Microsoft Intune Deployment & Microsoft 365 Security Solution

Transforming Identity, Device Management, and Cloud Collaboration for a Maryland University

Advancing Identity Security and Access Management Across Campus

This Maryland university sought to modernize its IT environment by improving security, increasing automation, and reducing reliance on on-premises infrastructure. As cloud adoption accelerated across the institution, the university needed a more effective way to manage user identities, secure access to resources, and support remote faculty, staff, and students without requiring VPN connectivity. At the same time, the institution wanted to maximize the value of its Microsoft 365 A5 investment while improving compliance, reporting, and operational efficiency.

To address these objectives, Data Networks designed and implemented a comprehensive identity and access management strategy centered around Microsoft Entra ID and modern Microsoft security technologies. The engagement included reconfiguring the university’s Shibboleth identity infrastructure, enabling self-service password reset capabilities, implementing password write-back synchronization, integrating single sign-on for multiple enterprise applications, and deploying advanced security controls aligned with NIST 800-63-3 guidance.

Data Networks also deployed Microsoft Defender for Identity, strengthened conditional access policies, and implemented advanced identity protection capabilities to provide greater visibility into user authentication activity and potential security risks. These improvements created a stronger foundation for secure access across the university’s expanding cloud environment.

Microsoft Intune Deployment for Modern Endpoint Management

A key component of the project was a comprehensive Microsoft Intune Deployment designed to modernize endpoint management across the university’s diverse fleet of devices. Data Networks implemented a co-managed architecture that integrated Microsoft Intune with Microsoft Configuration Manager, enabling the institution to leverage both cloud-based and on-premises management capabilities while establishing a roadmap for future cloud transformation.

The Microsoft Intune Deployment included assessment and optimization of the existing Configuration Manager environment, deployment of Microsoft Cloud Management Gateway for remote device management, validation of Microsoft Autopilot capabilities, implementation of Local Administrator Password Solution (LAPS), and integration of PatchMyPC for automated third-party application updates.

In addition, Data Networks deployed Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, certificate-based authentication, VPN and Wi-Fi profile management, vulnerability scanning capabilities, and advanced reporting dashboards. These enhancements improved endpoint security, streamlined administration, and provided IT staff with greater visibility into device health, compliance, and security status across the campus environment.

Expanding Cloud Collaboration and Operational Efficiency

Beyond security and endpoint management, Data Networks helped the university modernize collaboration and data access by migrating personal and departmental file shares from on-premises storage to Microsoft OneDrive and SharePoint Online. The migration strategy included proof-of-concept, pilot, and production phases designed to minimize disruption while preserving permissions and maintaining a seamless user experience.

The engagement also included evaluation and pilot deployment of Microsoft Universal Print, enabling the university to simplify print management for both local and remote users. By reducing dependency on legacy infrastructure and increasing access to cloud-based services, the institution improved collaboration while lowering the operational burden associated with traditional file storage and printing systems.

Through strategic planning, phased deployments, knowledge transfer, and comprehensive documentation, Data Networks delivered a secure and scalable Microsoft ecosystem that supports the university’s long-term goals. The combination of identity modernization, cloud collaboration enhancements, and a robust Microsoft Intune Deployment positioned the university to improve security, streamline IT operations, and better support students, faculty, and staff in an increasingly digital learning environment.

Tags: Hi-Ed, Hi Ed, higher education