🔄 How Microsoft Entra Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR) Works

Self-Service Password Reset isn’t just a convenience feature — it’s a secure, identity-driven workflow designed to protect users while reducing operational overhead for IT teams.

🧭 Step-by-Step SSPR Flow

1️⃣ User Registration (One-Time Setup)

Users register authentication methods such as:

• Microsoft Authenticator app
• Mobile phone (SMS or voice)
• Email (where permitted)

💡 Best practice: Prompt users to register during onboarding to prevent future lockouts.

2️⃣ User Initiates Password Reset

If locked out or expired, users select “Forgot my password” from:

• Microsoft sign-in page
• Windows sign-in screen
• Microsoft 365 portal

No helpdesk involvement required.

3️⃣ Identity Verification

Microsoft Entra validates the user using:

• One or two authentication methods (configurable)
• MFA-grade verification

This ensures only the legitimate user can reset their password.

4️⃣ Password Reset or Account Unlock

Once verified:

• Password is reset or
• Account is unlocked immediately

The change is enforced across Entra-connected services in real time.

5️⃣ Notifications & Auditing

• User receives confirmation notifications
• All actions are logged in Microsoft Entra audit logs
• Security teams retain full visibility for compliance and investigations

🔐 Security Built In by Design

Microsoft Entra SSPR integrates natively with:

• Conditional Access
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
• Zero Trust identity principles

This means you’re improving security, not weakening it.

📈 Business Value of SSPR

🧠 FABS Solutions Recommendation

Self-Service Password Reset should be enabled in every Microsoft Entra tenant as a baseline identity control — not an optional feature.

When combined with MFA and Conditional Access, SSPR delivers immediate ROI and measurable security improvements.

📘 Microsoft Configuration Guide

🔗 https://learn.microsoft.com/en-gb/entra/identity/authentication/tutorial-enable-sspr#enable-self-service-password-reset