Implementing Endpoint Privilege Management in Microsoft 365

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through implementing Endpoint Privilege Management (EPM) in Microsoft 365. EPM enhances security by managing administrative privileges for users, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access and potential security breaches. By following these steps, you can ensure your organization effectively utilizes EPM features to safeguard sensitive information.

Step 1: Understand Local Admin Accounts

• Assess the current state of local admin accounts within your organization.
• Reduce the number of local admin accounts to only those that are necessary.
• Keep in mind that local admin accounts can pose a security risk if not managed properly.

Step 2: Review Licensing Requirements

• Confirm that your organization has the appropriate licenses for implementing Endpoint Privilege Management.
• EPM is included with certain Microsoft 365 licenses, so check your licensing details.

Step 3: Access the Microsoft Endpoint Manager Admin Center

• Log in to the Microsoft Endpoint Manager admin center.
• Navigate to the Devices section to begin configuring EPM.

Step 4: Create Elevation Settings Policy

1. In the admin center, go to Endpoint security.
2. Select Account protection.
3. Click on Create policy and choose Endpoint Privilege Management.
4. Fill in the required policy details:
   • Name the policy clearly to identify its purpose.
   • Select the platforms (Windows 10, etc.) that the policy will apply to.
5. Configure the elevation settings according to your organization's needs:
   • Set rules for when and how users can elevate their privileges.

Step 5: User Experience with EPM

• Users will receive prompts for privilege elevation when attempting to perform tasks that require admin access.
• Ensure users are trained to understand these prompts and know how to respond appropriately.

Step 6: Create Elevation Rules Policy

1. Return to the Endpoint security section.
2. Select Create policy and choose Elevation rules.
3. Define the rules:
   • Specify the applications or tasks that require elevated privileges.
   • Determine the conditions under which elevation is granted.
4. Name your elevation rules policy and save it.

Step 7: Monitor and Adjust Policies

• After implementation, monitor the effectiveness of the EPM policies.
• Collect feedback from users and adjust policies as necessary to improve the balance between security and usability.

Conclusion

Implementing Endpoint Privilege Management in Microsoft 365 is a crucial step towards enhancing your organization's security posture. By understanding local admin accounts, meeting licensing requirements, and carefully configuring elevation settings and rules, you can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Continue to monitor and refine your EPM policies to ensure they meet your organization's evolving security needs. For further learning, consider joining the Microsoft 365 Mastery Group or downloading guides that provide additional insights into optimizing your Microsoft 365 environment.