Windows Endpoint: Microsoft Intune Enrollment for USNH Faculty and Staff

Summary

This article provides information about the computer settings and policy changes you should be aware of while the USNH adopts Microsoft Intune for device deployment and management to approach cloud-based management.

USNH adopted Intune as the new device management tool for institutionally-owned Windows devices as of November 2023.  Other types of devices will be moved to Intune for management in the future.

For the most current version of the Endpoint Management Standard, visit the USNH Cybersecurity Policies & Standards page and look in the “Device Management” section.

 

Content

Microsoft Intune for USNH Staff and Faculty: A Cloud Management Solution

The University System currently manages devices through locally hosted servers across campuses. To support our goal of transitioning device management to a truly cloud-based approach, we are adopting Microsoft Intune for endpoint device deployment and management. This move ensures device security and allows application installations from anywhere. While much of Intune's management is seamless and occurs in the background, there are some changes you may observe, as well as a few computer settings and policy changes you should be aware of: 

 

Applications – Software Center moves to Company Portal

You may be familiar with Software Center on your current device.  This will be replaced with the Company Portal, which should look familiar but has a key difference in that the apps are delivered via the cloud.  You can find Company Portal by searching for it in Search for Windows, and it will look like this:

search for company portal

 

Here we can see the Application page in the Company Portal.  Your portal will be customized to your campus, and by clicking on an application, you will be given the option to download and install that app.

inside the company protal

 

Management and Security

Again, most of what makes Intune a great solution is in the background.  Security and management are most of what Intune encompasses, such as making sure that your hard drive is encrypted and that you have the security settings your device needs to ensure that your data is safe. 

 

Policy Changes

You may notice some settings and policy changes meant to increase the security of your device.  These include:

  • Workstations (desktop or laptop computers) automatically lock after 15 minutes of inactivity.  You will need to type your password to unlock the workstation when you return.
  • Automatic back up and sync to OneDrive of the Photos, Desktop, and Documents folders
  • Cortana is disabled
  • Xbox services are disabled
  • Location services are turned on
  • Personal usage of the OneDrive desktop app is restricted, but personal access is still available online through a web browser or as a linked online storage location

 

Further Readings

USNH Cybersecurity Policies & Standards > Device Management > Endpoint Management Standard

Company Portal: Installing Applications on Intune Managed Workstations - Windows

 

Need additional help?

Visit the Technology Help Desk Support page to locate your local campus contact information or to submit an online technology support request.  For password issues you must call or visit the Help Desk in person.  

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