Choosing Between SCCM and Intune for Effective Endpoint Management

Managing endpoints effectively is a critical challenge for IT teams today. With the rise of remote work, mobile devices, and cloud services, organizations need tools that can handle diverse environments securely and efficiently. Two popular solutions from Microsoft—System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) and Intune—offer powerful endpoint management capabilities. Choosing the right one depends on your organization's needs, infrastructure, and future goals.

This article breaks down the key differences between SCCM and Intune, helping you decide which approach fits your environment best.

Endpoint management dashboard showing device status and updates

Understanding SCCM and Intune

SCCM, also known as Configuration Manager, is a traditional on-premises tool designed for managing large fleets of Windows devices. It provides deep control over software deployment, patch management, and hardware inventory. SCCM excels in environments where devices are mostly on-premises and connected to the corporate network.

Intune is a cloud-based service that focuses on mobile device management (MDM) and mobile application management (MAM). It supports a wide range of devices, including Windows, iOS, Android, and macOS. Intune is built for modern workplaces with remote users and cloud-first strategies.

Key Differences in Deployment and Management

• Infrastructure

SCCM requires on-premises servers and infrastructure to operate. It integrates tightly with Active Directory and other Microsoft services but demands ongoing maintenance of the server environment.

Intune operates entirely in the cloud, eliminating the need for local servers. This reduces infrastructure costs and simplifies updates.

• Device Support

SCCM primarily manages Windows desktops and servers. It can manage some mobile devices but with limited capabilities.

Intune supports a broader range of devices, including mobile phones and tablets, making it ideal for BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies.

• Management Scope

SCCM offers granular control over software installation, OS deployment, and compliance settings. It is well-suited for complex environments requiring detailed configuration.

Intune focuses on device compliance, application management, and conditional access, especially for cloud apps and services.

Integration and Co-Management

Microsoft offers a co-management option that allows organizations to use SCCM and Intune together. This hybrid approach lets you manage traditional desktops with SCCM while leveraging Intune for mobile devices and cloud-based policies.

Co-management can ease the transition to cloud management by gradually shifting workloads to Intune without abandoning existing SCCM investments.

Security and Compliance Features

Both SCCM and Intune provide tools to enforce security policies and ensure compliance:

• SCCM can deploy security patches, antivirus updates, and firewall settings across managed devices.

• Intune integrates with Azure Active Directory and Microsoft Defender for Endpoint to enforce conditional access and real-time threat protection.

  
  

Intune’s cloud-based nature allows faster policy updates and better support for remote devices, which is crucial for distributed workforces.

Cost Considerations

SCCM requires licensing for the software itself and the underlying Windows Server infrastructure. It also demands IT resources for maintenance and updates.

Intune is subscription-based, with pricing tied to the number of users or devices. The cloud model reduces upfront costs and shifts expenses to predictable monthly fees.

When to Choose SCCM

• Your organization has a large number of Windows desktops and servers on-premises.

• You need detailed control over OS deployment and software distribution.

• You have existing investments in SCCM infrastructure and skilled staff.

• Network connectivity is limited or devices are mostly inside the corporate network.

  
  

When to Choose Intune

• Your workforce uses a variety of devices, including mobile phones and tablets.

• You want to support remote users with cloud-based management.

• You prefer a solution that integrates tightly with Microsoft 365 and Azure services.

• You want to reduce on-premises infrastructure and maintenance overhead.

  
  

Practical Example

A mid-sized company with 500 Windows desktops and a growing number of remote employees might start with SCCM to manage their on-premises devices. As remote work increases, they can adopt Intune for mobile device management and gradually move some workloads to the cloud using co-management. This approach balances control and flexibility.

Planning Your Endpoint Management Strategy

• Assess your current device inventory and network environment.

• Identify the types of devices your users need to manage.

• Consider your IT team’s expertise and capacity for infrastructure maintenance.

• Evaluate your organization's cloud readiness and security requirements.

• Explore co-management as a bridge between traditional and modern management.

  
  

Choosing the right endpoint management tool is not just about features but about aligning with your organization's goals and resources. Both SCCM and Intune have strengths that can support effective device management when used appropriately.