Streamline Windows Device Onboarding with New Defender Deployment Tool

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Microsoft Releases Updated Defender Deployment Tool for Windows

Microsoft has released an updated Defender deployment tool for Windows, designed to simplify the onboarding process for administrators managing large-scale device deployments. The new tool combines the onboarding package and related information into a single executable file, eliminating the need for separate files for modern and legacy systems.

Streamlined Onboarding Process

This streamlined approach allows administrators to manage device onboarding more efficiently, with added controls to limit risk if onboarding packages are shared outside the organization. The tool adapts to the operating system and supports endpoint security across a broad range of Windows devices.

Administrators can now use a single executable file that includes all required onboarding information, with no separate file needed. Silent and non-interactive options support large-scale deployments through tools such as Group Policy or Configuration Manager. Custom package identifiers enable tracking and management across environments, and packages can be set to expire within one year. Name identifiers and keys provide additional oversight.

New Deployment Packages Page

The updated tool also introduces a new deployment packages page, where administrators can view their organization’s onboarding packages at a glance and click to see more package properties. This increased visibility and traceability within the onboarding process provides a foundation for adding more onboarding-related telemetry in the future. Administrators can filter by active or expired packages and hide packages they no longer wish to see.

“The new deployment packages page provides a clear view of onboarding packages, increasing visibility and traceability within the onboarding process. This is a great foundation for adding even more onboarding-related telemetry to view per device in the future.” – Sinclaire Hamilton, Senior Security Product Manager at Microsoft

Availability and Additional Resources

The updated Defender deployment tool for Windows is available through the Defender portal, under Settings > Endpoints > Onboarding > Windows, or directly from the device inventory page. Onboarding and offboarding guides are also available on the new onboarding page. The Defender deployment tool is also available for Linux.

The updated tool is designed to make onboarding more predictable and transparent, with added administrative controls to limit risk. By streamlining the onboarding process, administrators can more efficiently manage device deployments and improve endpoint security across their organization.