As organizations adopt cloud-first strategies, the old security perimeter has vanished. Nowadays, identity and access management are key to effective cybersecurity. Microsoft Entra provides a comprehensive solution for controlling access to resources, including who has access, when, and how, across both Microsoft and third-party platforms.
What Is Microsoft Entra?
Microsoft Entra is a comprehensive identity and access management (IAM) platform that builds upon and extends Azure Active Directory. It integrates several essential tools into one unified system:
- Entra ID (formerly Azure Active Directory)
- Entra Permissions Management
- Entra Verified ID
- Entra Workload Identities
- Entra Internet Access and Private Access (Microsoft's secure gateway offerings)
These services help businesses implement access policies, manage permissions, and secure user identities across both internal and external software environments.
Key Security Features in Microsoft Entra -
| Security Feature | Description | Availability |
| Conditional Access | Enforce policies based on user, device, location, risk level, app sensitivity, and more. | P1 and P2 |
| Identity Protection | Detect and automatically respond to risky sign-ins and compromised accounts. | P2 |
| Privileged Identity Management | Time-bound or approval-based access to sensitive roles, with auditing and review. | P2 |
| Entra Internet Access | A secure web gateway as a service. Controls internet access and enforces policy using Microsoft’s threat intelligence. | Add-On |
| Web Content Filtering | Blocks malicious or non-compliant web categories (e.g., gambling, adult content) | With Defender or EIA |
| Cross-App Policies | Apply policies not just to Microsoft apps, but also Google Workspace, Salesforce, Dropbox. | P1 and P2 |
| Verified ID | Enables decentralized identity validation. | Available |
| Workload Identities | Secure, monitor, and manage non-human accounts. | P2 |
Understanding Entra P1 vs. P2
Selecting the appropriate version of Microsoft Entra depends on your organization's specific needs.
- Entra P1 provides essential identity security features and is suitable for basic access management and conditional access controls.
- Entra P2 is tailored for enterprises with more demanding security and compliance requirements. It includes advanced features such as identity protection, access reviews, and privileged identity management.
Why Microsoft Entra Is Critical for All SaaS Apps
Microsoft Entra not only secures Microsoft 365 but also provides robust identity control for third-party applications, utilizing protocols such as SAML, OIDC, and SCIM. This enables businesses to implement consistent security policies across platforms such as Salesforce, Dropbox, and ServiceNow. By adopting a centralized identity and access management (IAM) approach, organizations can enhance visibility and reduce risk.
The Role of an MSP: Security Partner or Risk Amplifier?
A misconfigured Microsoft Entra environment poses a significant security risk, extending beyond mere technical errors. Excessive permissions, poorly enforced policies, and incomplete configurations can leave your business vulnerable to unnecessary threats. This is where iCorps Technologies can help. With over 30 years of experience as a trusted Managed Service Provider (MSP), we focus not only on reacting to threats but also on preventing them.
At iCorps, we proactively secure your Entra environment by applying the principle of least privilege, conducting regular access reviews, and implementing real-time threat detection. Our expert team ensures that policies are enforced, environments are optimized, and your data remains protected. With iCorps, you're not just receiving IT support; you're gaining a security-first partner dedicated to your long-term success.
Identity Is Security
As cloud applications grow, securing digital identities is mission-critical. Microsoft Entra enables centralized identity and access management across Microsoft 365 and third-party services. With expert guidance from iCorps Technologies, your organization can reduce risk, meet compliance standards, and secure hybrid cloud environments.
Complimentary Microsoft Entra Security Assessment
iCorps offers a complimentary Microsoft Entra review to evaluate your identity security posture, identify vulnerabilities, and ensure regulatory and business alignment.
*For qualified organizations, this assessment requires read-only access to your Microsoft Entra ID/Tenant via the Partner Platform. The process is secure, fast, and ensures no impact to your environment.*
