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180: App management

Overview​

Managing apps on macOS devices using Microsoft Intune involves several steps to ensure seamless deployment, security, and compliance. Here's a detailed overview:

Steps to Deploy App Management​

  1. Prerequisites:

    • Ensure you have the necessary licenses for Microsoft Intune.
    • Verify that macOS devices meet the system requirements.

  2. Add Apps to Intune:

    • In the Intune admin center, navigate to Apps > All apps.
    • Select Add and choose the type of app you want to deploy (e.g., macOS LOB apps, Microsoft 365 apps, etc.).
    • Configure the app information, including name, description, and publisher.

  3. Assign Apps to Devices:

    • After adding the app, go to Assignments.
    • Assign the app to the relevant device groups or users.
    • Configure the installation behavior (e.g., required, available for enrolled devices, etc.).

  4. Configure App Protection Policies:

    • Navigate to Apps > App protection policies.
    • Create and configure policies to protect corporate data within the apps.
    • Assign these policies to the relevant user groups².

  5. Monitor App Deployment:

    • Use the Intune admin center to monitor the deployment status of apps.
    • Check for any installation issues and troubleshoot as needed.

Benefits​

  • Centralized Management: Simplifies the deployment and management of apps across all macOS devices from a single console.
  • Enhanced Security: App protection policies help safeguard corporate data within apps.
  • Compliance: Ensures that apps comply with organizational policies and regulatory requirements.

Drawbacks​

  • Complex Setup: Initial configuration can be complex and time-consuming.
  • Resource Intensive: May require significant system resources, potentially impacting device performance.
  • User Experience: Users might experience interruptions during the deployment and configuration process.

Impact on End Users​

  • Performance: Users might notice a slight decrease in performance due to the additional security processes running in the background.
  • Seamless Access: Users will benefit from seamless access to corporate apps without needing to enter credentials repeatedly.
  • Notifications: Users will receive notifications related to app installations and updates.

Tying to Zero Trust​

Deploying app management for macOS devices aligns with the Zero Trust security model by ensuring that:

  • Continuous Verification: Every access request is continuously verified, regardless of where the request originates.
  • Least Privilege Access: Users and devices are granted the minimum level of access necessary to perform their tasks.
  • Assume Breach: The system is designed with the assumption that a breach has already occurred, ensuring robust detection and response mechanisms.

Reference​