Enroll Windows Device with MDM Enrollment Guide

Time and again, we tend to start anything regarding Windows with the fact that it is second only to Android in the global OS market share. So here we are, and the share was around 27.39%¹ as of February 2024. The stats are even more dominant for desktops/laptops, with Windows commanding almost 72% of the global market.

The use of Windows desktops and laptops across workplaces will never cease, even if other OSes catch up. In modern workplaces, ensuring consistent security and manageability across a diverse fleet of Windows devices is crucial. A Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution offers a powerful way to achieve this goal, streamlining device provisioning and enforcing organizational policies. However, it all begins with MDM enrollment of Windows devices, which lets you enroll only in device management and secure your environment. This process is also known as Windows device management enrollment and forms the foundation of an effective Windows MDM setup.

This blog highlights the different ways to enroll Windows devices using a Scalefusion UEM solution.

What is MDM Enrollment for Windows 10 and 11 devices

MDM solutions are the epicenter of managing and securing endpoints, including Windows laptops, desktops, and tablets. They allow IT administrators to remotely configure devices, deploy applications, enforce security policies, and wipe data if necessary. Enrollment serves as the initial step, integrating a device into the MDM ecosystem and granting it access to organizational resources. In doing so, organizations achieve Windows Device Enrollment in Mobile Device Management, which supports comprehensive control and Windows Device Provisioning in MDM.

Benefits of MDM enrollment for Windows Devices

Simplified Provisioning: MDM enrollment streamlines the process of setting up new devices, reducing the burden on IT and ensuring a consistent configuration out of the box.

Enhanced Security: MDM solutions enforce essential security policies like strong passwords, encryption, and application restrictions, protecting sensitive data.

Centralized Management: The MDM console provides a single pane of glass to manage all enrolled devices, enabling efficient policy application and configuration changes.

Improved Compliance: MDM helps enforce industry regulations and internal compliance standards, mitigating security risks and maintaining data protection.

How to Enroll Windows Devices with MDM Easily with 6 Ways?

Windows device management starts with enrollment, and here are the primary types of enrolling Windows devices into an MDM solution.

Enable Windows Automatic Enrollment for Corporate-owned and Personally Owned Devices

1. Windows Autopilot – Enroll Devices over the Air

Some call it zero-touch, and some OOB (out of the box). Microsoft says it’s Windows Autopilot. This innovative method offers a completely touchless experience for setting up new devices. Ideal for large deployments, Windows Autopilot enrollment automates the entire process, from initial configuration to enrollment with your MDM solution.

Here’s how it works:

• Pre-configuration: IT admins pre-configure Autopilot profiles in the MDM console, specifying settings like language, time zone, Wi-Fi details, and MDM server information.
• Device Startup: When users power on the Windows device (new or repurposed), it automatically connects to the internet and fetches the pre-configured Autopilot profile.
• Enrollment and Configuration: The device downloads and applies the settings, enrolls with the MDM server, and installs any pre-assigned applications, all without user intervention. 

Prerequisite: E5 License is required for enrolling devices with Windows Autopilot.

2. URL/Browser-based Enrollment of Windows Devices

URL or browser-based enrollment is perhaps the simplest way to enroll Windows devices, allowing users to self-enroll their devices into the MDM solution. 

Here’s the typical workflow:

• User Initiates Enrollment: Users access a web portal or download an enrollment app provided by the MDM.
• Credentials and Device Information: Users enter their credentials and provide basic device information.
• MDM Server Connection: The MDM server validates the user and device and establishes a secure connection by sending an enrollment code. 
• Policy Application: Once the user enters the enrollment code, the MDM server pushes security policies and settings to the device.

While browser-based enrollment supports both company-owned and employee-owned devices (BYOD) Windows device enrollment, it is particularly conducive for BYOD environments. 

3. Agent-based Enrollment Process

This approach uses pre-staged configuration profiles to automate enrollment on corporate-owned devices. An MDM agent or a proprietary agent app is the main element here. 

Here’s a breakdown of the process:

• IT Prepares Configuration Profile: IT admins create a configuration profile within the MDM console, specifying enrollment details, security policies, and application assignments.
• Device Setup: During initial device setup, IT admins configure the  device profile policies. Once the agent app with all the pre-configured policies is installed on the device, the policies will be automatically applied to that device. 
• Automatic Connection and Enrollment: Upon connecting to the internet, the device automatically retrieves the configuration profile, enrolls with the MDM server, and applies the predefined settings.

Within Agent-based enrollment, admins can opt for Provisional Package-based enrollment with additional configurations like sequencing of EXE files. 

4. Provisioning Package Based Device Enrollment (PPKG)

Provisioning packages are ideal for enrolling fresh or factory-reset Windows 10 and above devices, eliminating the complexity of imaging while enabling automatic enrollment to Scalefusion during the first boot. This method is often used for Bulk enrollment of Windows devices and ensures a seamless Windows MDM setup.

Here the process:

• Preparing Configuration Data: IT admins create a Windows Device Profile and Enrollment configuration, then copy the Bulk Enrollment URL and Enrollment code for use in Windows Configuration Designer.
• Generating Provisioning Package: Using Windows Configuration Designer, admins create a provisioning package by configuring device settings such as device name, network, and account management, and adding the enrollment URL and code in the advanced settings.
• Generating PPKG File: Admins export the configuration as a provisioning package (PPKG), optionally encrypt and sign it, and save it to a USB drive for device enrollment.
• Enrolling a Windows Device: Upon powering on a new device, admins insert the USB drive, and Windows recognizes the PPKG file, enrolling the device to Scalefusion, applying policies, and setting up the admin account.

5. Microsoft Entra ID – based Enrollment

Microsoft Entra ID-based enrollment automates the process for Windows 10 and above devices while also connecting corporate-owned devices to your Microsoft Entra domain. This integration leverages both the out-of-box experience (OOBE) and the Settings app for streamlined onboarding and enhanced access to organizational resources.

Here’s how Microsoft Entra ID Enrollment works: 

• Configuring Microsoft Entra ID: Admins configure Microsoft Entra ID-based enrollment in the Scalefusion Dashboard and ensure users have an appropriate Intune license to enroll devices.
• Device Enrollment: After setting up Microsoft Entra ID-based enrollment, users are automatically enrolled when adding their Entra ID account, or they can be invited to enroll via email.

Users can enroll their device by entering their Entra ID email in the “Access to Work or School” app, signing in, accepting terms, and completing the process, after which the device appears in the Scalefusion Dashboard for remote management. 

6. IMEI/Serial Number Based Enrollment 

This enrollment method uses unique device identifiers such as IMEI or Serial Numbers to streamline the bulk enrollment of Windows devices. It is especially useful for enrolling multiple corporate-owned devices together.

Here’s the breakdown of the process:

Completing Setup and Dashboard Monitoring: Users grant necessary permissions to the Scalefusion app and authenticate via email and OTP, while admins monitor device enrollment and configuration status on the Scalefusion dashboard.

Preparing and Uploading Enrollment Details: IT admins create a CSV file with IMEI or Serial Numbers and optional details (device names, groups, profiles) and upload it to the Scalefusion dashboard for validation.

Assigning Profiles, Groups, and Device Enrollment: Admins review and edit device assignments from the dashboard, then install the Scalefusion app on the devices, which validates and applies the predefined configurations.

Read More: Supercharged Scalefusion Deployer for Windows

Scalefusion Requirements for Windows Device Enrollment

Before enrolling Windows devices into Scalefusion’s MDM platform, ensure the following requirements are met to guarantee a smooth and secure enrollment process.​

Supported Windows Versions

Scalefusion supports the following Windows versions for device enrollment:​

• Windows 10 and 11: Pro, Enterprise, and Home editions.
• Windows 7 and 8.1: Enrollment is possible via agent-based methods.
• Windows LTSC/LTSB: Supported through agent-based enrollment methods. Scalefusion Help Center​

Prerequisites for Successful Enrollment

1. Scalefusion Dashboard Access: Ensure you have a valid Scalefusion Dashboard account to manage device enrollments.
2. Windows Device Profile: Create a Windows Device Profile within the Scalefusion Dashboard to define device policies.
3. Enrollment Configuration: Set up an Enrollment Configuration for company-owned or BYOD devices.
4. Device Requirements:
   • For agent-based enrollment, download and install the Scalefusion MDM agent.
   • For browser-based enrollment, use Microsoft Edge or Internet Explorer 11.

Comparative Overview of Complete Enrollment Methods for Windows Devices

This table compares six primary MDM enrollment methods for Windows devices. It outlines each method’s suitability, level of user involvement, degree of automation, and key features, helping IT administrators choose the optimal approach for their deployment scenarios.

Method	Suitable For	User Involvement	Automation Level	Key Features & Notes
Windows Autopilot	Corporate-owned, large-scale deployments	Minimal (zero-touch)	Fully Automated	Leverages OOBE; pre-configured profiles auto-apply settings; requires E5 license.
URL/Browser-based Enrollment	BYOD & Corporate-owned	Self-service (user-driven)	Semi-Automated	Users access a web portal, enter credentials, and use an enrollment code; ideal for flexible BYOD scenarios.
Agent-based Enrollment	Corporate-owned (can be adapted for personal)	Moderate (initial agent install)	Automated post-installation	Utilizes pre-staged configuration profiles via an MDM agent; streamlines enrollment once the agent is installed.
Provisioning Package (PPKG) Enrollment	Fresh/factory-reset devices, bulk enrollment	Minimal (plug & play)	Fully Automated	Uses Windows Configuration Designer to create a provisioning package (PPKG) applied via USB; perfect for new device setups.
Microsoft Entra ID-based Enrollment	Corporate-owned Windows 10+ devices	Minimal (via OOBE/Settings)	Automated	Integrates with Microsoft Entra domain; devices join using OOBE or via the Settings app; includes troubleshooting for common issues and benefits from enhanced access to organizational resources.
IMEI/Serial Number Based Enrollment	Bulk enrollment of corporate devices	Minimal	Automated (Bulk)	Employs unique device identifiers (IMEI/Serial Numbers) via CSV upload to streamline enrollment across many devices.

Best Practices for MDM Enrollment

Effective MDM enrollment is the foundation for scalable, secure, and compliant device management. Below are essential best practices to ensure smooth implementation and sustained control across your organization.

1. Ensuring Secure and Efficient Enrollment

• Use Zero-Touch Enrollment Where Possible
  Automate enrollment using solutions like Windows Autopilot or Microsoft Entra ID-based enrollment to minimize manual configuration and reduce human error.
• Enforce Strong Identity Verification
  Require multi-factor authentication (MFA) for both admin and user logins to the MDM dashboard and enrolled devices.
• Pre-Configure Device Policies
  Set up device profiles in advance to ensure that newly enrolled devices immediately receive the required restrictions, apps, and compliance configurations.
• Limit Admin Access
  Assign role-based access controls (RBAC) to ensure only authorized personnel can perform sensitive tasks such as policy changes, app deployment, or remote actions.
• Monitor Enrollment Logs
  Track all enrollment activities to detect anomalies or unauthorized device registrations early.

2. Strategies for Managing Personally Owned Devices (BYOD)

• Implement User-Based Enrollment
  Allow users to enroll their own devices through a secure self-service portal while maintaining control through policy-based restrictions.
• Use Containerization or App-Based Controls
  Separate corporate data from personal data using workspace apps, VPN split tunneling, or containerization features to preserve privacy and secure business data.
• Limit Data Collection
  Ensure only essential device information is collected, and avoid accessing personal content to build trust and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Apply Dynamic Policies
  Use conditional access and user group policies to apply different rules for BYOD users vs. company-owned devices (e.g., restrict copy/paste or file sharing).

3. Maintaining Compliance in Device Management

• Align with Industry Standards
  Ensure your policies follow compliance frameworks like ISO 27001, GDPR, HIPAA, or NIST, depending on your industry.
• Automate Patch and OS Updates
  Keep devices compliant by scheduling regular updates and security patches via the MDM console.
• Audit & Reporting
  Use real-time dashboards and exportable reports to demonstrate compliance during audits or internal reviews.
• Enforce Data Protection Policies
  Mandate encryption, password protection, and remote wipe capabilities to safeguard data if a device is lost or stolen.
• Geo-Fencing and Network Restrictions
  Ensure sensitive data can only be accessed from authorized regions or networks for added compliance.

Simplify Enrollment for Windows 10 and 11 devices using Scalefusion UEM

It is amazing to have great features onboard, but without a streamlined enrollment experience, managing Windows devices can be a tangle. A UEM solution like Scalefusion offers all the methods of Windows enrollment highlighted above. It allows organizations and IT admins the flexibility to enroll Windows devices as per business requirements and work-user scenarios.

Contact our Windows experts and find out everything you need to know about Windows enrollment. Get going with a 14-day free trial by signing up today!

References:
1. StatCounter

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which Windows enrollment method is suitable for different business environments and device types?

The right Windows enrollment method depends on your organization’s device strategy and endpoint management needs.

• For corporate-owned devices like Surface Pro tablets, use Microsoft Entra ID Join or Bulk Enrollment to enable automatic enrollment into your MDM solution.
• In bring your own device (BYOD) environments, Entra ID Register allows flexibility while enforcing policies securely.
• Windows Autopilot is ideal for new devices running Windows 10 or above, offering out-of-box enrollment.
• Scalefusion and Microsoft Intune support a variety of enrollment types including Shared Device Enrollment, Kiosk Mode Enrollment, and Personal Windows Device MDM options.
• These methods are compatible with different versions of Windows, including Windows Home, Pro, and Enterprise, ensuring broad support across device fleets.

2. What are the benefits of using Windows Autopilot for device deployment and enrollment?

Windows Autopilot streamlines the device provisioning process by enabling automatic enrollment into MDM during initial setup.
Key benefits include:

• Zero-touch deployment for devices running Windows 10 or Windows 11.
• Seamless integration with Microsoft’s cloud services like Intune Admin Center and Microsoft Entra ID P1.
• Reduced IT workload and faster onboarding, especially for Surface Pro enrollment.
• Autopilot supports unified endpoint management, enabling policies to be applied as soon as the user logs in with their work or school account.
• Devices can be fully configured and secured before reaching the end user.

3. Can Windows enrollment methods support remote device management and deployment?

Yes, Windows MDM enrollment methods are designed for remote management and scalable deployments across geographies.

Using tools like Intune or Scalefusion, IT teams can:

• Enroll devices via enrollment invitations, QR codes, or via Entra ID Join.
• Apply security updates, configure Wi-Fi, VPN, and deploy applications from the Intune Admin Center.
• Monitor the devices list, view compliance status, and send alerts or policies—whether the device is joined to Microsoft Entra ID or enrolled via other supported means.
• This is particularly valuable in hybrid work models where employees use personally owned or company-owned devices in remote locations.

4. How secure is MDM Enrollment for Windows Devices, and what security features do they offer?

MDM enrollment for Windows devices ensures high-level security via multiple features:

• Devices can be automatically enrolled in Intune using two-factor authentication tied to Entra ID.
• Admins can enforce BitLocker encryption, password policies, and Windows Hello biometrics.
• Devices enrolled using trusted work or school accounts gain access to compliance policies and secure corporate data access.
• IT teams can remove the device, unenroll, or lock it remotely if any threats are detected, improving organizational resilience.
• Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox can be used to access the Intune Admin Center, but Edge is preferred for native integration.

5. Can Windows enrollment methods support custom configurations and policies?

Absolutely. MDM platforms like Intune allow IT to:

• Set custom enrollment settings under the Enrollment tab for different user groups or departments.
• Push MDM accounts, device certificates, technical support links, or even Windows Update configurations tailored to specific device roles.
• Configure Surface Pro tablets, laptops, or desktops with different policies using the same management solution.
• These settings ensure devices align with your organization’s Microsoft policies and regulatory requirements.

6. How to enable Windows MDM enrollment?

To enable Windows MDM enrollment, follow these steps:

• Open Settings > Accounts > Access work or school.
• Click Connect and enter your work or school account.
• If your device is joined to Microsoft Entra ID, it will automatically enroll in Intune or your configured MDM solution.
• Alternatively, admins can push an enrollment invitation or configure policies in the Intune Admin Center under Enrollment Settings.
• Your device must be running Windows 10 or Windows 11 to support modern MDM features.

7. How do I know if my device is enrolled in MDM?

To verify if your device is enrolled in MDM:

• Navigate to Settings > Accounts > Access work or school.
• Select your connected work or school account and click Info.
• You can view the list of devices enrolled via MDM and confirm management status.
• In the Intune Admin Center, admins can also see all devices running Windows enrolled under the Devices list tab.

8. How Does Automatic Enrollment Work in Windows?

Automatic enrollment is a policy-driven process that registers devices with MDM once a user signs in using a work or school account on a supported Windows OS.
Here’s how it works:

Enrollment can be confirmed by reviewing the Enrollment tab or checking the device status in the management solution dashboard.

Devices running Windows 11 or Windows 10 are linked to your organization’s Microsoft Entra ID.

Upon login, the enrollment request is triggered, and the device is silently enrolled into Intune or your MDM platform.

This approach eliminates manual steps, enhances compliance, and allows immediate policy enforcement from the cloud.

Note: While implementing these strategies, it’s important to be aware of common issues in Windows device enrollment such as network challenges, misconfigured profiles, or intermittent connectivity. Addressing these promptly ensures a smoother enrollment process.