Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR), and Conditional Access are three essential security features in Microsoft 365 that work together to protect organizational resources and user identities.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) requires users to verify their identity…Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR), and Conditional Access are three essential security features in Microsoft 365 that work together to protect organizational resources and user identities.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) requires users to verify their identity using two or more authentication methods before gaining access. These methods fall into three categories: something you know (password), something you have (phone or security key), and something you are (biometrics like fingerprint or facial recognition). MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access even if passwords become compromised, as attackers would need multiple verification factors.
Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR) empowers users to reset their own passwords through a secure verification process. Users can authenticate using methods such as mobile app notifications, phone calls, security questions, or email verification. SSPR reduces helpdesk calls, improves user productivity, and maintains security by requiring users to prove their identity before changing credentials. Administrators can configure which authentication methods are available and how many are required.
Conditional Access policies act as intelligent gatekeepers that evaluate signals and make access decisions based on organizational policies. These signals include user identity, device health, location, application being accessed, and risk level. Based on these conditions, policies can allow access, require additional verification through MFA, limit access to specific applications, or block access entirely. For example, an organization might allow full access from managed devices on the corporate network but require MFA when users connect from external locations.
Together, these features create a layered security approach. MFA strengthens authentication, SSPR maintains password security while improving user experience, and Conditional Access provides dynamic, context-aware protection. Organizations can implement these features through Azure Active Directory, configuring them to match their specific security requirements and risk tolerance levels.
MFA, SSPR, and Conditional Access Security - Complete Guide
Why This Topic Is Important
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR), and Conditional Access are foundational security features in Microsoft 365. Understanding these concepts is critical for the MS-900 exam because they represent Microsoft's approach to identity protection and Zero Trust security. These features protect organizational data from unauthorized access and reduce helpdesk costs.
What Is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
MFA is a security feature that requires users to provide two or more verification methods to prove their identity. These factors include:
• Something you know - Password or PIN • Something you have - Phone, hardware token, or authenticator app • Something you are - Biometrics like fingerprint or facial recognition
MFA significantly reduces the risk of compromised accounts because attackers would need multiple forms of verification.
What Is Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR)?
SSPR allows users to reset their own passwords or unlock their accounts using pre-registered authentication methods. This reduces helpdesk calls and improves user productivity. Users can verify their identity through:
• Mobile app notification or code • Email to alternate address • Text message or phone call • Security questions
What Is Conditional Access?
Conditional Access is a feature in Azure Active Directory that enforces access policies based on specific conditions. It acts as an if-then policy engine: IF a user wants to access a resource, THEN they must complete an action.
Conditions evaluated include: • User or group membership • IP location or geographic location • Device platform and compliance state • Application being accessed • Risk level detected
Access controls can: • Block access entirely • Grant access with requirements (MFA, compliant device, approved app)
How These Features Work Together
These three features integrate to create a comprehensive identity protection strategy:
1. Conditional Access policies can require MFA when risky sign-in behavior is detected 2. SSPR enables users to recover access while maintaining security through verification 3. All three support the Zero Trust model: never trust, always verify
Exam Tips: Answering Questions on MFA, SSPR, and Conditional Access
• Remember the factors: MFA requires TWO or more different types of authentication factors
• Know the licensing: Basic MFA is included in all Microsoft 365 plans; Conditional Access requires Azure AD Premium P1 or higher
• Understand Conditional Access logic: It evaluates signals (who, where, what device) and enforces decisions (allow, block, require MFA)
• SSPR reduces costs: When asked about reducing helpdesk workload for password issues, SSPR is the answer
• Conditional Access is policy-based: Questions about enforcing MFA only in certain situations point to Conditional Access
• Location matters: Conditional Access can block or allow access based on trusted locations or named locations
• Device compliance: Conditional Access can require devices to be marked as compliant by Intune
• Look for Zero Trust keywords: Questions mentioning verification at every access point relate to these technologies
• Security Defaults: This is a free baseline protection that enables MFA for all users - good for organizations not using Conditional Access
• Combined registration: Users can register for both MFA and SSPR in a single experience