Deploy Windows Hello for Business using Configuration Profiles

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide to deploying Windows Hello for Business (WHfB) using Configuration Profiles. Windows Hello for Business enhances security by replacing passwords with strong two-factor authentication on Windows devices. Understanding how to implement this deployment effectively is crucial for IT professionals looking to improve security measures within their organizations.

Step 1: Understand Windows Hello for Business Deployment Options

Before proceeding, it's essential to know the two primary deployment methods for WHfB:

• Enrollment Profile: Deploys WHfB when users build or enroll their machines, affecting all users.
• Configuration Profile: Allows targeted deployment, enabling specific settings for users or groups.

Practical Tip

Choose the deployment method based on the needs of your organization. For broader security coverage, consider the Enrollment Profile; for targeted adjustments, opt for the Configuration Profile.

Step 2: Access Microsoft Endpoint Manager

To create a Configuration Profile for WHfB, you will need access to the Microsoft Endpoint Manager admin center.

1. Go to the Microsoft Endpoint Manager admin center.
2. Sign in with your admin credentials.
3. Navigate to Devices in the left-hand menu.

Step 3: Create a Configuration Profile

Once you're in the admin center, follow these steps to create the WHfB Configuration Profile:

1. Select Configuration profiles under the Devices section.
2. Click on Create profile.
3. Choose the platform (Windows 10 and later) from the dropdown.
4. Select Profiles and then choose Windows Hello for Business.

Common Pitfall to Avoid

Ensure that you select the correct platform and profile type to avoid configuration errors that could lead to deployment failures.

Step 4: Configure Profile Settings

Now you need to configure the specific settings for Windows Hello for Business:

1. In the Settings page, you will see various options. Adjust the following settings:

   • Enable Windows Hello for Business: Set to Yes.
   • Use biometrics: Choose whether to enable fingerprint or facial recognition.
   • PIN Complexity: Specify requirements for the PIN used in WHfB.

2. Review all settings to ensure they align with your organization's security policies.

Step 5: Assign the Configuration Profile

After configuring the profile, assign it to the appropriate users or devices:

1. Click on Assignments.
2. Select the groups that will receive the Configuration Profile.
3. Confirm your selections and click Next.

Practical Tip

Test the profile with a small group before a wide-scale rollout. This approach helps identify any issues without affecting all users.

Step 6: Review and Create the Profile

Once you have configured and assigned the profile, review all settings for accuracy:

1. Click Review + create.
2. Ensure all configurations are correct.
3. Click Create to finalize the profile.

Conclusion

You have successfully deployed Windows Hello for Business using a Configuration Profile. This setup enhances security and provides a smoother authentication process for users.

Next steps include monitoring the deployment's success through the admin center and gathering user feedback to make necessary adjustments. For further learning, consider exploring additional features in Microsoft Endpoint Manager or enrolling in comprehensive courses on Intune for Windows.