Modern work is hybrid work. In 2025, businesses have staff all over the country, and the world. Where being together in an office was commonplace, deploying a new device was simple - deliver the device to your workplace, let IT configure it, and then hand it to the user. 

In a modern workplace, this model provides plenty of friction. Delivering a device into an office, configuring it, and shipping it to your new user can take days - precious time in a competitive landscape. This model wastes your resources and frustrates your staff. Not a good way to make a first impression. 

What's the solution? Enter Microsoft Autopilot: a modern, zero-touch deployment solution in Microsoft 365 which transforms device deployment and brings your business into the modern age.

The problem with legacy device deployment

Traditional device deployment is a time-consuming, manual process. IT teams typically:

• Unbox devices, connecting them manually to your office network
• Configure devices manually
• Configure settings, install applications, and join devices to the domain.
• Re-box and ship devices to end users or set them up on-site.

This approach is not only labour-intensive but also prone to errors, delays, and security risks. For growing businesses, scaling this model is both costly and inefficient.

What is Microsoft Autopilot

Microsoft Autopilot is a cloud-based provisioning tool that enables zero-touch deployment of Windows devices. It allows IT administrators to pre-configure devices so that when users unbox and power them on, the setup process is fully automated and tailored to the organisation’s policies.

Key Features:

• Pre-configuration via the cloud: Devices are registered with Autopilot before they even leave the manufacturer.
• User-driven setup: End users can set up their own devices with minimal IT involvement.
• Integration with Microsoft Intune: Policies, apps, and security settings are automatically applied.
• Automatic Azure AD join: Devices are enrolled in Azure Active Directory and Intune without manual steps.
  
  

How do I get Microsoft Autopilot?

To use Microsoft Autopilot, you must have as a minimum Microsoft Intune Plan 1 and Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD). The following Microsoft 365 plans include these components:

• Microsoft 365 Business Premium
• Microsoft 365 E3
• Microsoft 365 E5
• Enterprise Mobility & Security (EMS) E3 or E5

(correct at time of writing)

How Microsoft Autopilot works

1. Device Registration: Devices are registered with Autopilot using their hardware ID, either by the OEM or your IT team.
2. Profile Assignment: IT assigns a deployment profile that defines how the device should be configured.
3. User Setup: When the user turns on the device and connects to the internet, Autopilot kicks in.
4. Automated Configuration: The device is automatically configured, joined to Azure AD, enrolled in Intune, and receives all required apps and settings.

Time and Cost savings gained from Autopilot

Reduced IT Overhead

• No need for IT to manually image or configure devices.
• Devices can be shipped directly to employees, even in remote locations.

Lower Operational Costs

• Fewer support tickets related to setup issues.
• Reduced shipping and handling costs for centralised provisioning.

Enhanced Security

• Devices are secured from first boot with company policies.
• Integration with Microsoft Defender and compliance tools ensures ongoing protection.

Scalability

• Easily scale device deployment across multiple locations or remote teams.
• Ideal for onboarding during periods of rapid growth or M&A activity.

Your MSP will get you there

If your business is still relying on legacy deployment methods, now is the time to modernise. Autopilot is not just a tool—it’s a strategic enabler for IT efficiency and employee productivity.

Reach out to your MSP who can help you prepare for Microsoft Autopilot.