Microsoft has taken a significant step in network security with the introduction of App Discovery in Microsoft Entra Private Access. This new feature, which was presented at the Ignite conference, supports the Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) approach and is intended to replace traditional VPN solutions. The goal is to improve the security and usability of modern access controls and to help companies implement their zero trust strategy.
The most important things in brief
- Entra Private Access: Modern zero trust solution as an alternative to VPNs for secure access to resources.
- App Discovery: Automatic analysis makes configuration easier and saves time.
- Strategic focus: Microsoft is strengthening Zero Trust and planning further innovations.
Configure Entra Private Access correctly: We help you implement Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) with Entra Private Access in a timely and thoughtful manner
1. What is Microsoft Entra Private Access?
Entra Private Access is Microsoft's answer to the challenges of traditional VPNs. It is based on an identity-centered zero trust model. It ensures that only authorized users have access to applications and resources.
This assurance is carried out in the background by Microsoft Conditional Access and is seamlessly implemented in single sign-on with M365 user credentials. This approach not only makes network security more modern, but also much more flexible. The platform also impresses with its easy implementation and integration into existing IT environments.
2. The innovation: App Discovery
The new App Discovery feature significantly simplifies the use and implementation of Entra Private Access. It is a significant step to lower barriers to entry and help administrators configure.
The challenge so far
Until now, administrators had to laboriously find out which IP addresses, DNS names, or ports were needed to correctly configure applications. This was a major challenge, particularly for poorly documented applications. In addition, it was necessary to manually determine the group of people who needed access to certain applications. Such time-consuming tasks often led to delays and an increased risk of errors.
The solution: Automated analysis
App Discovery gives administrators a comprehensive overview of how applications are being used on the corporate network. You can see exactly which applications are being used and by whom. On this basis, private applications can be created with precise segmentation and minimal access to rights (least privilege) — this reduces unnecessary access and strengthens security.
App Discovery automatically analyzes network traffic and identifies relevant configuration parameters such as IPs, ports, and user groups. Within 1 to 2 weeks, the analysis provides precise suggestions that administrators can implement directly. This is particularly helpful when manufacturers provide inadequate documentation. Automated analysis relieves IT teams and ensures that even complex applications are seamlessly integrated into Zero Trust infrastructure can be integrated.
With App Discovery, Microsoft is setting new standards for network security — automated analyses make Zero Trust easier and more efficient. ”
Thore Lenz, managing director of SOFTTAILOR
3. Benefits of App Discovery
- saving time: The automated recognition and analysis of configuration parameters significantly reduces manual effort.
- simplicity: Automatic suggestions make configuration easier, especially for poorly documented applications.
- Improved user experience: Easy entry and efficient use increase acceptance among companies and promote rapid implementation.
- Mitigate errors: Automated analysis reduces the risk of misconfigurations, which increases overall security.
4. Potential risks with app discovery
Despite the benefits, automating configuration suggestions also involves risks. If the proposed rules are not sufficiently reviewed, there is a risk of freeing up too many permissions or unnecessary resources. Companies should therefore always question and manually check the suggestions generated by App Discovery to ensure that they meet individual security requirements. A conscious approach to the suggestions is crucial to ensure a high level of safety.
5. Strategic importance
With Entra Private Access, Microsoft is consistently using Zero Trust and plans to further expand this concept. Entra Private Access is an independent licensed product within the Entra Suite and is positioned as the key to a secure and future-proof network infrastructure.
Integrating App Discovery is an important step to make it easier for companies to get started and increase the value of the platform. In addition to saving time and making it easier to implement, App Discovery offers the opportunity to set new standards for network security in the long term.
The continuous development of the Entra Suite and the focus on Zero Trust could help companies make their IT infrastructure even more efficient and secure. In view of the increasing threats in the cybersecurity sector, this approach is essential to sustainably protect data and applications.
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6. Conclusion
With App Discovery in Microsoft Entra Private Access, Microsoft offers a modern solution to replace traditional VPNs and revolutionize network security. The automated analysis function saves time, reduces complexity, and makes implementation easy. Companies benefit from a secure, efficient and user-friendly ZTNA solution that is ideally suited to the requirements of modern networks. At the same time, Microsoft's position as a leading provider in the area of zero trust is being strengthened.
Since 2011, Thore has focused exclusively on endpoint management and endpoint security topics. Initially focused on software packaging and software distribution with Microsoft MECM/SCCM and Ivanti DSM, he is now a sought-after interlocutor when it comes to unified endpoint management, system hardening, patch management and endpoint protection. The focus is in particular on the Microsoft technologies Intune, Configuration Manager, Entra and Defender. Thore is co-founder of the “Endpoint Management” expert group at IAMCP e.V.
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