AZ-800 Administering Windows Server Hybrid Core Infrastructure Exam

Deploy and Configure NPS for Hybrid Azure Authentication

The Network Policy Server (NPS) role lets administrators define authentication, authorization, and network access rules through RADIUS. In hybrid Azure AD environments, you can configure NPS to connect on-premises networks with Azure AD using RADIUS requests. By integrating Azure Multifactor Authentication (MFA) and certificate validation, organizations can enforce granular access control for VPN and Wi-Fi connections. This section explains how to deploy and configure NPS for hybrid Azure authentication. Understanding these steps helps ensure a secure, seamless user experience across on-premises and cloud networks.

Before NPS can enforce Azure MFA, each user must be enrolled for multifactor verification. This involves registering a verification method in Microsoft Entra ID. Key steps include:

• Signing into the Azure MFA setup portal.
• Choosing a verification method such as SMS, authenticator app, or hardware token.
• Completing the registration process in Azure MFA settings.

To connect NPS with Azure MFA, install the NPS Extension on the server handling RADIUS requests. The extension forwards authentication challenges to Azure AD and processes responses. Installation steps include:

• Downloading the extension from the Microsoft Download Center.
• Running the setup executable and verifying prerequisites.
• Executing the provided PowerShell script to create certificates and update service principals in Microsoft Entra ID.

After installation, administrators can refine access control with custom policies. You may need to map on-premises UPNs to cloud IDs using alternate sign-in IDs by editing registry keys under HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\AzureMfa. IP exceptions can be set to allow specific resources to bypass MFA for service continuity, ensuring that essential connections remain uninterrupted. Policies are managed in the NPS console under Connection Request Policies and Network Policies. Fine-tuning these policies helps maintain both security and usability.

Integrating NPS with hybrid Azure AD and certificate-based authentication delivers multiple benefits. It offers enhanced security through enforced MFA and certificate checks. Organizations gain granular access control, allowing only verified users on approved devices to connect. Deployment via scripted steps improves operational efficiency and scales easily. Overall, this setup bridges on-premises infrastructure with Azure security services seamlessly.

Conclusion

In summary, implementing the Network Policy and Access Services role in a hybrid Azure environment involves deploying NPS as a RADIUS server, enrolling users for Azure MFA, installing the NPS Extension, and configuring tailored network policies. These actions ensure that on-premises and cloud resources are protected by multi-factor and certificate-based authentication. Key benefits include improved security, precise access control, and simplified management. Mastery of these tasks helps administrators secure network access effectively in a hybrid world.