Autopilot Process and Scenarios

Windows Autopilot can assist an organization in deploying Windows Client OS devices to users. There are four main scenarios for Autopilot deployment (right): User-driven mode, self-deployment mode, reset mode, and pre-provisioned mode. IT configures Azure Active Directory (AAD) to authenticate the user and allow the device to join AAD, enroll the device with Intune or a mobile device management (MDM) service, and configure the MDM service with the organization’s configuration settings and applications. (Although the lines connecting the device to AAD and Intune for authentication and device management are only drawn for user-driven mode, they apply to all scenarios and modes.)

Generally, the user-driven mode will be preferred (top). Here, procurement orders a device from an OEM, and the OEM delivers the device to the user. The user unboxes the device, plugs it in, and connects it to the Internet. The device is joined to AAD, configured, and applications are installed. Then the user can log in and use the device for their work.