Comparing Microsoft Intune and N‑able N‑central RMM—Better Together

One of the questions I get asked by Managed Services Providers all the time is: Why do I need N‑central when I can just do everything via Intune? Well, in short, the answer is you can’t do everything via Intune.

In today’s increasingly complex IT landscape, managing and securing devices is crucial for organizations of all sizes. Microsoft Intune and N‑able N‑central RMM are two powerful tools that IT professionals often rely on to achieve these goals. While each platform excels in specific areas, they complement each other remarkably well when used together.

In this blog, I’ll explore the strengths of both Intune and N‑central, their differences, and how combining them can create a more robust and comprehensive IT management solution.

What is Microsoft Intune?

Microsoft Intune is a cloud-based service that focuses on mobile device management (MDM) and mobile application management (MAM). It is part of the Microsoft Endpoint Manager suite and is designed to help organizations manage the devices and apps used by employees, especially in a mobile or hybrid work environment.

Key Features of Microsoft Intune:

• Device Compliance and Security: Intune ensures devices meet security requirements through policies, such as password enforcement, encryption, and device health checks.
• App Management: Deploy, configure, and manage apps across enrolled devices, ensuring users have the tools they need while protecting corporate data.
• Conditional Access: Integration with Azure Active Directory (AAD) allows for conditional access, ensuring that only compliant devices can access company resources.
• Remote Wipe and Lock: In the event of loss or theft, devices can be remotely locked or wiped to protect sensitive data.
• Cloud-Native: As a fully cloud-based solution, Intune is ideal for organizations leveraging Microsoft 365 and Azure services, offering seamless integration and scalability.

Related Product

N‑central

Manage large networks or scale IT operations with RMM made for growing service providers.

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What is N‑able N‑central UEM?

N‑able N‑central is a robust remote monitoring and management (RMM) platform designed for managed service providers (MSPs) and IT departments to monitor, manage, and secure IT infrastructure.

Key Features of N‑able N‑central:

• Comprehensive Monitoring: Provides deep monitoring of servers, workstations, and network devices, enabling proactive maintenance and rapid issue resolution.
• Patch Management: Automates patch deployment across operating systems and third-party applications, reducing vulnerabilities and ensuring compliance.
• Automation and Scripting: Allows for extensive automation, reducing manual workloads through custom scripts and workflows tailored to specific environments.
• Backup and Recovery: Integrated backup solutions protect data and systems, ensuring business continuity in case of disasters or data loss.
• Security Management: Offers advanced security features, including antivirus, endpoint detection and response (EDR), and web protection, all from a single dashboard.

Comparing Microsoft Intune and N‑able N‑central RMM

Why Intune and N‑central Are Better Together

While Microsoft Intune and N‑able N‑central excel individually, combining them can offer a more comprehensive and integrated approach to IT management:

• Unified Device and Endpoint Management: Use Intune for managing mobile and hybrid devices while leveraging N‑central for more comprehensive management of servers, workstations, and network devices. This ensures full coverage across all endpoints.
• Enhanced Security Posture: Intune’s conditional access features can be complemented by N‑central’s advanced security tools, providing layered security across all devices and infrastructure.
• Streamlined Patch Management: While Intune handles OS and specific app patches, N‑central can take over with extensive patch management across all third-party applications, reducing security risks.
• Scalability and Flexibility: Intune’s cloud-native approach combined with N‑central’s flexibility for on-premise or cloud deployment offers organizations the ability to scale and adapt their IT management as needed.

Harvey Ball Chart: Intune vs. N‑central RMM

Feature	Microsoft Intune		N‑able N‑central
Device Management
Cloud Integration
Security Compliance
Patch Management
Automation
Backup and Recovery
User Interface

Conclusion

While Microsoft Intune and N‑able N‑central RMM are both powerful tools on their own, their strengths are definitely amplified when used together. Organizations can achieve a more comprehensive, secure, and efficient IT management strategy by leveraging the capabilities of both platforms. Whether you are focused on mobile device management or require extensive monitoring and automation for your entire IT infrastructure, combining Intune and N‑central can provide the solution you need to succeed.

Jason Murphy is the Head Nerd for N‑central and Efficiency at N‑able. You can follow him on reddit on r/nable or LinkedIn at ncentral_nerd.