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:
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Windows Hello for Business (passwordless authentication)
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Certificate-based authentication (for Wi-Fi, NAC, and VPN)
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Secure device provisioning through Windows Autopilot
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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:
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Intune automatically provisions certificates from integrated CA
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Certificates bound to user identities enable secure login
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Autopilot integration pre-configures Windows Hello during device setup
B. Certificate-Based Authentication (CBA)
Essential for:
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Enterprise Wi-Fi (802.1X) – No shared passwords
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VPN connections (Always On VPN, IKEv2)
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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:
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Pre-registers devices in Intune before shipment
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Automates configuration on first power-on
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Self-service setup with Azure AD auth
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Auto-enrolls certificates for:
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Windows Hello
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Wi-Fi/VPN access
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Application authentication
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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:
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Single-app or multi-app kiosks
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Assigned access with limited functionality
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Public-facing terminals (retail, healthcare, etc.)
Critical Security Components:
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Certificate-based authentication prevents unauthorized access
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Intune policies enforce:
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Application whitelisting
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USB/device port restrictions
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Automatic logoff policies
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Autopilot integration allows bulk kiosk provisioning
Example Use Cases:
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Hospital check-in terminals with VPN certificates
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Retail POS systems with Wi-Fi certificates
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Factory floor devices with NAC authentication
4. Mobile Device Management (Android/iOS)
Intune extends certificate security to mobile:
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Automated certificate deployment (SCEP/PKCS)
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Conditional Access requiring certificates for:
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Corporate Wi-Fi
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VPN connections
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Email access (S/MIME)
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Compliance-based access control
Management Options:
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BYOD: Certificates via Company Portal
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Corporate-owned: Fully managed devices
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Kiosk modes: Locked-down tablets/phones
Conclusion: Building a Zero-Trust Framework
The Intune-PKI Trust Manager integration creates a foundation for modern security:
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Strong Authentication
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Windows Hello certificates
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Device-based certificates
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Automated Security
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Autopilot-driven provisioning
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Certificate auto-enrollment
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Controlled Access
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Kiosk mode lockdowns
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Conditional Access policies
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Unified Management
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Windows, Android, iOS support
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Single pane of glass management
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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.