Differences between the three Microsoft Intune reset methods ?

Do you know the differences between the three Microsoft Intune reset methods ?

✅ Wipe :

The wipe performs a complete reset to the device’s factory settings :
– Deletes all personal and corporate data
– Deletes all settings and applications
– Unregisters the device from Azure AD and Intune
– Returns the device to its original state

✅ Fresh Start

Fresh Start reinstalls Windows while preserving certain elements :
– Retains Azure AD and MDM registration
– Removes preinstalled applications (bloatware)
– Preserves user data
– Provides a clean, up-to-date version of Windows

✅ Autopilot Reset

Autopilot Reset is designed to quickly reuse a device within the organization :
– Deletes user files, applications and settings
– Retains connection to Azure AD and Intune
– Maintains regional/language/keyboard settings
– Retains provisioning packages and Wi-Fi connections
– Allows direct reconnection without initial configuration

💡Recommended use cases :
– Wipe : for lost/stolen devices or devices leaving the organization.
– Fresh Start : to refresh a slow or cluttered device while retaining data.
– Autopilot Reset : To quickly reassign a device to a new user in the organization.

Thanks

Aymen EL JAZIRI (Microsoft MVP)
Aymen EL JAZIRI (Microsoft MVP)

Hi, I’m Aymen El Jaziri , a passionate System Administrator and Microsoft MVP, with years of hands-on experience in managing and securing modern IT infrastructures.
This blog is where I share technical guides, automation scripts, product reviews, and real-world solutions that help IT professionals simplify their day-to-day work and stay ahead in a fast-evolving cloud ecosystem.
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Thanks

Aymen

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