Microsoft Configuration Manager (SCCM/MECM) has been the backbone of endpoint management for decades. But with the rise of remote work, cloud-first IT, and Microsoft Intune, the question today is: “Can I retire SCCM and move fully to Intune?”
The answer: Yes. Intune can now replace 99% of SCCM functionality.
Why Organisations Are Moving to Intune
- Cloud-first management – No on-premises servers or distribution points.
- Works anywhere – Ideal for hybrid and remote work.
- Cross-platform – Manage Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android in one console.
- Built-in security – Deep integration with Azure AD / Entra ID, Conditional Access, and Defender for Endpoint.
- Smarter updates – Windows Update for Business and Autopatch for automated patching.
- Simplified GPO migration – Group Policy Analytics lets you import, assess, and modernise existing GPOs directly into Intune.
What Intune Replaces from SCCM
- Device provisioning → Autopilot and zero-touch enrolment.
- App deployment → Win32 apps, MSI, Microsoft Store, and line-of-business apps.
- Patch management → Windows Update for Business + Windows Autopatch.
- Compliance & policy control → Cloud-based policies, baselines, and Conditional Access.
- Security & antivirus → Manage Defender for Endpoint (AV, EDR, attack surface reduction, automated remediation).
- GPO reporting & migration → Analyse and migrate existing GPOs with Group Policy Analytics.
- Reporting & analytics → Endpoint Analytics, security dashboards, built-in reporting.
SCCM vs Intune: Feature Comparison
Migration Journey: The Modern Path
Moving from SCCM to Intune is now a direct path:
- Deploy with Autopilot – Replace imaging and task sequences with cloud provisioning.
- Shift apps and policies – Deliver applications and compliance baselines from Intune.
- Adopt Autopatch – Automate Windows and Office updates with minimal IT effort.
- Integrate Defender for Endpoint – Centralise antivirus, EDR, and threat response.
- Migrate GPOs with Group Policy Analytics – Assess and modernise your existing policies.
That last 1%? It’s usually tied to highly specialised legacy apps, or rare offline deployment scenarios. For almost every other use case, Intune is ready today.
Key Takeaway
Microsoft Intune now covers 99% of SCCM capabilities. With Autopilot, Autopatch, Defender for Endpoint, and Group Policy Analytics, organisations can confidently transition to a cloud-first, secure, and simplified endpoint management model.
The future is Intune. SCCM is no longer essential.
Ready to Modernise Endpoint Management?
👉 Book a Migration Readiness Assessment
👉 Talk to Our Intune & Security Experts
