Advantages of Using Conditional Access
Passwords have presented a major security concern as long as they’ve existed. Eighty-one percent of security incidents occur due to stolen or weak passwords. In addition, employees regularly neglect the basics of good cyber hygiene.
For instance, 61% of workers use the same password for multiple platforms. 43% have shared their passwords with others for a variety of reasons. These factors show why compromised credentials represent the main cause of data breaches.
Access and identity management have risen as a priority for multiple organizations. This rise directly correlates to the rise of the cloud, as well as the common practice of people needing to only enter a username and password to access cloud systems.
Once a cybercriminal obtains a copy of an employee’s login, they can access the account and any company or customer data that it contains. This kind of theft is especially problematic when the credentials open an account like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace. These big cloud accounts access things like cloud storage and user email.
Below, we’ll explain “conditional access”, including how it works with multi-factor authentication (MFA). We’ll also review the advantages of shifting to a conditional access process.
What Is Conditional Access?
Conditional access, also known as contextual access, is a method of controlling user access. Think of it as several “if/then” statements, meaning “if” this thing is present, “then” do this.
For example, conditional access allows the administrator to set a rule stating the following. “If a user is logging in from outside the country, then require a one-time-passcode.”
Conditional access allows a company to add multiple conditions to users’ ability to access to a system. It is typically used in combination with MFA. This combo improves access security without excessive barriers to authorized users.
A few of the most common contextual factors used include:
- IP address
- Geographic location
- Time of day
- The device used
- Role or group the user belongs to
Conditional access for Microsoft tools and compatible apps can be set up in Azure Active Directory. It can also be set up in another identity and access management tool. Getting the assistance of your IT partner streamlines the process.
Benefits of Implementing Conditional Access for Identity Management
Improves Security
Using conditional access improves security, allowing more flexibility in challenging user legitimacy. Contextual access doesn’t just grant access to anyone with a username and password. Instead, the user must meet certain requirements.
Contextual access can be set to block any login attempts from countries where no employees are. It can also present an extra verification question when employees use an unrecognized device.
Automates the Access Management Process
Once the if/then statements are set up, the system takes over. Conditional access automates the monitoring for contextual factors and takes the appropriate defined actions. This automation reduces the burden on administrative IT teams. It also ensures that no given team mate is falling between the cracks.
Automated processes are usually more accurate and reliable than manual processes when set up correctly. Automation removes the human error component. Processes like these help ensure that each condition is being verified for every single login.
Allows Restriction of Certain Activities
Conditional access isn’t just for keeping unauthorized users out of business accounts. Companies also use it in other ways. One of the most frequent is to restrict the activities that legitimate users can do.
For example, the IT team can restrict access to data or settings based on a user’s role in the system. You can also use conditions in combination, such as lowering permissions to view-only. Variable permissions could trigger if a user holds a certain role and is logging in from an unknown device.
Improves the User Login Experience
Studies show that up to 67% of businesses aren’t using multi-factor authentication. Despite the fact that it’s one of the most effective methods to stop credential breaches, too many feel it’s not worth the time to understand.
One of the biggest reasons stated for avoiding it is because of the inconvenience factor for employees. They may complain that it interferes with productivity, or feel that it makes it harder for them to use their business apps and software.
Using conditional access with MFA can greatly improve the user experience. For instance, you can require MFA only if users are off the premises. Another option is to put in place extra challenge questions on a role or context-based basis. Setting variables like these keeps all users from being inconvenienced.
Enforces the Rule of Least Privilege
The rule of least privilege offers a security best practice. This rule means only granting the lowest level of access in a system needed for a user to do their work. Once you have defined roles set up in your identity management system, you can base access on those roles.
Conditional access simplifies restricting access to data or functions because you can base this on job needs. It streamlines identity management. It accomplishes this by containing all functions in the same system for access and MFA rules. Everything stays together, making management simpler.
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