What is the difference between Microsoft Intune and AppSense?

AppSense is a company that specializes in user environment management solutions, while Microsoft Intune is a cloud-based service for mobile device management (MDM) and mobile application management (MAM). The two solutions serve different purposes and focus on distinct aspects of IT management. Here are the key differences between Microsoft Intune and AppSense:

1. Scope and Focus:

   • Microsoft Intune: It is primarily focused on mobile device management (MDM) and mobile application management (MAM). Intune allows organizations to manage and secure mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets, as well as control access to corporate applications and data on those devices.

   • AppSense: AppSense specializes in user environment management, which involves managing and personalizing the user experience across various devices and platforms. This includes user profile management, policy enforcement, and ensuring a consistent user experience regardless of the device or location.

2. Management Capabilities:

   • Microsoft Intune: It provides a comprehensive set of tools for managing mobile devices, enforcing security policies, deploying applications, and ensuring compliance. It is part of the Microsoft Endpoint Manager suite, which also includes Configuration Manager for traditional PC management.

   • AppSense: AppSense focuses on managing and optimizing the user environment, including user profiles, personalization settings, and policies. It is often used in conjunction with desktop virtualization solutions to provide a consistent user experience in virtualized or remote desktop environments.

3. Deployment Model:

   • Microsoft Intune: It is a cloud-based service, meaning that it operates in the cloud and doesn't require extensive on-premises infrastructure. It is designed to support modern, cloud-centric IT environments.

   • AppSense: Depending on the specific product or solution within the AppSense portfolio, deployment may involve on-premises components or cloud-based components. AppSense has offerings for both physical and virtualized environments.

4. Supported Platforms:

   • Microsoft Intune: It is designed to manage a variety of platforms, including Windows, iOS, Android, and macOS devices. It provides a unified management platform for cross-platform device management.

   • AppSense: While AppSense has historically been associated with Windows environments, its solutions may extend to various platforms depending on the specific product and use case.

5. Vendor and Ecosystem:

   • Microsoft Intune: It is part of the Microsoft ecosystem, and organizations using Microsoft 365 or Microsoft Endpoint Manager may find it integrated seamlessly with other Microsoft services and tools.

   • AppSense: AppSense is an independent vendor with a focus on user environment management. Its solutions are not tied to a specific vendor's ecosystem.

It's important to note that the information provided here and there may have been developments or changes in these products since then. Organizations evaluating these solutions should refer to the latest product documentation and vendor information for the most accurate and up-to-date details.