What Autopilot does
Autopilot is a Microsoft process for provisioning Windows devices without your own image. The device is registered once or supplied pre-registered by the reseller, starts at the customer with Windows setup, connects to the cloud, receives policies and applications through Intune and is ready for use after sign-in.
Benefits
- No own image to maintain and keep current.
- Identical configuration on all devices, reproducible.
- Delivery directly to the employee, including home offices.
- Easy reset and reprovisioning when replacing devices.
Prerequisites
- Microsoft Entra ID and Intune in use.
- Suitable licences for Intune and Windows.
- Devices with current Windows and an internet connection at first start.
- A well-considered profile: user name, region, policies, apps, updates.
Classic or device preparation?
Besides the classic Autopilot profile there is Windows Autopilot device preparation, a newer variant with simpler setup and fewer prerequisites that is the recommended route for many new projects. Which fits depends on existing devices, hybrid scenarios and required features. Check current Microsoft documentation.
Our approach
We plan profiles and policies, test with a pilot group and then roll out in waves. This includes application packages and update control so devices are at the desired state after setup.