🔐 Microsoft Password Policy Settings

Strong password policies are the first line of defense against unauthorized access. In Microsoft 365, these are managed via Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD) and Intune Device Configuration Profiles.

🛡️ Key Password Requirements

• Minimum Length: Minimum of 8-12 characters recommended.
• Complexity: Include uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.
• Password Expiration: Configure based on organizational risk (NIST now recommends against periodic changes unless compromised).
• Ban Common Passwords: Utilize Microsoft’s smart password protection to block known weak passwords.
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Always enforce MFA as the primary security layer over password complexity.

⚙️ How to Configure Policies

1. Login to the Microsoft Entra Admin Center.
2. Navigate to Protection > Authentication methods > Password protection.
3. For device-level PINs, go to Intune > Devices > Configuration profiles.
4. Create a Settings Catalog profile and search for "Password" or "PIN" settings.
5. Assign policies to specific Security Groups.

💡 Best Practices

• Enable Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR): Reduces helpdesk tickets.
• Passwordless Authentication: Encourage Windows Hello for Business or Microsoft Authenticator app.
• Conditional Access: Use policies to require password changes if suspicious sign-in activity is detected.