What Is Microsoft Defender for Identity?
Sep 23, 2022 | What is Microsoft Defender For...
In our ongoing exploration of Microsoft's Defender technologies, SecureSky turns the spotlight on Microsoft Defender for Identity, a critical component in enhancing identity security within Microsoft's comprehensive security suite.
From Antivirus to Advanced Identity Protection
The evolution of Microsoft Defender from a simple antivirus solution to a broad suite of security products under the "Defender for..." brand signifies Microsoft's commitment to providing a holistic security approach. This suite, incorporating Extended Detection and Response (XDR) technologies, aims to safeguard every aspect of the digital landscape, including identities, endpoints, applications, email, IoT, infrastructure, and cloud platforms. Despite its comprehensive coverage, navigating the suite's extensive offerings and understanding their roles and synergies can be complex.
| Technology Name | Microsoft Defender for Identity |
| Previous Name(s) | Azure Advanced Threat Protection or Azure ATP |
| Category | Identity |
| Function(s) | Microsoft Defender for Identity specializes in monitoring user and entity behaviors within Active Directory (AD) to secure stored identities and credentials. It detects suspicious activities in hybrid environments through AD event log analysis and deep packet inspection. Additionally, it offers passive configuration assessments of AD controllers' security posture, integrating seamlessly with Microsoft Sentinel for enhanced alert and incident correlation. |
| Cost Basis | Available within the Enterprise Mobility + Security E5 suite (EMS E5) and as a standalone license, providing flexible licensing options for organizations of all sizes. |
| Microsoft Links |
Elevating Identity Protection with Microsoft Defender for Identity
Microsoft Defender for Identity plays a pivotal role in protecting against identity-based threats, offering advanced detection capabilities and proactive security measures. By monitoring and analyzing user and entity behaviors, Defender for Identity helps organizations to preemptively identify and mitigate potential security breaches, ensuring the integrity of user identities and credentials.
Strategic Benefits of Microsoft Defender for Identity:
- Comprehensive Monitoring: Offers in-depth insights into user and entity behaviors within Active Directory, enhancing the detection of suspicious activities.
- Advanced Threat Detection: Utilizes AD event logs and deep packet inspection to identify potential threats, providing a robust defense mechanism against identity theft and credential compromise.
- Seamless Integration: Works in conjunction with Microsoft Sentinel, allowing for efficient alert and incident correlation, streamlining the response to identity-based threats.
As part of Microsoft's Defender suite, Microsoft Defender for Identity is essential for organizations seeking to strengthen their identity security posture. Its advanced monitoring and threat detection capabilities make it an invaluable tool for safeguarding user identities and credentials in today's complex hybrid environments.
For more information about the Microsoft Defender product line, please feel free to contact us by completing our contact form or emailing info@securesky.com.