Scalefusion UEM for Windows: All you need to know

With an impressive market share of 73.41% in December 2024^[1], Windows continues to dominate desktop devices, from small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to multinational corporations (MNCs). Its presence spans desktops, laptops, rugged tablets, and POS systems, making Windows the backbone of most enterprise IT ecosystems. 

As of 2024, Microsoft Windows powers 1.6 billion active devices^[2]. Given this widespread reliance, managing and securing these Windows-based devices becomes necessary. This is where Windows endpoint management (UEM) steps in, offering organizations a unified platform to streamline the management and security of their Windows endpoints.

With no further ado, let’s understand what UEM for Windows is, its industry use cases, benefits, and key features. Also, learn how to implement Windows UEM in your organization for an airtight security posture. 

What is Windows endpoint management?

Endpoint management refers to the centralized control, monitoring, and maintenance of devices that connect to an organization’s network. These endpoints include any device that serves as an entry point to the network, such as computers, laptops, tablets, smartphones, and other connected devices. The goal of endpoint management is to ensure these devices function correctly, remain secure, and comply with organizational policies.

Windows UEM takes this concept further by streamlining the management of Windows-based endpoints under a single pane of glass, offering IT administrators better visibility and control over devices and ensuring consistent security across the network.

Windows endpoints that can be managed with UEM

Windows endpoint management allows organizations to manage a wide range of Windows endpoints, including:

1. Desktops and laptops
   • Devices running Windows operating systems, such as Windows 10 and 11, can be fully managed using UEM.
   • IT administrators can deploy software, enforce security policies, manage updates, and monitor device health remotely.
2. Tablets and 2-in-1 devices
   • Windows-based tablets, such as Surface devices, are increasingly popular in mobile workflows and can be configured and secured with UEM tools.
3. Point-of-sale (POS) devices
   • Windows-based POS systems, commonly used in retail and hospitality, can be managed to ensure secure transactions and uninterrupted operations.
4. Servers
   • While typically not categorized as endpoints, servers running Windows Server operating systems can also be integrated into UEM solutions for consistent policy enforcement and monitoring.
5. Kiosks and digital signage
   • Windows-based kiosks and digital signage systems can be managed to ensure they display the correct content and remain secure from unauthorized access.

Why is UEM for Windows a must-have across industries?

Windows Unified Endpoint Management (UEM)  is not just a convenience—it’s a necessity for organizations across various sectors. Here are some reasons: 

1. Comprehensive endpoint management for modern workforces

The proliferation of diverse Windows devices necessitates a unified management approach like with a UEM. The right unified endpoint management solution provides complete control over Windows devices. It ensures seamless provisioning, configuration, and monitoring across sectors such as healthcare, retail, and education.

2. Combatting rising security threats

Cyberattacks are escalating, with organizations facing significant risks. UEM serves as a preventive defense by scheduling patch deployments, enforcing robust security policies, and offering remote wipe capabilities to secure compromised devices. In highly regulated industries like finance, healthcare and government institutions, Windows UEM ensures compliance with stringent data loss prevention policies. 

3. Improved operational efficiency with automation

Implementing UEM solutions can lead to substantial reductions in IT support costs. For instance, organizations have reported up to a 36% decrease in IT expenses after adopting UEM^[3].  This is achieved through:

• Streamlined device management: Managing all devices from a single platform eliminates the need for multiple tools and simplifies routine tasks.
• Reduced support tickets: Proactive issue identification and resolution can lead to a 40% reduction in support tickets^[4].
• Improved security: Consistent patching and configuring device security policies such as email access, passcode policies, and data encryption, minimize vulnerabilities, and reduce the risk of security incidents.

4. Ensuring compliance across industries

UEM assists organizations in adhering to data protection regulations. It provides enhanced visibility throughout Windows device inventory, improving IT security, and reducing management costs. Different industries operate under strict regulatory frameworks, such as: 

• HIPAA compliance to secure patient data for the healthcare industry
• PCI DSS compliance to safeguard transmitted cardholder information in the banking sector  
• GDPR for generalized regulation for data privacy in both the public and private sectors.  

By providing real-time device monitoring and remote management across Windows endpoints, ensuring devices remain audit-ready at all times. This proactive approach reduces the risk of penalties and strengthens customer trust.

5. Enhancing the end-user experience

A well-managed endpoint fleet ensures devices are optimized for performance, allowing users to focus on their work without technical disruptions. UEM ensures that end-users have uninterrupted access to fully functional devices, enhancing productivity and service quality.

6. Optimizing cost, time, and effort savings  

Managing endpoints individually demands time and IT effort and can lead to inefficiencies and escalating costs. UEM consolidates multiple management tools into one platform, leading to significant cost reductions, time savings and reduction of cognitive IT load. For example, a retail chain using UEM can manage POS systems, inventory tracking devices, and employee tablets from a single dashboard, reducing the need for multiple IT teams and minimizing downtime during peak shopping seasons.

Industries where Windows UEM is a must!

1. Retail

The retail industry is dependent on Windows-based devices such as point of sale (POS), digital signages, self-service kiosks, and billing systems. A UEM solution:

• Secures POS systems: Protecting financial transactions and customer data from being breached.
• Ensures device security: Ensuring all devices are always up-to-date with the latest software and security patches. 
• Improves user experience: Pushing content to your digital signages and displaying attractive presentations and advertisements for better customer engagement. 
• Operational efficiency: Remotely troubleshooting and monitoring unattended devices in the store to maintain optimum device performance and health. 

2. Transportation and Logistics

Windows-based rugged tablets and vehicle-mounted devices are critical in the transportation and logistics industry. UEM ensures:

• Real-time tracking: Enabling real-time device tracking, to avoid device theft or breach. 
• Employee focus: Locking down devices to necessary apps will increase focus and productivity. 
• Device optimization: Ensuring that devices are always ready for use for on-field workers. 

3. Education

Windows-based desktops, laptops, and tablets, are widely used in educational institutions for both administrative and teaching purposes. UEM solutions are essential for:

• Managing student devices: Ensuring that devices used by students are secure, compliant, and equipped with the necessary learning applications. 
• Controlling IFPDs: Managing interactive flat display screens to make them available with necessary documents such as syllabi, textbooks and software applications. 
• Secure browsing: Creating a controlled and safe browsing environment by restricting access to unnecessary websites. 

4. Healthcare

In healthcare, Windows devices are used for maintaining patient data in the form of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) and A UEM solution helps:

• Regulatory compliance: Ensuring healthcare organizations comply with HIPAA and other regulations by protecting data.
• Data security: Protecting sensitive patient information from breaches and unauthorized access.
• Remote management: Allowing IT teams to manage and troubleshoot devices remotely, minimizing downtime and improving efficiency in patient care. 

5. BFSI (Banking, financial services, and insurance)

Windows devices are integral for managing customer accounts, financial transactions, and sensitive business data. UEM plays a vital role in:

• Data security: Protecting financial data from cyber threats and ensuring it is compliant with regulations like PCI-DSS.
• Secure device access: Ensuring only authorized users and employees, from bankers to insurance agents access the work devices. 
• Application control: Manages and limits applications on devices to prevent unauthorized usage and enhance operational efficiency.
• Enhancing user experience: Remotely managing and monitoring account opening kiosks for improved customer service. 

6. Airlines

In the airline industry, Windows devices are used for check-in systems, flight management, customer service, and in-flight entertainment. UEM ensures:

• Operational continuity: Enabling seamless device performance across various points of operation, from the airport kiosk and digital signages to in-flight entertainment screens. 
• Real-time visibility: A unified management console provides instant insights into each device’s status, health, and performance, helping minimize any device oversight 
• Device security: Lock devices in single or multi-app modes to achieve focus along with accessibility.

7. Hospitality

The hospitality industry relies on Windows devices for booking systems, customer services, and employee management. UEM is crucial for:

• Customer experience: Ensure that devices used in guest services (such as check-in kiosks and mobile apps) are secure and always functioning.
• Device efficiency: Ensure all devices are configured correctly, regularly updated, and easily managed across multiple locations.
• Remote support: Gain remote access and swiftly troubleshoot device issues. 

Benefits of managing Windows endpoints with Scalefusion UEM

1. Centralized control over Windows endpoints

Scalefusion UEM provides you a centralized platform for managing all Windows endpoints, including desktops, laptops, rugged tablets, and servers. 

With a logically organized dashboard, you simplify administration. IT admins can configure device profiles based on the requirement, enforce security policies, and monitor device health, reducing the complexity of managing multiple devices.

2. Support for legacy Windows devices

Scalefusion supports legacy Windows devices, ensuring businesses can manage older operating systems like Windows 7 and 8. This feature helps organizations maintain security and control over their devices, even if they haven’t yet upgraded to the latest Windows versions.

3. Manage Windows Servers

Scalefusion UEM also extends management capabilities to Windows servers. Businesses can enforce security policies, deploy software updates and patches and configure settings for both endpoints and servers, providing a consistent management experience across the entire Windows ecosystem.

4. Regulatory-compliant management

Scalefusion helps organizations meet regulatory requirements like GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS by enforcing secure device management policies. Features like remote wipe, data encryption, and access control ensure that businesses stay compliant while managing their Windows endpoints.

5. Modern windows management

With Scalefusion, businesses experience modern management of Windows devices, including zero-touch device provisioning, automated OS updates, app management, data encryption, reports and workflows and so on . These features enhance device control, reduce downtime, ensure devices are always secure and up to date and improve productivity. 

Unified Windows endpoint management with Scalefusion: Key features 

1) Device enrollment and configuration 

Scalefusion UEM streamlines the process of setting up new devices, reducing the burden on IT and ensuring a consistent configuration out of the box. It offers multiple device enrollment options: 

• Windows Autopilot: Automates device setup with pre-configured profiles. Devices connect to the internet, fetch settings, and enroll automatically. Ideal for large-scale deployments.
• URL/Browser-based Enrollment: Users self-enroll via a web portal or app by entering credentials and applying a code. Best for BYOD environments.
• Agent-based Enrollment: IT-configured profiles are applied via an agent app during setup. Suitable for corporate-owned devices needing automation.
• Provisioning Package-based Enrollment: Uses provisioning packages (PPKG) for setup and enrollment. Ideal for fresh or reset devices.
• Microsoft Entra ID-based Enrollment: Devices enroll automatically when linked to Entra ID. Best for organizations using Microsoft Intune.
• IMEI/Serial Number-based Enrollment: Enrolls devices in bulk using unique identifiers like IMEI or serial numbers. Perfect for corporate-owned devices. 

2. OS Update & Patch Management

Scalefusion streamlines OS updates and patch management by allowing IT admins to schedule updates during non-critical hours, delay them to avoid disrupting workflows, and automate the entire process to ensure all devices remain secure and compliant without manual intervention.

3. BitLocker Encryption

Scalefusion simplifies BitLocker encryption management on Windows devices. IT admins can remotely enable and configure BitLocker settings, such as encryption type and drive selection. Additionally, Scalefusion acts as an escrow to securely store recovery keys, safeguarding access to encrypted data in case of emergencies.

4. Remote Control

Scalefusion’s remote control capabilities allow IT teams to manage and troubleshoot devices efficiently. Features include remote cast and control for real-time device interaction, remote troubleshooting to resolve issues seamlessly, and file transfer for sharing necessary resources directly to the device.

5. Advanced Application Management and Configuration

With Scalefusion, IT teams can manage apps efficiently through a centralized app catalog, ensuring quick deployment of approved applications. It also facilitates the seamless distribution of enterprise apps while offering proprietary apps to create a cohesive device management environment. 

6. Kiosk Mode

The kiosk mode in Scalefusion locks devices into a controlled environment, supporting both single-app and multi-app configurations. This ensures devices are used only for intended purposes, whether dedicated to one application or a limited set of apps.

7. Location Tracking

Scalefusion’s location tracking enables you track the Windows devices in real-time. This helps you stay on top of your device inventory and ensures quick device recovery in case of loss or theft. 

8. Geofencing

Scalefusion allows IT admins to define circular and polygonal virtual boundaries. They can enforce location-based policies. Devices entering or leaving these zones can trigger automated actions, such as alerts, app restrictions, or compliance checks.

9. Content management 

With Scalefusion, you empower your remote workforce and frontline employees with streamlined access to business documents. You can push content files, videos and presentations and turn your Windows devices into digital signages.

10. Software Metering

Scalefusion’s software metering tracks app usage, providing insights into underused or overused software. This helps businesses optimize licensing costs and improve the return on investment for applications.

11. Peripheral Usage Control

Scalefusion enables IT admins to control peripheral device usage such as USB drives, Bluetooth, and printers. This helps enforce data security by restricting unauthorized access and usage of connected devices.

12. Conditional Email Access

With Scalefusion, access to corporate email accounts is regulated based on device compliance. Non-compliant devices are denied access, ensuring that sensitive business data remains secure. This ensures device and data security in BYOD scenarios. Scalefusion offers integrations with: 

• Exchange Online 
• IceWarp 
• Zimbra

13. Shared Devices

Scalefusion supports shared device usage, allowing multiple users to access the same device with unique profiles. This feature is ideal for shift-based workplaces or environments requiring shared resources such as an educational institution or a hospital. 

14. Browser Configuration

IT admins can manage browser settings such as allowed URLs, bookmarks, and browser restrictions. This ensures secure and productive web usage while preventing access to unauthorized content.

15. Automated Third-party App Patching

Scalefusion automates the patching of third-party applications, reducing security risks from outdated software. This ensures all apps on managed devices remain up-to-date without manual intervention. 

16. Support for BYOD

Scalefusion facilitates secure management of employee-owned devices (BYOD) by separating personal and work data. This ensures company data remains secure while maintaining employee privacy.

17. Passcode Policies

Scalefusion enforces strong passcode policies on devices to prevent unauthorized access. IT admins can configure passcode length, complexity, and expiration rules for enhanced security.

18. Remote Lock and Wipe

In case a Windows device gets lost or stolen, IT admins can remotely lock the Windows device and wipe all the data. This keeps the data safe and protected and avoids instances of data breaches. 

Key Takeaways 

• Windows Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) is essential across industries for enhancing security, preventing security breaches, improving operational efficiency, ensuring compliance, and reducing IT costs. 

• With a single pane of glass architecture, Scalefusion helps zero down your endpoint management to a single console. It offers centralized management of COPE and BYOD Windows devices, including desktops, laptops, rugged tablets, and servers, while supporting legacy devices (Windows 7 and 8). 

• You gain complete control and on your entire device inventory with Scalefusion UEM’s advanced feature suite – device enrollment, automated OS updates and patches, BitLocker encryption management, geofencing, software metering conditional email access and remote wipe. 

Next steps?

Reach out to our product experts to learn how Scalefusion UEM can support the management of your Windows endpoints. Book a demo and enjoy a 14-day free trial with full access to all features, giving you a firsthand experience of Windows endpoint management in action.

References: 

1- StatCounter

2. G2

3 & 4  – Hyper ICT