Question:

“How can I configure Intune and SharePoint to automatically synchronize folders such that a new policy does not need to be manually established each time a new site is created, enabling direct and automatic syncing with File Explorer?”

Answer:

In today’s fast-paced business environment, efficiency and automation are key. For IT administrators using Microsoft Intune and SharePoint, automating the synchronization of folders to File Explorer can save a significant amount of time and effort. This article will guide you through the process of setting up such automation.

Before diving into automation, it’s essential to understand the basic setup. Intune is a cloud-based service that helps you manage your mobile devices and applications. SharePoint, on the other hand, is a web-based collaborative platform that integrates with Microsoft Office.

The Challenge

Typically, when a new SharePoint site is created, an IT administrator must set up a new policy in Intune to ensure that the folders from the site are synchronized with the users’ File Explorer. This manual process can be time-consuming, especially for organizations with a dynamic structure where new sites are frequently created.

The Solution: Automation

To automate the synchronization process, you can use PowerShell scripts in conjunction with Microsoft Graph API. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

1.

Create a PowerShell Script

: Write a script that triggers whenever a new SharePoint site is created. This script should use the Microsoft Graph API to create a new device configuration profile in Intune.

2.

Utilize Microsoft Graph API

: The Graph API allows you to manage policies and configurations in Intune. With the appropriate permissions, you can set up a new policy that includes the details for folder synchronization.

3.

Assign the Policy

: Once the policy is created, the script should automatically assign it to the relevant group of users. This ensures that the folders from the new SharePoint site are synced to their File Explorer without manual intervention.

4.

Test and Monitor

: Before rolling out the automation, test the script in a controlled environment. Monitor the logs to ensure that the policies are being applied correctly.

5.

Schedule the Script

: Use the Task Scheduler or Azure Automation to run the PowerShell script at regular intervals. This ensures that the automation is always active and ready to configure new sites as they are created.

Conclusion

By automating the policy setup for folder synchronization between Intune and SharePoint, organizations can ensure a seamless experience for users and reduce the workload on IT administrators. With the power of scripting and API integration, manual processes can be transformed into efficient, automated systems.

Remember, while automation can significantly reduce manual tasks, it’s important to maintain oversight to quickly address any issues that may arise. Regularly review the automation process and update the scripts as necessary to adapt to any changes in your IT environment.