Onboarding Microsoft Defender for Endpoint on macOS: A Comprehensive Guide

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint (MDE) is a powerful tool for securing endpoints, but onboarding it to macOS can be a complex process. This article will guide you through the steps to configure and deploy MDE on macOS, along with practical commands and codes to ensure a smooth setup.

You Should Know:

1. Preparation:

• Ensure you have administrative access to the macOS device.
• Download the necessary configuration files from the Microsoft GitHub repository.

2. Installation Steps:

• Step 1: Download the combined `mobileconfig` file from the GitHub repository.
• Step 2: Use the following command to install the configuration profile:

  sudo profiles install -path /path/to/combined.mobileconfig
  

• Step 3: Verify the installation by checking the profiles installed on the device:

  sudo profiles list
  

• Step 4: Deploy the Microsoft Defender for Endpoint app using Intune or manually by downloading the installer from the Microsoft Defender portal.

3. Configuration:

• Step 5: Configure the AV settings by editing the `mobileconfig` file or using Intune policies.
• Step 6: Ensure the device is onboarded to the Defender portal by running:

  mdatp --diagnostics --quick
  

• Step 7: Verify the device status in the Microsoft Defender Security Center.

4. Troubleshooting:

• If the device does not appear in the Defender portal, ensure the app is opened at least once.
• Use the following command to check the status of the Defender service:

  mdatp --health
  

• For detailed logs, use:

  mdatp --log-level debug
  

5. Automation:

• Automate the deployment using Intune or a script. Here’s an example script to automate the installation:

  #!/bin/bash</li>
  </ul>
  
  <h1>Download the mobileconfig file</h1>
  
  curl -O https://raw.githubusercontent.com/microsoft/mdatp-xplat/master/macos/mobileconfig/combined/combined.mobileconfig
  
  <h1>Install the profile</h1>
  
  sudo profiles install -path combined.mobileconfig
  
  <h1>Install Microsoft Defender for Endpoint</h1>
  
  curl -O https://aka.ms/mdatp/macOS
  sudo installer -pkg MicrosoftDefenderATP.pkg -target /
  

  What Undercode Say:

  Onboarding Microsoft Defender for Endpoint on macOS can be a daunting task, but with the right steps and commands, it becomes manageable. The key is to follow a structured approach, leveraging automation where possible to reduce manual errors and save time. The provided commands and scripts should help streamline the process, ensuring a secure and efficient deployment.

  Expected Output:

  • Successful installation and configuration of Microsoft Defender for Endpoint on macOS.
  • The device should appear in the Microsoft Defender Security Center.
  • The Defender service should be running without issues, providing real-time protection against threats.

  For more detailed instructions, refer to the official Microsoft documentation.

  References:

  Reported By: Jamesagombar Who – Hackers Feeds
  Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
  Basic Verification: Pass ✅

  Join Our Cyber World:

  💬 Whatsapp | 💬 Telegram