Identity Governance ensures the right people have the right access at the right time. Microsoft Entra ID Governance automates this process.
The Challenge
Permission Growth
Over time, users accumulate permissions:
- New projects, new accesses
- Department changes without rights cleanup
- Temporary permissions become permanent
- Former employees retain access
Compliance Requirements
Regulations require:
- Demonstrable access controls
- Regular recertification
- Audit trails
- Prompt deprovisioning
Core Functions
Entitlement Management
Access packages for self-service:
- Access Packages – Bundled permissions
- Catalogs – Organized resource collections
- Policies – Who can request what
- Approval Workflows – Structured approvals
Access Reviews
Regular verification:
- Who reviews? – Manager, resource owner, self-review
- Frequency – Monthly, quarterly, annually
- Scope – Groups, applications, roles
- Automatic actions – On non-confirmation
Lifecycle Workflows
Automation on HR events:
- Joiner – New employees receive base access
- Mover – Adjust on department change
- Leaver – Automatic deprovisioning
Implementation
Step 1: Inventory
- Capture all applications and resources
- Document current permissions
- Perform data classification
Step 2: Policy Design
- Define access packages
- Establish approval workflows
- Determine review cycles
Step 3: Rollout
- Start with non-critical resources
- Collect feedback
- Gradually expand
Step 4: Automation
- HR integration for lifecycle
- Set up automatic reviews
- Establish reporting
Benefits
For Security
- No orphaned accounts
- Minimal permissions
- Traceable decisions
For Compliance
- Audit-ready documentation
- Demonstrable controls
- Automated reports
For IT
- Less manual work
- Reduced support load
- Clear processes
Conclusion
Identity Governance is indispensable for modern organizations. Microsoft Entra ID Governance provides all necessary tools. CNEXT helps with conception and introduction.