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Remote Help

Last Updated: May 2025
Implementation Effort: Medium – Setting up Remote Help for macOS requires deploying the helper app, configuring Intune RBAC roles, and optionally integrating Conditional Access and compliance policies.
User Impact: Medium – Users receiving help (sharers) may need to install the Remote Help app or use the web app, and they must actively participate in support sessions.

Introduction

Remote Help is a secure, cloud-based support tool integrated with Intune that allows IT administrators to remotely assist users on managed devices. As of 2024, Remote Help is supported on macOS 12.6 and later, enabling secure screen sharing and remote control for Intune-enrolled macOS devices. From a Zero Trust perspective, Remote Help reinforces identity verification, least privilege, and auditable support workflows.

This section helps macOS administrators understand how to enable, configure, and use Remote Help in a Zero Trust-aligned support model.

Why This Matters

  • Enables secure remote support for macOS users without requiring third-party tools.
  • Supports Zero Trust by verifying user and device identity before session initiation.
  • Improves IT efficiency by reducing time to resolution.
  • Enhances user experience by providing real-time assistance.
  • Ensures auditability of support sessions and actions.

Key Considerations

Platform and Enrollment Requirements

Remote Help for macOS requires:

  • macOS 12.6 or later
  • Intune enrollment
  • Company Portal app installed

From a Zero Trust perspective: Ensures that only managed, compliant devices are eligible for remote support.

Identity Verification

  • Both the helper and the user must sign in with Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD).
  • Sessions are authenticated and authorized through Intune and Entra ID.

From a Zero Trust perspective: This enforces explicit verification of both parties before any remote access is granted.

Permissions and Role Control

  • Remote Help permissions are managed via RBAC roles in Intune.
  • You can control who can initiate sessions, view screens, or request full control.

From a Zero Trust perspective: This supports least privilege by ensuring only authorized personnel can provide support.

Session Capabilities

IT admins can:

  • View the user’s screen
  • Request control (user must approve)
  • Chat with the user during the session

Users can revoke access at any time.

From a Zero Trust perspective: Sessions are user-consented, time-bound, and revocable, aligning with just-in-time access principles.

Auditing and Compliance

  • All Remote Help sessions are logged in the Intune admin center.
  • Logs include session metadata such as participants, duration, and actions taken.

From a Zero Trust perspective: This provides auditable support workflows and post-incident traceability.

Licensing

  • Remote Help for macOS requires a Remote Help add-on license.
  • Ensure that both helpers and users are properly licensed.

Zero Trust Considerations

  • Verify explicitly: Both the helper and the user must authenticate with Entra ID before a session begins.
  • Assume breach: Sessions are limited to managed, compliant devices and require user consent.
  • Least privilege: Access is role-based and scoped to the minimum required for support.
  • Continuous trust: Sessions are logged, monitored, and revocable in real time.
  • Defense in depth: Remote Help complements device compliance, RBAC, and Conditional Access.

Recommendations

  • Enable Remote Help for macOS in environments where secure support is required.
  • Assign RBAC roles to limit who can initiate and control sessions.
  • Ensure Company Portal is installed and devices are enrolled in Intune.
  • Educate users on how to recognize and approve legitimate support sessions.
  • Monitor session logs regularly to detect anomalies or misuse.
  • Review licensing to ensure all participants are covered.

References