), and connectors (for on-premises integration). Communication between devices and Intune happens over HTTPS using the MDM (Mobile Device Management) and MAM (Mobile Application Management) protocols.

Intune supports multiple enrollment types: MDM enrollment for full device management, MAM-only enrollment for app-level management without device enrollment (ideal for BYOD), and Windows Autopilot for zero-touch provisioning of new devices.

Key Points

  • Intune is a cloud-based UEM service in Microsoft Endpoint Manager
  • Manages Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux devices
  • MDM enrollment: full device management and control
  • MAM-only enrollment: app-level protection without device enrollment
  • Integrates with Azure AD, Defender for Endpoint, and M365 apps
  • Communication via HTTPS - no VPN or on-prem infrastructure needed

Intune Architecture Overview

Step 1

Admin Portal

Intune admin center for configuration

Step 2

Intune Service

Cloud service processes policies

Step 3

Azure AD

Identity and device registration

Step 4

Managed Devices

Endpoints receive policies via HTTPS

Step 5

Defender

Security integration and compliance

Why This Matters in Real Organizations

Understanding Intune architecture is essential for proper planning and troubleshooting. Knowing how devices communicate with the service, how policies are delivered, and how identity integration works prevents misconfiguration and ensures reliable device management.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Confusing MDM and MAM enrollment types and their capabilities
Not understanding that Intune requires Azure AD - it doesn't work with on-premises AD alone
Overlooking network requirements for device-to-service communication
Not planning for the different management capabilities across platforms (Windows vs iOS vs Android)

Interview Tips

  • Describe the Intune architecture and how devices communicate with the service
  • Explain the difference between MDM and MAM enrollment
  • Discuss platform-specific management capabilities and limitations

Exam Tips (MD-102)

  • Know the Intune architecture components and their roles
  • Understand MDM vs MAM enrollment and when to use each
  • Be familiar with platform support and feature differences across OS types

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