MSPs can enhance security in Entra ID (formerly Azure AD) by implementing best practices around identity protection, access management, and governance. Here’s a comprehensive approach:

1. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

• Use Conditional Access to enforce MFA for all users, especially admins.
• Enable phishing-resistant MFA methods like FIDO2 security keys or Microsoft Authenticator’s number matching.

2. Implement Conditional Access Policies

• Block access from risky sign-ins and unknown locations.
• Require compliant devices for sensitive applications.
• Enforce Just-In-Time (JIT) access for admins.

3. Use Entra ID Protection

• Detect and respond to compromised identities.
• Enable risk-based sign-in policies to block high-risk users.
• Automate user risk remediation.

4. Secure Privileged Access with Entra ID PIM

• Implement Privileged Identity Management (PIM) to provide Just-In-Time (JIT) admin access.
• Require approval workflows for privileged role activation.
• Enforce MFA for admin role activation.

5. Monitor & Audit with Entra ID Logs

• Enable audit logs and integrate with SIEM solutions like Microsoft Sentinel.
• Set up alerts for suspicious activities (e.g., mass password resets, impossible travel).
• Regularly review access logs for anomalies.

6. Implement Least Privilege Access (Zero Trust)

• Assign users only the roles they need (RBAC model).
• Regularly review and remove unnecessary access.
• Use Access Reviews for periodic role validation.

7. Secure Guest & External Access

• Limit guest user permissions with external collaboration settings.
• Require MFA for guest users.
• Restrict external sharing of sensitive data.

8. Enable Passwordless Authentication

• Implement Windows Hello for Business, FIDO2 security keys, or Passkeys.
• Reduce password reliance to mitigate phishing risks.

9. Protect Against Legacy Authentication

• Disable legacy authentication (e.g., SMTP, POP, IMAP).
• Enforce Modern Authentication for all apps.

10. Use Defender for Identity & Microsoft Sentinel

• Deploy Defender for Identity to detect identity-based threats.
• Integrate Entra ID logs with Microsoft Sentinel for real-time threat hunting.

Key Takeaway for MSPs

By implementing Zero Trust principles, enforcing Conditional Access policies, and leveraging Microsoft’s security tools, MSPs can significantly reduce identity-related risks in Entra ID.

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