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As workplaces evolve and employees increasingly rely on a mix of laptops, desktops, and mobile phones to stay productive, secure and efficient device management has become essential. Microsoft Intune is a powerful platform designed to help businesses manage devices and user access from a central point — but many organisations aren’t fully benefiting from what it offers.
One common reason? The full functionality of Intune, particularly when combined with Conditional Access, is often underused or misconfigured — not necessarily through neglect, but because many Managed Service Providers aren’t fully aware of the platform’s depth. For businesses working with a forward-thinking MSP in London, however, there’s real potential to enhance both security and productivity.
Understanding Microsoft Intune
Microsoft Intune is part of Microsoft’s Endpoint Manager, offering centralised control over Windows devices, Android and iOS phones, and even macOS systems. It allows businesses to enforce security policies, push software, monitor compliance, and protect data — all remotely.
For example, you can ensure all staff laptops are encrypted, running up-to-date antivirus protection, and only installing approved software. If a mobile device is lost or compromised, sensitive company data can be wiped without touching personal information.
It’s a flexible system that can adapt to a wide range of organisations — from small firms to complex, multi-location enterprises.
The Role of Conditional Access
Where Intune focuses on device configuration and compliance, Conditional Access takes things further by controlling how and when users can access company data and services.
Rather than relying solely on passwords or device checks, Conditional Access policies can use multiple signals — such as location, device health, sign-in risk, or user role — to grant or block access. This adaptive approach means access is only allowed when conditions are appropriate.
A few examples:
- Allowing access to Microsoft 365 only from corporate devices
- Requiring multi-factor authentication when accessing files outside office hours
- Blocking logins from high-risk countries or unknown IP addresses
The result is a more intelligent form of access control that adapts to real-world behaviour — helping keep data secure without getting in the way of productivity.
Missed Opportunities in Configuration
Despite the clear advantages of using Intune and Conditional Access together, many businesses are only scratching the surface of what these tools can do. Common issues include:
- Devices are enrolled but lack meaningful compliance checks
- Conditional Access is applied too broadly or too narrowly
- Personal devices access corporate data without proper separation or control
- Reporting is incomplete, making it difficult to monitor security posture
Often, these oversights stem from a gap in understanding — either during initial setup or as new features are released. A Managed Service Provider may technically support Microsoft environments, but that doesn’t guarantee a deep working knowledge of the constantly evolving tools within Microsoft 365.
This is especially true when security and compliance are involved. Without detailed policy planning and ongoing tuning, even a well-intentioned setup can fall short.
Why This Matters More Than Ever
In today’s working environment, staff are increasingly mobile, remote, and reliant on cloud services. Devices connect from home, cafés, airports, and shared networks. Sensitive information is accessed on phones, tablets, and laptops — sometimes personal, sometimes corporate-owned.
Against this backdrop, a “set and forget” approach to security simply isn’t enough. That’s why platforms like Intune and Conditional Access are so valuable: they offer not just control, but flexibility. The ability to allow productive work from anywhere — without compromising security.
But these benefits are only fully realised when implemented thoughtfully. That’s where an experienced, technically thorough MSP in London can make a significant difference.
The Value of a Deeper Implementation
Getting the most from Intune and Conditional Access involves more than ticking boxes. It means:
- Tailoring policies to your organisation’s specific risk profile and workflows
- Layering security intelligently rather than applying blanket restrictions
- Ongoing adjustments as threats evolve and your business changes
- User awareness and training to ensure staff aren’t working around policies
It’s also about visibility. When configured properly, Microsoft Endpoint Manager provides detailed reporting on device health, compliance status, and sign-in risk — giving you insights that can guide future security decisions.
This level of configuration requires time, testing, and expertise. Not all Managed Service Providers have the capacity or interest to go that far. For businesses who do value this level of care, partnering with the right MSP can be transformative.
A More Considered Approach
Many trusted Managed Service Providers work with clients to design security frameworks that make sense for their specific needs. From deployment to day-to-day support, we focus on getting the details right — because those are the details that keep your business running securely and efficiently.
Whether you’re looking to roll out Intune for the first time, refine an existing setup, or simply gain better insight into your current device landscape, having the right guidance matters. That’s why organisations seeking a thoughtful, technically capable MSP in London turn to teams who value quality over quick fixes.