How Intune Operates Behind the Scenes: Device Enrollment to Policy Application

Tek Doyen
Jan 7
2 min read

Microsoft Intune works behind the scenes by enrolling devices into management, keeping them in sync with the cloud, pushing security and compliance policies, and delivering apps seamlessly. Once a device is enrolled, Intune ensures it regularly checks in, applies assigned configurations, and installs applications without user intervention.

🔑 How Intune Works in the Background

1. Device Enrollment

Devices are registered with Microsoft Entra ID (Azure AD).
During enrollment, Intune installs a Mobile Device Management (MDM) certificate on the device, enabling secure communication.
Enrollment methods vary: Autopilot, Company Portal app, Apple DEP, Android Enterprise etc.

2. Device Syncing

Devices periodically check in with Intune to receive updates.
Sync happens automatically via the Company Portal app or can be triggered manually.
Sync ensures devices get the latest policies, apps, and scripts assigned to them.

3. Pushing of Policies

Admins define compliance policies, configuration profiles, and security baselines.
These policies are pushed to devices during sync.
Examples: password requirements, encryption, firewall settings, conditional access.
Policies enforce organizational standards and protect data.

4. Installing of Applications

Apps are assigned via Intune: Win32 apps, MSI packages, Microsoft Store apps, iOS/Android apps.
Intune pushes apps silently in the background or makes them available in the Company Portal for user installation.
Admins can track installation status and troubleshoot failures.

📊 Workflow Summary Table

Stage	What Happens	Key Tools
Device Enrollment	Device registers with Entra ID, MDM certificate installed	Autopilot, Company Portal, DEP
Device Syncing	Device checks in with Intune for updates	Company Portal, manual sync
Pushing of Policies	Compliance & configuration policies applied	Security baselines, profiles
Installing of Applications	Apps deployed silently or via portal	Win32, MSI, Store, mobile apps