Microsoft Entra ID Introduces Temporary Access Passes for Internal Guests

In an exciting update for IT administrators and security professionals, Microsoft Entra ID now supports Temporary Access Passes (TAPs) specifically for internal guest users. This fresh capability is designed to simplify the onboarding process for passwordless authentication and streamline account recovery procedures. Let’s dive into the details and explore how this feature can impact both security and operational efficiency for organizations using Windows and Microsoft 365.

What are Temporary Access Passes (TAPs)?​

Temporary Access Passes are time-limited passcodes that act as a secure bridge during the transition away from traditional passwords. Whether you’re onboarding new users to passwordless methods or assisting existing users in recovering account access, TAPs offer a viable solution that minimizes dependency on conventional passwords.
Here’s a quick look at the functionality:

• Passwordless Onboarding: Users can register security keys like FIDO2 or set up their Microsoft Authenticator app without the typical delays or complications of password resets.
• Streamlined Recovery: In instances where users may be locked out or have forgotten their passwords, TAPs provide a temporary code to regain access securely.
• Time-Bound Security: By offering a limited window during which the passcode is valid, TAPs enhance security—limiting potential misuse if the passcode is inadvertently shared or intercepted.

New Feature for Internal Guests​

The latest update from Microsoft Entra ID specifically targets internal guest users. An internal guest, despite having a "Guest" user object type, typically maintains registered authentication methods within the Entra ID environment. With this inclusion, administrators now have the flexibility to assign TAPs exclusively to such users, thereby offering them the seamless experience of passwordless setup and efficient account recovery.

Key Points of the Update​

• Target Audience: TAPs can only be deployed for internal guests that are registered and managed through Microsoft Entra ID, ensuring that enterprise-level controls remain intact.
• Configuration Simplicity: Admins can easily enable the TAP policy through the Microsoft Entra admin center and subsequently generate TAPs either directly in the admin center or via Microsoft Graph.
• Error Handling for External Guests: For those trying to extend TAP functionality to external guest accounts, Microsoft has clearly stipulated that the system will display an error message such as “Temporary Access Pass cannot be added to an external guest user.” This safeguard preserves the integrity of internal authentication workflows.

How TAPs Enhance Security and Usability​

The introduction of TAPs for internal guests is not merely another feature update—it represents a step forward in modernizing identity management and fortifying organizational security. Here’s why:

• Enhanced Security Posture: By limiting the lifespan of access codes, TAPs reduce the window for potential exploitation, aligning with security best practices.
• Operational Efficiency: IT departments can reduce time spent on repetitive tasks like manual password resets, thereby focusing on strategic initiatives.
• Future-Proofing Identity Management: In an era where passwordless authentication is rapidly becoming the norm, TAPs ensure that organizations stay ahead of the curve, making transitions smoother and more secure.

Getting Started: A Step-by-Step Guide​

If your organization is eager to dive into these improvements, here’s a concise guide on how to begin:

• Enable TAP Policy: Log in to the Microsoft Entra admin center, navigate to the appropriate policy settings, and enable TAP.
• Generate TAPs: Utilize the admin center or leverage Microsoft Graph to generate temporary access passes for your designated internal guest users.
• Communicate with Users: Ensure that your internal guests understand the process for using TAPs both during their initial passwordless setup and during any recovery scenarios.
• Monitor and Manage: Review TAP usage and enforce any additional IT policies to ensure that these temporary passes are utilized correctly and expire as intended.

Broader Implications for Windows and Microsoft 365 Environments​

As organizations push towards zero-trust architectures and increasingly adopt passwordless solutions, this update from Microsoft Entra ID couldn’t be more timely. The enhanced account management capabilities have particular resonance for Windows users who rely on secure, robust identity platforms integrated within their daily workflows across Microsoft 365, Azure, and other Microsoft services.

Considerations and Future Outlook​

• Security Best Practices: TAPs are a tool that, when properly configured, can greatly reduce risks associated with weak or stolen passwords. However, they must be implemented as part of a broader strategy that includes multi-factor authentication (MFA) and regular access reviews.
• User Education: Proper training about the benefits and limitations of TAPs is essential. IT teams should emphasize the transient nature of these passes and educate users on following best practices to prevent accidental security lapses.
• Policy Adaptation: Future updates might expand the functionality of TAPs or introduce similar features for other user classifications, paving the way for even more granular control over account security and recovery processes.

Final Thoughts​

Microsoft Entra ID’s introduction of Temporary Access Passes for internal guest users signifies an important stride in the evolution of passwordless authentication methods. By offering an efficient, secure, and manageable way to onboard and recover accounts, TAPs help bridge the gap between usability and security—a crucial balance in today’s fast-paced enterprise environments.
For IT administrators and Windows users alike, this innovation is a welcome addition that not only enhances security but also simplifies account management, reinforcing the importance of adapting quickly to next-generation identity solutions.
What do you think about this new TAP feature? Do you see it as a game-changer in your organization’s security strategy? Join the conversation on WindowsForum.com and share your insights!

---

Note: This article provides a detailed report on the recent TAP update for internal guest users in Microsoft Entra ID. For more discussions on Windows 11 updates, Microsoft security patches, and cyber threat advisories, keep following our deep dives and expert analyses on WindowsForum.com.

---

Source: Petri IT Knowledgebase Microsoft Entra ID Adds TAP Support for Internal Guests