Skip to main content

© Securetron Inc. All rights reserved.

How PKI Trust Manager eases achieving Zero-Trust Security

Introduction

Modern enterprises require robust security frameworks that combine cloud-based device management with strong authentication mechanisms. The integration between Microsoft Intune and a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) Certification Authority (CA) is critical for enabling:

  • Windows Hello for Business (passwordless authentication)

  • Certificate-based authentication (for Wi-Fi, NAC, and VPN)

  • Secure device provisioning through Windows Autopilot

  • Locked-down kiosk devices with Windows Kiosk mode

This comprehensive approach ensures secure access across Windows, Android, and iOS devices while maintaining strict compliance and reducing attack surfaces.

1. Core Security Integrations: Intune + Certification Authority

A. Windows Hello for Business

Replaces passwords with phishing-resistant biometric/PIN authentication:

  • Intune automatically provisions certificates from integrated CA

  • Certificates bound to user identities enable secure login

  • Autopilot integration pre-configures Windows Hello during device setup

B. Certificate-Based Authentication (CBA)

Essential for:

  • Enterprise Wi-Fi (802.1X) – No shared passwords

  • VPN connections (Always On VPN, IKEv2)

  • NAC solutions (Cisco ISE, Aruba ClearPass)

Without Integration With Intune+CA Integration
Manual certificate deployment             Automated certificate lifecycle
No real-time revocation             Instant revocation via Intune compliance
Prone to credential theft             Secure, certificate-based access

2. Windows Autopilot: Zero-Touch Secure Provisioning

Autopilot transforms device deployment:

  1. Pre-registers devices in Intune before shipment

  2. Automates configuration on first power-on

  3. Self-service setup with Azure AD auth

  4. Auto-enrolls certificates for:

    • Windows Hello

    • Wi-Fi/VPN access

    • Application authentication

Result: Fully secured corporate device ready in minutes with no IT touch.

3. Windows Kiosk Mode: Secure Locked-Down Devices

Intune enables powerful kiosk scenarios:

  • Single-app or multi-app kiosks

  • Assigned access with limited functionality

  • Public-facing terminals (retail, healthcare, etc.)

Critical Security Components:

  • Certificate-based authentication prevents unauthorized access

  • Intune policies enforce:

    • Application whitelisting

    • USB/device port restrictions

    • Automatic logoff policies

  • Autopilot integration allows bulk kiosk provisioning

Example Use Cases:

  • Hospital check-in terminals with VPN certificates

  • Retail POS systems with Wi-Fi certificates

  • Factory floor devices with NAC authentication

4. Mobile Device Management (Android/iOS)

Intune extends certificate security to mobile:

  • Automated certificate deployment (SCEP/PKCS)

  • Conditional Access requiring certificates for:

    • Corporate Wi-Fi

    • VPN connections

    • Email access (S/MIME)

  • Compliance-based access control

Management Options:

  • BYOD: Certificates via Company Portal

  • Corporate-owned: Fully managed devices

  • Kiosk modes: Locked-down tablets/phones

Conclusion: Building a Zero-Trust Framework

The Intune-PKI Trust Manager integration creates a foundation for modern security:

  1. Strong Authentication

    • Windows Hello certificates

    • Device-based certificates

  2. Automated Security

    • Autopilot-driven provisioning

    • Certificate auto-enrollment

  3. Controlled Access

    • Kiosk mode lockdowns

    • Conditional Access policies

  4. Unified Management

    • Windows, Android, iOS support

    • Single pane of glass management

Key Benefits:
✔ Eliminates password vulnerabilities
✔ Enables true zero-touch deployment
✔ Secures all device types (workstations, kiosks, mobile)
✔ Simplifies compliance reporting

For organizations adopting zero-trust security, this integration is not just beneficial – it’s essential for maintaining security while enabling workforce productivity.