Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Use the Intune Settings Catalog setting Allow Message Service Cloud Sync to control whether supported Windows devices may back up, restore, and synchronize cellular SMS messages through Microsoft cloud services. Set it to 1 (Allow) when users may choose whether to sync, or 0 (Block) when the capability must be unavailable and locked off.
This is a device policy and is documented by Microsoft as Message sync (mobile only). It does not control MMS, RCS, app access to messages, Windows settings synchronization, Outlook, Teams, or other messaging applications.
What the policy controls
AllowMessageSync governs cloud backup and restore of cellular text messages and synchronization between Windows devices. A value of 0 prevents the feature and prevents the user from changing it. A value of 1 permits the feature but does not force synchronization on; the user retains control of the setting.
Microsoft’s policy documentation is available at Messaging Policy CSP. Intune’s device-restriction reference labels the corresponding control Message sync (mobile only) (Windows device restriction settings).
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- DESIGNED BY APPLE — Ideal for charging, syncing, and transferring data between USB-C devices, this 1-meter charge cable is made with a woven design and has USB-C connectors on both ends.
- FAST AND CONVENIENT CHARGING — Supports charging of up to 60 watts and transfers data at USB 2 rates. Pair the USB-C Charge Cable with a compatible USB-C power adapter to conveniently charge your devices from a wall outlet and even take advantage of the fast-charging feature on select iPhone models.
- WHAT’S IN THE BOX — Apple USB-C Woven Charge Cable only. Power adapter sold separately.
- CABLE LENGTH — 1 meter (3 feet).
What it does not control
AllowMMS, which controls cellular MMS sending and receiving.AllowRCS, which controls cellular RCS sending and receiving.LetAppsAccessMessaging, which controls whether Windows apps can read or send messages.- Windows account or application-settings synchronization controlled by SettingSync policies.
- Microsoft Teams, Outlook, or third-party messaging services.
Policy identifiers and supported scope
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Settings Catalog name | Allow Message Service Cloud Sync (also shown as Allow Message Sync in some views) |
| Policy/CSP setting | AllowMessageSync |
| CSP path | ./Device/Vendor/MSFT/Policy/Config/Messaging/AllowMessageSync |
| Category | Messaging |
| Registry policy key | HKLMSoftwarePoliciesMicrosoftWindowsMessaging |
| Registry value | AllowMessageSync |
| Data type | Integer |
| Default | 1 |
| Scope | Device only |
| ADMX | messaging.admx; Computer Configuration > Windows Components > Messaging |
| Supported editions | Windows 10 version 1607 and later: Pro, Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise |
The CSP documentation does not establish support for Windows Home. The Intune control is described as mobile-only, so a conventional desktop without cellular messaging hardware may show no practical effect even when the policy applies.
Choose the value
| Value | Effect | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
1 — Allow |
Message sync is permitted, and the user can change the setting. | Users need continuity across managed Windows devices and the organization accepts Microsoft cloud storage for this data. |
0 — Block |
Message sync is prohibited, and the user cannot change the setting. | Data-minimization, residency, confidentiality, or policy requirements prohibit SMS copies in Microsoft cloud services. |
The documented setting provides allow/block behavior, not a separate force-enable mode. Blocking also should not be treated as a deletion or purge workflow for messages that may already exist in the cloud.
Rank #2
- Durable Design: Reinforced nylon exterior and a robust core ensure this cable withstands up to 5,000 bends, outlasting other brands
- Fast Charging: Supports Power Delivery for up to 60W high-speed charging when paired with a USB-C charger
- Versatile Compatibility: Works with virtually all USB-C devices, including phones, tablets, and laptops
- High-Speed Data Transfer: Transfer files quickly with 480Mbps data transfer speeds
- Included Accessories: Comes with a hook-and-loop cable tie for easy organization and a welcome guide for hassle-free setup
Prerequisites and deployment planning
- An Intune-enrolled, supported Windows device.
- Administrative rights to create device configuration profiles and assign groups.
- A device group for a controlled pilot before production deployment.
- A decision about whether the organization permits cellular SMS data to be copied to Microsoft cloud services.
- Review of existing Settings Catalog, device restriction, Group Policy, imported ADMX, and custom OMA-URI policies to avoid contradictory settings.
Because the setting is device-scoped, assign it to device groups. Include exclusions deliberately and avoid assigning different values for the same setting through overlapping profiles.
Create the Intune Settings Catalog profile
- Open Intune. Sign in to the Microsoft Intune admin center with an account authorized to create device configuration policies.
- Start a profile. Go to Devices > Windows > Configuration, select Create (or + Create), choose Windows 10 and later as the platform and Settings catalog as the profile type, then select Create. Microsoft’s catalog guidance is at Settings catalog.
- Complete Basics. Use a precise name such as
Windows - Cellular Message Sync Control. A useful description is: Controls whether cellular text messages may be backed up, restored, and synchronized through Microsoft cloud services. - Add the setting. On Configuration settings, select Add settings. Search for
Allow Message SyncorAllow Message Service Cloud Sync, or browse to Messaging. Select the setting and verify that its description and identifiers correspond toAllowMessageSync. - Set the value. Choose Allow (underlying value
1) or Block (underlying value0). - Configure scope tags. Add scope tags when delegated administrators should see or manage only particular policy objects; otherwise continue.
- Assign the profile. Target a small device pilot first. After validating application and user impact, expand to production device groups. Check include and exclude assignments for unintended overlap.
- Review and create. Confirm platform, profile type, Messaging setting, value, scope tags, assignments, and exclusions, then select Create.
Portal wording can change. If the friendly label differs, the durable checks are the Messaging category and the AllowMessageSync CSP identifier.
Rank #3
- [60W USB-C to USB-C Fast Charging Cable] Deliver up to 60W (20V/3A) of power with support for PD 3.0 and QC 3.0. Quickly charge your iPhone 18/17/Duo/16 series (including iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone Duo, and iPhone 17 Air), iPad Pro, MacBook Air, and more. Also supports data transfer speeds up to 480Mbps.
- [iPhone 18/Duo/17 Pro Max Compatible Cable] Designed for the latest USB-C devices — fully compatible with iPhone 18/18 Pro/18 Pro Max/18 Air, iPhone Duo, iPhone 17/17 Pro/17 Pro Max/17 Air, iPhone 16/16 Pro/16 Pro Max/16 Plus, and iPhone 15 Series. Also supports iPad Air, iPad Pro (13/12.9/11-inch), and MacBook Air/Pro. One cable for all your USB-C device needs.
- [Durable USB C Charging Cable – 15000+ Bend Lifespan] Crafted from high-quality TPE material, this cable feels just like the original charging cord — smooth, flexible, and soft to the touch. It resists tangling and is built to withstand over 15,000 bends for long-lasting performance without cracking or fraying.
- [3-Pack 6FT Type-C Cable – Convenient Length] Includes three 6FT (1.8m) cables, perfect for use in different places like home, office, car, or travel. Enjoy freedom of movement while charging — no more being stuck next to the outlet.
- [Safe & Reliable USB-C Cable for Devices] Built-in smart chip ensures safe charging by protecting against over-voltage, overheating, and short-circuit. Certified components ensure stable performance for your high-value devices.
Monitor policy application in Intune
Open the profile’s reporting views and inspect device assignment status, succeeded devices, pending devices, conflicts, errors, and the last check-in/report time. Current Settings Catalog reporting also provides an Assignment failures view that can identify the failed setting and, where available, an error code. Reporting details are described in Microsoft’s Settings catalog documentation.
Do not promise a fixed propagation interval. Timing depends on device check-in, connectivity, enrollment state, and reporting latency. To request an earlier check-in, use Company Portal synchronization where available, or on Windows open Settings > Accounts > Access work or school > the connected work account > Info > Sync. An administrator can also use the device Sync action in the Intune admin center.
Rank #4
- DESIGNED BY APPLE — Ideal for charging, syncing, and transferring data between USB-C devices, this 2-meter charge cable is made with a woven design and has USB-C connectors on both ends.
- FAST AND CONVENIENT CHARGING — Supports charging of up to 240 watts and transfers data at USB 2 rates. Pair the USB-C Charge Cable with a compatible USB-C power adapter to conveniently charge your devices from a wall outlet and even take advantage of the fast-charging feature on select iPhone and Mac models.
- WHAT’S IN THE BOX — Apple USB-C Woven Charge Cable only. Power adapter sold separately.
- CABLE LENGTH — 2 meters (6 feet).
Verify the result on Windows
Event Viewer
On a target device, open Event Viewer > Applications and Services Logs > Microsoft > Windows > Device Management > Enterprise Diagnostic Provider > Admin. Event ID 813 is a useful signal that a policy was applied and can show the enforced value, as described in the operational walkthrough at HTMD Blog. Treat it as diagnostic evidence, not the only proof of successful feature behavior.
Registry inspection
The policy maps to HKLMSoftwarePoliciesMicrosoftWindowsMessaging and the integer value AllowMessageSync:
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Best Value
![USB C to Lightning Cable 3FT 2Pack [Apple MFi Certified] Fast Charging](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41WYxUBOFPL._SL160_.jpg)
- 【Power Delivery Fast Charging & SYNC】: USB-C to lightning cable supports high-speed power delivery fast Charging, can charge the iPhone 13 up to 50% in 30mins. They also support data transfer rate up to 480Mbps,which can easily transfer music, photos and files between iPhone and laptop or desktop computer in seconds.(Note:You need to use 20W or above USB-C Power Adapter to achieve Power Delivery Fast Charging.)
- 【MFi Certified Lightning Cable 2Pack】 MFi certified iPhone fast charging cable uses the newest C94 Lightning connector, which support quick charger for lightning device, C94 USB C to Lightning cord more stable, safe, faster than nomal iphone cable
- 【 Compatibility】: USB-C to iPhone cable supports PD Fast Charge 3A (max) for iPhone 14/14 Pro/14 Pro Max/14 Plus/ iPhone 13/13 Pro/13 Pro Max/13mini/iPhone 12/12 Mini/12 Pro/12 Pro Max/11/11 Pro/11 Pro Max/XS Max/XS/XR/X/8 Plus/8 and iPad 8th iPad 2020, iPad Pro 12.9" gen1/ gen2/iPad Pro 10.5"/iPad Air3 10.5"/iPad mini5 7.9"; Note: You need a USB-C port wall charger to achieve fast charging. Note: You need a USB-C port wall charger to achieve fast charging.
- [Super Durability and Flexibility]:The iphone charging cables are made of top-rated material and coated with premium TPE, which last 4X longer than other iphone charger cord and proven to withstand over 25,000 bends in strict laboratory tests.
- [What You Can Get]: 2Pack 3ft New USB-C to Lightning Cables (White),lifetime replacement, and 24*7 friendly customer support service ensures that you have a pleasant shopping experience.
0means blocked.1means allowed.
Use this as a diagnostic check. Do not manually edit the registry to manage the setting; validate the authoritative administrative state through Intune reporting and MDM event logs.
Troubleshoot common problems
The setting is not in the catalog
- Confirm that the profile platform is Windows 10 and later and the profile type is Settings catalog.
- Search for
AllowMessageSync, then browse the Messaging category. - Try both friendly labels: Allow Message Sync and Allow Message Service Cloud Sync.
- Confirm that the target Windows edition and version are supported.
- If the control is genuinely unavailable in the tenant, consider a custom OMA-URI profile using the documented CSP path only after validating the required SyncML format, integer data type, and tenant behavior. Use the Settings Catalog first whenever it is available.
The report shows a conflict
Look for another Settings Catalog profile, device restriction profile, imported ADMX policy, Group Policy setting, custom OMA-URI profile, or stale assignment configuring the same CSP. Also check user/device scope overlap and include/exclude group logic. Resolve the competing assignment rather than manually changing the client registry.
The user still sees a messaging option
- Confirm that the device is in the assigned group and has checked in.
- Verify that the applied value is
0if the goal is to block the feature. - Check for an overriding policy or conflict.
- Confirm that the user is looking at cellular message synchronization, not a Windows privacy permission or settings-sync option.
- Remember the mobile-only qualification; a non-cellular desktop may not expose a relevant user experience.
The device is unsupported or appears unaffected
The documented CSP begins with Windows 10 version 1607 and lists Pro, Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise editions. It does not list Home. Confirm the edition, version, Intune enrollment, cellular capability, and policy status before treating the result as a configuration failure.
Security and compliance trade-offs
Blocking reduces the chance that cellular SMS data will be copied to Microsoft cloud services and can support strict confidentiality, residency, retention, or least-privilege requirements. It also removes a convenient backup, restore, and cross-device continuity feature. Allowing the setting supports continuity but introduces an additional cloud-storage and governance consideration.
The policy documentation establishes whether future backup, restore, and synchronization is allowed; it does not establish a complete process for deleting previously synchronized cloud data. If deletion is required, use Microsoft’s applicable account-data and retention controls rather than assuming that changing this policy purges existing copies.
Quick Recap
Related policies to keep separate
| Policy | Purpose |
|---|---|
AllowMessageSync |
Cellular SMS cloud backup, restore, and synchronization between Windows devices. |
AllowMMS |
Cellular MMS sending and receiving. |
AllowRCS |
Cellular RCS sending and receiving. |
LetAppsAccessMessaging |
Whether Windows apps may read or send messages; see Microsoft’s Privacy Policy CSP. |
| SettingSync policies | Windows account and settings synchronization; see Microsoft’s SettingSync Policy CSP. |
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
