The technical and organizational management of terminal devices is in a transition phase. Traditional models based on on-premise infrastructures and domains are increasingly reaching functional and safety-related limits. Especially in distributed IT environments with a growing number of mobile and externally operated devices, there are new requirements for scalability, automation and access control. In this context, the concept of “cloud-native endpoints” is gaining in importance. It describes a modern approach to managing devices that is entirely based on cloud infrastructures and replaces classic dependencies on local systems.
The most important things in brief
- Cloud-native endpoints are completely managed via the cloud — without local infrastructure.
- Microsoft Intune provides centralized control, security, and automation.
- The Switch reduces complexity, lowers costs and increases scalability.
- Structured migration is crucial for long-term success.
SOFTTAILOR supports the planning, implementation and optimization of cloud-native endpoint strategies — in a practical way, across technologies and tailored to individual IT landscapes.
1. What is a cloud-native endpoint?
A cloud-native endpoint is a device — such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone — that is completely managed and secured via cloud-based services. In contrast to traditional clients, which are integrated into local infrastructures, cloud-native endpoints do not require a direct connection to a company network or classic management servers.
From the outset, these devices are designed to operate in cloud environments. For example, they are provided via automated processes such as Windows Autopilot, authenticate themselves via Entra ID (formerly Azure Active Directory) and receive security and configuration settings via platforms such as Microsoft Intune. Access to corporate resources is usually via single sign-on and in compliance with modern security standards such as conditional access or multi-factor authentication.
Another key feature is independence from traditional domain structures and integration into a modern, often Zero-Trustbased security model. This makes cloud-native endpoints particularly suitable for organizations that want to implement remote work, flexible device selection and international scaling.
2. Transition challenges
Migrating from traditional to cloud-native endpoints involves a number of challenges, which can be technical, organizational, and strategic.
A central topic is the Coexistence of different management systems. In many companies, hybrid environments with solutions such as SCCM, Jamf or AirWatch exist in parallel. Parallel Management not only creates additional effort, but also poses risks in terms of consistency, compliance, and security.
Another Obstacle Lies in the Data Migration and System Integration. Legacy systems are often deeply embedded in existing processes. Complete replacement therefore requires precise planning, including consideration of applications, guidelines and dependencies.
In addition, the change places high demands on Change management and training. Employees and IT teams must be able to understand and apply new tools and processes. Without accompanying training measures or internal communication, this can lead to acceptance problems or inefficient work.
Also regulatory requirements such as Data Protection and Compliance Are gaining in importance, especially when sensitive corporate data is processed via cloud services. Different standards, e.g. between Intune and systems such as ServiceNow, can make reporting and documentation requirements difficult.
3. Microsoft Intune as a Key Technology
Device management from the cloud:
Microsoft Intune Enables central management of devices via a purely cloud-based platform. It supports Windows, macOS, iOS and Android and allows devices to be configured, secured and monitored without local infrastructure. With Intune as a central platform for all devices, other solutions can be abolished and significant licensing costs saved. In addition, administrative complexity decreases.
Policy Management and Automation:
With Intune, Security Policies, Configurations, and Applications can be rolled out automatically. This includes password requirements, encryption settings, app assignments, and device configurations that are consistently applied across all endpoints.
Integration with Microsoft 365:
Intune is close with Entra ID, Microsoft Defender and other M365 components interlinked. This creates a holistic management and security approach, which is particularly effective in Zero-Trust-Scenarios play to its strengths.
Migration from Existing Systems:
Many organizations are moving away from established MDM solutions Switch to Microsoft Intune like Jamf or AirWatch. But that doesn't have to happen abruptly. Intune offers comprehensive opportunities for coexistence and gradual transition.
4. Successful Migration — How to Make the Transition
Initial inventory:
The changeover is preceded by a systematic analysis of the existing IT landscape. Which management systems are active? Which devices are affected? What are the safety guidelines? This inventory forms the basis for all further steps.
Architecture and design phase:
A cloud-native deployment starts with a conceptual solution design. These include: naming conventions, design principles for scripts, a security and hardening concept, and the definition of the necessary cloud resources. The aim is to create a consistent and maintainable target image for the endpoint architecture.
Decision: Greenfield or Co-Management:
Basically, there are two strategies:
- Greenfield: Building a completely new, cloud-based environment with Intune and continuing to operate the existing structure in parallel until all devices are replaced.
- Co-management: Gradual transition by moving individual workloads from existing systems such as SCCM to Intune — a more complex but necessary approach in some scenarios.
Step-by-step implementation and piloting:
After the architectural design, a minimal Proof of Concept (PoC) to check functionality in your own context. This is followed by a Pre-pilot With a small, tech-savvy user group to validate the concept. Only after this phase does the Main pilot With a larger group of users.
Training and change management:
A key success criterion is the early involvement of all parties involved — both IT teams and end users. Internal training and coordinated communication measures support acceptance and reduce the risk of errors in the company.
Security review and go-live preparation:
Before the productive implementation, a security check (e.g. penetration test) is recommended to technically secure the chosen design. Operational preparation for the go-live is taking place in parallel.
Operation and continuous optimization:
After the rollout, regular operation begins, accompanied by monitoring, evaluation and continuous improvement of the environment. The Introduction of Cloud-Native Structures is not a one-off project, but a dynamic process.
Best Practices and Guiding Principles:
- Reduce on-premises dependencies to a minimum
- Critically question existing processes
- Understanding transitions as an opportunity to clean up outdated structures
- Don't see Intune as “SCCM in the Cloud” — consider conceptual and functional differences
- Develop modern solutions with the power of Intune and Azure
The Switch to Cloud-Native Endpoint Management offers the opportunity to clean up the tool landscape — many functions that used to require separate solutions are already covered by the modern features of Microsoft 365.
Conclusion
Cloud-native client management is not a vision of the future, but is already a reality in many organizations. The benefits lie in a scalable, flexible and secure IT infrastructure that is seamlessly integrated into modern working models. At the same time, change requires a systematic approach — from inventory and tool selection to training and process adjustment.
Microsoft Intune has established itself as a central platform to make this transition efficient and sustainable. Supported by best practices and experienced partners such as SOFTTAILOR, the changeover can be strategically planned and successfully implemented. For companies that deal with the topic of modern endpoint management, the question is no longer whether, but how quickly and to what extent they want to make the change.
SOFTTAILOR helps you plan and implement your endpoint strategy — arrange a non-binding consultation now.
Dorian has been involved in corporate and IT strategy since 2011. Due to the endpoint security deficiencies of many companies and the information overload, he developed the endpoint strategy. Dorian is co-founder of the “Endpoint Management” expert group at IAMCP e.V.
Jahre Erfarung
Verwaltete Endgeräte
