How to effectively manage hybrid connected devices with Microsoft Intune?
By implementing hybrid-connected devices in Microsoft Entra, one of our clients gained a number of improvements, including easier configuration of new devices, the ability to grant permissions to local resources, and integration with external solutions.
To achieve this, it was necessary to set up a local Active Directory environment and connect it to Microsoft Intune. The client was primarily concerned with efficient access management to local resources. It was also important to be able to remotely lock or wipe the computer if necessary.
Additionally, the implementation gave our client greater configuration options in Microsoft 365 – including access to the EDR system, which we described in this article.
Environment Configuration
To implement this solution, we first had to configure Entra Connect, a tool that connects the on-premises environment to the cloud. An Active Directory domain was instrumental in the implementation. First, we configured user account synchronization using Password Hash Synchronization (PAS). This allows users to log in with a single password—both on-premises and in the cloud.
Next, using a so-called connection point (SCP), the forest and authentication method were defined on the Entra ID side. This allowed computers added to the local Active Directory to synchronize directly with Entra ID.
For everything to work correctly, you still need to configure the appropriate Group Policy Management policy. This will automatically register domain-joined computers as Azure Active Directory devices in the background.
The next step is to enable automatic enrollment in the MDM service, previously configured in Microsoft Intune, using user credentials. The entire process is automatic, without the need for any third-party intervention.
What did the customer gain?
By enabling these features, a fully integrated environment is created. When a user logs in to a computer using a domain account, their device is automatically registered with Microsoft Intune.
By implementing hybrid-joined devices in Microsoft Intune, users can log in with a single account and automatically access cloud resources (Single Sign-On).
The client now has the ability to manage devices through both Group Policy and Microsoft Intune configuration policies. This allows, among other things, checking whether computers are encrypted, enforcing encryption, ensuring antivirus software is properly updated, and installing selected apps compliant with company standards. Furthermore, users no longer need to constantly use a VPN. Everyone has access to Microsoft tools such as OneDrive, SharePoint, and Teams, as well as local resources, all within a single profile.
Summary – what we have achieved:
- Users log in seamlessly.
- Devices can be managed centrally from a single location.
- Customer data is better protected – increased control and security.
- Users have access to cloud and local resources within a single profile.
- The need for VPN use is reduced.
Finally, we tested the correctness of the device configuration.
The implemented solution not only improved security but also sped up the configuration process.
Microsoft Intune provides features that are crucial today if a company wants to comply with applicable standards and regulations, such as ISO and GDPR.
If your company is considering modernizing its computer management system, we're happy to help! Contact us.
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What IT solutions do we use at Support Online?
When is it worth using an IT company?
Why is it worth hiring an IT company rather than a freelance IT specialist?
What are the advantages of working with IT Support Online?
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It's worth using an IT company like Support Online when:
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