In today’s digital landscape, ensuring secure and seamless access to resources is crucial. Microsoft Entra ID offers a feature called Temporary Access Pass (TAP) that allows users to access their accounts with a time-limited passcode. This is particularly useful when users lose their usual authentication methods. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps to set up and use TAP in Microsoft Entra ID.
What is a Temporary Access Pass?
A Temporary Access Pass (TAP) is a time-limited passcode that can be configured for single use or multiple sign-ins. It helps users sign in and register other authentication methods, making it easier to recover access when they lose or forget their primary authentication methods.
Steps to Set Up a Temporary Access Pass
1. Enable the Temporary Access Pass Policy
Before users can sign in with a TAP, you need to enable this method in the Authentication methods policy.
- Sign in to the Microsoft Entra admin center as at least an Authentication Policy Administrator.
- Navigate to
Protection > Authentication methods > Policies
. - From the list of available authentication methods, select Temporary Access Pass.
- Select Enable and then choose the users or groups to include or exclude from the policy.
- (Optional) Configure the default settings for TAP, such as setting the maximum lifetime or length.
- Select Save to apply the policy.
2. Create a Temporary Access Pass
Once the policy is enabled, you can create a TAP for a user.
- Sign in to the Microsoft Entra admin center as at least an Authentication Administrator.
- Browse to
Identity > Users
. - Select the user you would like to create a TAP for.
- Select Authentication methods and then Add authentication method.
- Select Temporary Access Pass.
- Define a custom activation time or duration and select Add.
- Once added, the details of the TAP will be shown.
3. Use the Temporary Access Pass
The user can now use the TAP to sign in and update their authentication methods.
- Sign in using the TAP provided.
- Update or register new authentication methods such as FIDO2 or passwordless phone sign-in.
- Delete the TAP from the user’s security info or the Entra admin center once the new methods are registered.
Benefits of Using Temporary Access Pass
- Enhanced Security: TAP provides a secure way to recover access without relying on passwords.
- Convenience: Users can quickly regain access and update their authentication methods.
- Flexibility: TAP can be configured for single use or multiple sign-ins, depending on the organization’s needs.
Conclusion
Setting up a Temporary Access Pass in Microsoft Entra ID is a straightforward process that enhances security and convenience for users. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your organization is well-prepared to handle authentication challenges and provide a seamless user experience.