SSPR Password Writeback Flow

Enabling Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR) allows users to securely change or reset their passwords without helpdesk intervention, reducing support ticket volume. SSPR policies require administrators to define how many authentication methods are needed for verification and which specific options, such as mobile apps, SMS, or security questions, are available to users. To keep hybrid environments synchronized, password writeback securely sends password changes made in the cloud back to an on-premises Active Directory in real-time. This writeback flow utilizes an Azure Service Bus relay to communicate over outbound port 443, eliminating the need for inbound firewall rules. Accounts with administrative roles are protected by a strict two-gate password policy that requires two forms of authentication and prohibits security questions.