Setting Up Multi-Factor Authentication in Microsoft 365: Benefits and Steps
Cyber security threats are a persistent challenge that demand proactive measures. One reliable method to reinforce your security protocols is by implementing Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) within your Microsoft 365 ecosystem. MFA in Microsoft 365 adds an essential layer of security by requiring multiple forms of verification. This not only deters unauthorised access but also plays a significant role in a holistic security strategy.
What is Multifactor Authentication (MFA)?
Authentication is the foundation of online security. Traditional security measures have largely relied on a username and password. However, as hacking techniques have become more advanced, this level of security is often insufficient. MFA adds another layer to this process, requiring two or more verification methods to ensure the user is who they claim to be.
Understanding the different types of authentication factors is key to grasping how MFA works. Each factor represents a different category of methods for verifying someone’s identity. The idea is to combine these different types of proof for a more secure form of authentication. The three main categories are:
- Something you know: This typically involves knowledge-based information like a password, a PIN, or answers to secret questions.
- Something you have: This refers to a physical device such as a smartphone, a security token, or a smart card.
- Something you are: This includes biometric features like fingerprints, retina scans, or facial recognition.
Why Is MFA Important?
The risks of relying solely on passwords are real, as evidenced by the growing number of cyber security incidents. MFA adds an additional layer of defence, which significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access.
Various industry regulations often require stringent security measures. MFA is a practical way to meet these standards and may even be a requirement under certain regulations.
Prerequisites: Before You Begin
Prior to setting up MFA, it’s important to check a few prerequisites. First, you’ll need Global Admin permissions to manage MFA settings. Additionally, if you’re using older security measures like legacy per-user MFA, those will need to be deactivated.
How to Set Up MFA in Microsoft 365
Security defaults are Microsoft 365’s built-in security settings that offer a solid level of protection for most organisations. Here’s how to activate or deactivate these settings:
- Sign In: Access the Microsoft 365 admin centre with your global admin credentials.
- Navigate to Settings: On the left navigation panel, click Show All, then Microsoft Entra ID.
- Select Properties: You'll find this under Microsoft Entra ID > Properties.
- Enable or Disable: Scroll down to Manage Security defaults. Choose Yes to enable or No to disable, then hit Save.
Conditional Access policies are ideal for organisations that require more customised security settings. These policies allow you to create specific conditions under which certain security measures will be activated.
- Log In: First, log into the Microsoft 365 admin centre.
- Go to Policies: Navigate to the Conditional Access - Policies page.
- Customise: Here, you can create and define policies that are tailored to the specific needs of your organisation.
Turn On Modern Authentication
For those using older Microsoft 365 subscriptions, modern authentication might not be enabled by default. This feature is critical for the proper functioning of MFA.
- Access Settings: In the Microsoft 365 admin centre, go to Settings > Org settings.
- Enable Modern Authentication: Under the Services tab, ensure that Enable Modern authentication is checked. Save your changes.
Your Security Matters…
Improving your organisation’s security measures is an ongoing responsibility that should never be overlooked. Implementing MFA provides an essential layer of security that shields your organisation from various cyber threats, and by adopting these best practices, you’re not just fulfilling a security requirement; you’re making a long-term commitment to the safety and integrity of your organisation’s data.
If you’re looking for expertise in setting up and managing Microsoft 365 services, including advanced security features like MFA, look no further than Trimble Networks. Our team of experts can help you overcome the complexities of modern cyber security, ensuring that your organisation is both protected and compliant. Contact us today to learn how we can help you take your security measures to the next level.