AZ-104 Microsoft Azure Administrator Exam

Implement Self-Service Password Reset Policies

Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR) is a tool that allows users to reset or change their passwords without needing help from the IT department. This not only reduces the number of support calls but also cuts down on the time workers are locked out of their accounts. For SSPR to work, it needs to be both enabled and correctly configured within the Microsoft Entra admin center, specifically under Password Reset > Properties. Here, you can decide which group of users will have access to SSPR.

To define authentication methods, navigate to Password Reset > Authentication methods. This section allows you to set the number of methods users must register for authentication. Some commonly used methods include:

• Mobile phone (either through SMS or calls)
• Email
• Security questions

You can determine the minimum and maximum number of methods required and choose which methods should be available for all users. It's crucial for every user to register at least two contact options in order to adhere to policy settings that necessitate multiple verification steps.

Notification settings in SSPR ensure that users remain informed and secure during the password reset process. Typically, after a successful password change, reset confirmation emails are sent out automatically. The system allows you to customize the Contact your administrator link in the reset portal to lead to an internal support URL or email. If notifying admins for each reset is not ideal, you can:

• Disable automatic admin email notifications
• Replace the contact link with a webpage URL for support

These adjustments help maintain consistent communication and offer clear guidance to end users throughout the reset process.

When implementing SSPR policies, it's essential to follow certain best practices:

• Enable SSPR for either a selected group or all users to manage how widely it is initially used.
• Ensure you assign the appropriate licenses to both administrators and end users.
• Use nested groups if you have complex access requirements.
• Regularly review the SSPR usage and troubleshooting table for frequent issues such as missing contact data, limits on requests, or wrongly formatted phone numbers.

With careful planning and regular monitoring, SSPR can run effectively and securely across an organization.

In conclusion, configuring self-service password reset policies in Azure involves setting authentication methods, registration requirements, and details such as notification settings to improve security and user experience. By adhering to best practices and understanding SSPR's features, organizations can significantly reduce support loads while keeping users productive and secure.