Understanding the Key Differences Between Windows Autopilot V1 and V2

Windows Autopilot has transformed how organizations deploy and manage Windows devices. With the release of Windows Autopilot V2, many IT professionals wonder how it differs from the original version and what benefits the upgrade brings. This post breaks down the main differences between Windows Autopilot V1 and V2, helping you understand which version fits your organization's needs and how the changes improve device provisioning.

What is Windows Autopilot?

Windows Autopilot is a cloud-based deployment technology designed to simplify Windows device setup. It allows IT teams to pre-configure devices so that when users receive them, the setup process is mostly automatic. This reduces manual work, speeds up deployment, and ensures devices comply with company policies from the start.

The original version, Windows Autopilot V1, introduced this concept with basic features for device registration, profile assignment, and user-driven setup. Windows Autopilot V2 builds on this foundation with enhanced capabilities, better integration, and more flexibility.

Device Registration and Enrollment

One of the core functions of Autopilot is registering devices so they can be managed and configured remotely.

• V1 requires devices to be registered manually or by OEM partners uploading hardware IDs to the Autopilot service. This process can be time-consuming and prone to errors if hardware IDs are missing or incorrect.

• V2 introduces automatic device registration through integration with Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) and Microsoft Endpoint Manager. Devices can be registered as soon as they connect to the network, eliminating manual uploads and speeding up enrollment.

  
  

This change means IT teams spend less time managing device inventories and more time focusing on deployment and support.

Deployment Profiles and Customization

Deployment profiles define how devices are configured during setup, including settings like user account type, language, and applications installed.

• V1 supports basic profile creation with limited customization options. Profiles are assigned based on device groups, and some settings require manual intervention or additional tools.

• V2 offers more granular control over deployment profiles. It supports dynamic assignment based on user or device attributes, allowing tailored experiences for different departments or roles. Additionally, V2 supports new configuration options such as Windows Hello for Business and enhanced security policies.

  
  

For example, a sales team device can automatically receive a profile with CRM software and VPN settings, while a developer’s device gets development tools and elevated permissions.

User Experience Improvements

User experience during device setup is critical for adoption and productivity.

• V1 provides a mostly automated setup but can require users to interact with multiple screens and enter information manually.

• V2 streamlines the process by reducing the number of prompts and automating more steps. It supports self-deployment mode, where devices can be pre-configured for kiosk or shared use without user interaction. It also improves support for remote provisioning, which is essential for hybrid or remote workforces.

  
  

This smoother setup reduces frustration and helps users get started faster.

Integration with Management Tools

Windows Autopilot works closely with device management platforms to enforce policies and deploy software.

• V1 integrates primarily with Microsoft Intune for device management. While effective, some workflows require additional scripting or manual steps.

• V2 deepens integration with Microsoft Endpoint Manager, combining Intune and Configuration Manager capabilities. This allows unified management of devices regardless of location or network status. V2 also supports co-management scenarios, where devices can be managed by both cloud and on-premises tools simultaneously.

  
  

This flexibility helps organizations transition to cloud management without disrupting existing processes.

Security Enhancements

Security is a top priority for any device deployment solution.

• V1 supports basic security features like BitLocker encryption and Windows Defender configuration.

• V2 adds support for modern security standards, including enhanced Windows Hello for Business deployment and conditional access policies tied to device compliance. It also improves support for Zero Trust security models by ensuring devices meet strict criteria before granting access to corporate resources.

  
  

These improvements help organizations protect sensitive data and meet compliance requirements more effectively.

Reporting and Monitoring

Tracking deployment status and device health is essential for IT teams.

• V1 offers basic reporting through the Autopilot service and Intune dashboards, but data can be limited or delayed.

• V2 provides richer telemetry and real-time monitoring capabilities. IT admins can see detailed progress of device provisioning, identify failures quickly, and access logs for troubleshooting. Integration with Azure Monitor and other analytics tools enhances visibility into the deployment lifecycle.

  
  

Better insights mean faster issue resolution and improved deployment success rates.

Licensing and Availability

Windows Autopilot V2 is available to organizations with appropriate Microsoft 365 licenses, including Enterprise Mobility + Security (EMS) and Microsoft 365 E3/E5 plans. Some advanced features may require additional subscriptions or configurations.

Organizations currently using V1 can upgrade to V2 without replacing devices, as the service updates automatically. Planning the transition involves reviewing current deployment workflows and testing new features in pilot groups.