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SCCM Vs Autopilot

SCCM is a traditional, image-based deployment solution ideal for complex on-premise environments, offering deep control but requiring significant setup and maintenance. In contrast, Autopilot is a modern, cloud-based deployment solution that automates device configuration for remote and hybrid workforces, reducing deployment time but offering less customization. Organizations often use both solutions in a co-managed setup to transition towards a cloud-first strategy.

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68 views3 pages

SCCM Vs Autopilot

SCCM is a traditional, image-based deployment solution ideal for complex on-premise environments, offering deep control but requiring significant setup and maintenance. In contrast, Autopilot is a modern, cloud-based deployment solution that automates device configuration for remote and hybrid workforces, reducing deployment time but offering less customization. Organizations often use both solutions in a co-managed setup to transition towards a cloud-first strategy.

Uploaded by

mspjeff
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

SCCM vs Autopilot

🔧 SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager)

Traditional, image-based deployment and device management solution by


Microsoft.

Key Features:

 Uses custom "golden images" for deployment.

 Supports OS deployment, patching, application deployment, and


compliance settings.

 Requires on-premise infrastructure (management server,


distribution points).

 Ideal for highly customized deployments in environments with on-


prem domain controllers.

 Supports co-management with Intune for hybrid scenarios.

Pros:

 Deep control over deployment process.

 Mature, widely used in enterprises.

 Can deploy Windows OS even to bare metal machines.

Cons:

 Complex setup and maintenance.

 Requires building and updating images regularly.

 Less suited for remote-first or cloud-first environments.

☁️Autopilot (with Intune)

Modern, cloud-based deployment solution using Microsoft Intune and Azure


AD (Entra ID).

Key Features:

 No custom imaging required – uses the OEM-installed Windows


image.
 Devices are configured automatically when users sign in and connect
to the internet.

 Supports zero-touch deployment and remote provisioning.

 Integrated with Microsoft Intune and Entra ID (Azure AD).

 Supports Entra ID Join or Hybrid Join options.

Pros:

 Easy to scale and automate.

 Great for remote workers or school environments.

 Reduces deployment time and errors.

 Supports out-of-box experience (OOBE) customization.

Cons:

 Requires reliable internet connection.

 Less control over deep OS-level customization (compared to SCCM


imaging).

 Dependent on Microsoft cloud services.

✅ When to Use Which

Scenario Use SCCM Use Autopilot

On-premise environment ✅ Yes ❌ Not ideal

Remote/Hybrid workforce ❌ Limited ✅ Ideal

Need full OS customization ✅ Yes ❌ Limited

❌ Manual steps
Minimal IT touch deployment ✅ Zero-touch setup
required

⚠️May require Intune


Legacy app support ✅ Strong
tweaks

Cloud-first and scalable


❌ Not optimal ✅ Built for this
environment
🏁 Conclusion

 SCCM is best for complex, tightly controlled, on-prem environments.

 Autopilot is ideal for modern, cloud-driven setups where speed,


automation, and remote readiness are key.

Many organizations use both in a co-managed setup, gradually moving


toward Autopilot and Intune as part of their modernization strategy.

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