Conditional Access is a feature within Microsoft Entra ID that applies rules to control when and how users can sign in to Microsoft 365 and connected applications. Rather than treating every sign-in attempt the same way, Conditional Access evaluates factors such as the user's location, the device they are using and the assessed risk level, then requires additional verification or blocks access entirely where appropriate.
How Conditional Access works
A Conditional Access policy combines conditions, such as sign-in location, device type or detected risk, with controls, such as requiring multi-factor authentication, requiring a compliant device managed through Microsoft Intune, or blocking access outright. For example, a policy might allow straightforward sign-in from the office network but require multi-factor authentication and a managed device for anyone signing in from elsewhere.
Conditional Access in practice for UK businesses
- A business requires multi-factor authentication for any sign-in from outside the office, while allowing trusted office locations to sign in without the extra step.
- An IT team blocks sign-in attempts from countries where the business has no staff or operations, reducing exposure to common attack patterns.
- A company requires devices to be compliant with Microsoft Intune policies, such as having encryption enabled, before allowing access to company email and SharePoint.
- A business uses risk-based Conditional Access to automatically challenge sign-ins that Microsoft's security systems flag as unusual, such as an impossible travel pattern between two sign-in attempts.
How Advantage configures Conditional Access
Advantage designs and implements Conditional Access policies as a core part of every cyber security engagement, balancing strong protection against unauthorised access with a sign-in experience that does not unnecessarily slow down legitimate staff. Find out more about our cyber security services.
Frequently asked questions
Does Conditional Access require Microsoft 365 Premium or Enterprise licensing?
Conditional Access requires Microsoft Entra ID P1 licensing, which is included in some Microsoft 365 Business and Enterprise plans but not all. Advantage can confirm whether your current licensing includes Conditional Access or what upgrade would be needed.
What is a typical Conditional Access policy for a small business?
A common baseline policy requires multi-factor authentication for all users when signing in from outside a trusted location, while allowing more straightforward access from the office network. More mature setups add device compliance checks and risk-based sign-in evaluation.
Can Conditional Access block access from specific countries?
Yes. Conditional Access policies can be configured to block or challenge sign-in attempts from specific countries or regions, which is a common control for businesses that have no legitimate reason for staff to be signing in from certain locations.
