Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager vs Microsoft Intune: What are the differences?

Introduction

1. Key difference 1: Architecture: Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager (MECM) is an on-premises solution that requires infrastructure and server management, whereas Microsoft Intune is a cloud-based solution that does not require infrastructure setup or server management.
2. Key difference 2: Platform support: MECM supports Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems, whereas Intune primarily focuses on Windows and macOS with limited support for Linux.
3. Key difference 3: Mobile device management: MECM offers more comprehensive mobile device management capabilities, including advanced features such as custom policies, app deployment, and compliance settings. Intune is designed specifically for mobile device management and offers a more streamlined and user-friendly experience.
4. Key difference 4: Application management: MECM provides extensive application management capabilities, including software distribution, patch management, and software metering. Intune offers a simplified application management approach, primarily focusing on Microsoft Store apps and a limited set of Win32 applications.
5. Key difference 5: Endpoint security: MECM offers advanced endpoint security features, such as remote wipe, full disk encryption, and vulnerability assessment. Intune provides basic endpoint security features, such as device encryption and remote lock, but lacks some of the advanced capabilities of MECM.
6. Key difference 6: Reporting and analytics: MECM provides robust reporting and analytics capabilities, allowing IT administrators to generate detailed reports on device inventory, software compliance, and security status. Intune offers basic reporting functionalities but lacks the advanced reporting capabilities of MECM.

In summary, Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager is an on-premises solution with comprehensive capabilities for managing devices, applications, and security. Microsoft Intune, on the other hand, is a cloud-based solution primarily focused on mobile device management with simplified application management and endpoint security features.