Replacing Legacy Hardware with Microsoft Entra and Intune

The Situation

Reaching the Limits of Legacy Hardware

The nonprofit had used local servers and domain controllers for years. As the hardware aged, performance dropped, costs rose, and outages became more common. Each replacement required major spending on equipment that would soon need replacing again.

To avoid another round of costly hardware replacements and reduce reliance on physical systems, leadership chose to modernize. Moving management to the cloud with Microsoft 365, Entra, and Intune turned large, unpredictable expenses into steady, scalable costs that adjusted to staffing levels. The change also improved reliability, security, and access across every device.

The Challenge

Moving Away from Hardware-Based Management

The organization had used Microsoft Active Directory on local computers to manage users and devices. Moving to the cloud meant rethinking how those devices connected and stayed protected. The setup work was easy, but helping staff adjust was just as important. They were used to the old way of signing in and working on local systems. Learning new steps and trusting new tools took time, which made user comfort and confidence a core challenge.

The Solution

Unified Cloud Management with Entra and Intune

ITonDemand replaced the nonprofit’s aging server system with Microsoft Entra, giving the team a safer and simpler way to manage users through Microsoft 365. Each computer was joined to Entra and managed with Intune, allowing IT staff to manage passwords, updates, and security from a single place.

To keep things running smoothly, staff scheduled short setup sessions through an online link. Technicians connected remotely to configure each computer and confirm that sign-ins worked. Step-by-step guides and live training made the change easier to understand. The full migration took about two weeks and was completed one user at a time to fit individual schedules. For larger projects, automation can reduce setup time and manual work.

The Result

Simplified Management and a Modern Cloud Environment

The migration ended the nonprofit’s reliance on local servers and equipment. Their new cloud system is easier to manage and more reliable. Computers now update automatically, security rules stay the same for everyone, and new users can be added in minutes.

The project finished with no data loss or downtime. Some staff preferred the old setup at first, but most adjusted quickly after seeing faster access and simpler daily tasks. With Entra and Intune now handling maintenance, backups, and security, the organization has a stronger and more flexible IT system built to last.

Our Partner

About the Mid-Atlantic Infrastructure Group

This nonprofit supports professionals involved in public infrastructure and community development. It provides education, collaboration, and technical guidance to improve how projects are planned and maintained. The organization’s work helps local teams deliver safer, more reliable systems across the region.