How to Establish a Comprehensive Security Policy for Intune-Managed Devices
A Blueprint for Strengthening Device Management and Organizational Security
Developing a robust security policy for Intune-managed devices is no longer optional. Microsoft Intune, as part of the broader Endpoint Manager ecosystem, enables organizations to secure, manage, and monitor devices while safeguarding corporate assets. However, the effectiveness of Intune hinges on the strength of your underlying security policies. Here’s how you can establish a comprehensive policy that sets the stage for effective device management.
1. Define Clear Guidelines for Device Usage
The first step in crafting a security policy is to clearly outline the acceptable use of devices in the organization. Specify the types of devices that can be enrolled in Intune, whether they are corporate-owned, personal (BYOD), or shared devices. For example:
Approved Platforms: Support devices running Windows 10/11, macOS, iOS/iPadOS, and Android.
BYOD Guidelines: Ensure personal devices meet minimum security standards before enrollment.
Usage Restrictions: Outline permissible activities on corporate devices, such as prohibiting personal app installations.
By defining these parameters, you create a baseline that ensures all devices accessing corporate resources align with organizational expectations.
2. Establish Compliance Standards
Compliance policies are the backbone of effective device management. These policies should articulate the conditions that devices must meet to access corporate resources. Leverage Intune’s robust capabilities to enforce compliance across platforms. Key areas to address include:
Password Requirements
Set minimum password length and complexity (e.g., at least six characters, alphanumeric).
Enforce password expiration and history settings to prevent reuse.
Specify the maximum number of sign-in failures before the device is wiped.
Encryption Settings
Require full-disk encryption for all devices to safeguard stored data.
Use FileVault for macOS and BitLocker for Windows devices.
Mandate encryption for mobile devices, ensuring they meet platform-specific standards.
Device Health
Block jailbroken or rooted devices.
Ensure operating systems are up-to-date by defining update rings in Intune.
Compliance Actions
For non-compliant devices, set automatic actions such as sending alerts, restricting access to company resources, or remotely wiping data.
3. Implement Application Management Policies
Applications are a common vector for security vulnerabilities. Intune's app lifecycle management capabilities allow you to govern how apps are deployed, accessed, and used. Consider the following:
Deploy Required Apps: Ensure that essential applications like Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Edge are pre-installed on devices.
Restrict Unmanaged Applications: Block users from installing unauthorized apps that may introduce risks.
Configure App Protection Policies: Use Intune to apply app-level protection, such as restricting copy-paste functionality or encrypting app data at rest.
To support this, integrate app store ecosystems like the Managed Google Play Store or Apple Volume Purchase Program for seamless and secure app management.
4. Enforce Conditional Access
Conditional Access policies ensure that only trusted users and compliant devices can access sensitive corporate resources. Combined with Azure Active Directory, this feature provides granular control:
Multifactor Authentication (MFA): Require MFA for all users accessing corporate data.
Device Compliance: Block access from devices that fail to meet compliance standards.
Location and Application Sensitivity: Define access conditions based on user location or the sensitivity of the application being accessed.
These measures, when integrated into your security policy, fortify your organization’s Zero Trust posture.
5. Communicate and Train
A policy is only effective if employees understand it. Communicate the security guidelines clearly and provide training on:
How to enroll devices in Intune.
Best practices for password management and data protection.
Recognizing phishing attempts and securing personal accounts linked to work devices.
An intuitive and branded Company Portal, such as the one customizable in Intune, can significantly enhance user experience and adoption.
6. Monitor and Adapt
Device security is not a "set it and forget it" endeavor. Use Intune’s built-in analytics and monitoring capabilities to assess compliance and detect anomalies:
Compliance Reports: Regularly review which devices fail compliance checks and take corrective action.
Endpoint Analytics: Gain insights into startup performance, software adoption, and potential security risks.
Incident Response: Define a process for handling breaches, lost devices, or stolen credentials.
As the threat landscape evolves, ensure your policies remain relevant by conducting periodic reviews and updates.
TLDR
A strong security policy for Intune-managed devices is foundational to effective device management and organizational resilience. By defining clear usage guidelines, enforcing compliance, managing applications, and leveraging tools like Conditional Access, you can create a secure environment that empowers your workforce. Beyond technical controls, fostering awareness and adaptability ensures your policies are not just robust but also practical.
By anchoring your security strategy in these principles, you’ll not only safeguard corporate assets but also enable a productive and secure digital workplace. The path to comprehensive device management begins here—start today, and let your policies shape a resilient tomorrow.