Microsoft Entra ID P1 vs. P2
Managing digital identities is one of the most critical challenges modern IT teams faces—and the situation at SecureTech was no exception. Their growing user base, hybrid workforce, and evolving security threats were pushing the limits of their identity and access management (IAM) capabilities. Alex, the head of IT, was under pressure to find a solution that would enhance security and streamline operations.
The Discovery
During a routine review of their Microsoft 365 E3 and E5 licenses, Alex made a surprising discovery—SecureTech already had access to Microsoft Entra ID P1 and P2 capabilities. These advanced identity and access management tools were built into their existing licensing but had gone unused. This revelation was a game-changer! Realizing the untapped potential, Alex and the team quickly got to work evaluating the benefits of each license type.
What’s Included in Microsoft Entra ID P1?
The team quickly discovered that Entra ID P1 offered a solid foundation for identity management, providing essential tools to secure access and enhance productivity across the organization.
Conditional Access
By enforcing granular access policies based on user risk level, location, or device, SecureTech could now control access with greater precision—allowing only authorized users access to sensitive data.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
By requiring multiple forms of verification, SecureTech could reduce the risk of unauthorized access, which is crucial in protecting the company's digital assets.
Self-Service Password Reset
SecureTech could now empower their employees to reset their own passwords without burdening the helpdesk, thereby improving operational efficiency and user satisfaction.
Single Sign-On (SSO)
Simplifying the user experience with one set of credentials to access all enterprise applications could boost productivity and user satisfaction.
Microsoft Entra ID P2
While P1 laid the groundwork, P2 added robust, enterprise-grade features to elevate SecureTech’s identity system.
Identity Protection
Providing risk-based conditional access and automated responses to suspicious activities, this feature could proactively addressed potential threats for the company, enhancing overall security.
Privileged Identity Management (PIM)
PIM would allow SecureTech to manage, control, and monitor access to critical resources, ensuring that only authorized personnel had elevated privileges, reducing the risk of security breaches.
Access Reviews
Regular access reviews would ensure that users had the appropriate access levels, reducing the risk of overprivileged accounts and improving compliance.
Entitlement Management
For SecureTech, this feature would streamline the process of managing access to resources, making it easier for employees to request and gain access to the tools they need.
The Implementation
Armed with a clear picture of what Microsoft Entra ID P1 and P2 could offer, Alex presented the findings to leadership. Since the tools were already included in their licensing, only the implementation effort remained. They were thrilled to learn the capabilities were already included in their existing licenses - meaning no additional licensing costs, just the implementation lift. Energized by the opportunity, the IT team got to work integrating Entra ID P1 and P2 into their infrastructure, turning untapped potential into real, measurable value.
The Transformation
The implementation brought about a significant transformation at SecureTech. Once deployed, the benefits were immediate:
- Improved security posture through proactive risk management
- Operational efficiency via automation and self-service tools
- Stronger user experience with seamless access and fewer support needs
Microsoft Entra ID Governance
Inspired by their success, SecureTech is now preparing to adopt Microsoft Entra ID Governance, a next-generation identity governance solution. Key features include:
Identity Lifecycle Management
Automate the creation, maintenance and removal of user identities based on signals from HR systems like Workday or SuccessFactors.
Access Lifecycle Management
Manage access requests, assignments, reviews and expirations to ensure the right people have the right access to the right resources.
Privileged Access Management
Secure privileged access for administration by monitoring and auditing Access to critical assets.
Entra Suite
Looking ahead, SecureTech then set their sights on the comprehensive Microsoft Entra Suite. The suite promised to integrate all their identity and access management needs into a single, cohesive platform, offering even greater security and efficiency. Key features of Microsoft Entra Suite include:
Entra Private Access
Provides Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) for on-premises apps without code changes, replacing legacy VPNs.
Entra Internet Access
Protects against threats from the open internet, ensuring safe access to SaaS apps and internet traffic.
Entra ID Protection
Blocks identity compromise in real-time using high-assurance authentication methods and adaptive access policies powered by advanced machine learning.
Entra Verified ID
Enables real-time identity verification in a secure and privacy-respecting way.
The Future
With the successful implementation of Microsoft Entra ID P1 and P2, and plans for Microsoft Entra ID Governance and Microsoft Entra Suite on the horizon, SecureTech was well on its way to becoming a model for enhancing security and efficiency through effective identity and access management. Alex and the IT team earned well-deserved recognition for their foresight and commitment to strengthening the company’s identity strategy.
GCA is an official Microsoft strategic partner. Microsoft, Microsoft Entra ID, Microsoft Entra Suite and Microsoft 365 are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.
