Introducing the Microsoft Entra Suite

Microsoft recently announced the general availability of the Microsoft Entra Suite, positioning it as the solution for secure access to the workplace. This suite integrates access policy engines across identities, endpoints, and networks, providing a robust Zero Trust solution for user access.

What is Microsoft Entra Suite?

The Microsoft Entra Suite is a comprehensive licensing package designed to enhance identity and access management by consolidating advanced security and governance capabilities. It simplifies the implementation of zero-trust security models across an organization's digital ecosystem.

Components of the Microsoft Entra Suite

  • Microsoft Entra Private Access: Identity-centric Zero Trust Network Access secures private apps and resources, reducing operational complexity and costs by replacing outdated VPNs.
  • Microsoft Entra Internet Access: Identity-centric Secure Web Gateway (SWG) for SaaS apps and web traffic, protects against malicious content and other web threats.
  • Microsoft Entra ID Governance: Complete identity management and administration automates the identity lifecycle for precise access control.
  • Microsoft Entra ID Protection: Advanced Identity Protection blocks identity compromises in real-time with best-in-class authentication methods and machine learning (also included in Microsoft Entra ID P2).
  • Microsoft Entra Verified ID: Managed Verifiable Credentials Service enables real-time, privacy-respecting identity verification, starting with premium capabilities like Face Check.

Microsoft Entra Suite Capabilities

The Microsoft Entra Suite enables organizations to:

  • Unify conditional access policies across identities and networks.
  • To ensure minimum access rights for all users to resources and applications.
  • Improving the user experience for office-based and remote employees.
  • Streamline the management of security tools, reducing complexity and costs.

Pricing and Licensing Requirements

The Microsoft Entra Suite is priced at $12 per user per month. A prerequisite for using the Entra Suite is the Microsoft Entra P1 license (formerly Azure Active Directory P1), priced at $6 per user per month, essential for both the license and the technical setup.

Variants of the Entra Suite license

There are three main Microsoft Entra Suite licensing variants, tailored to different organizational needs:

  1. Microsoft Entra Suite: The standard version with the core set of features.
  2. Microsoft Entra Suite for FLW: Designed for frontline workers (FLWs). This version includes the same service plans but is optimized for FLW scenarios.
  3. Microsoft Entra Suite Step Up: Intended for customers who already have a Microsoft Entra Premium P2 license and want to extend their capabilities with additional features included in the Entra Suite.

Microsoft Entra Suite vs. Microsoft 365 E5

While Microsoft 365 E5 is expected to include comprehensive identity management features, advanced features needed for deeper identity management are bundled separately in the Entra Suite.

Comparison:

  • Entra ID Plan 2: Included in both Microsoft Entra Suite and Microsoft 365 E5 licenses.
  • Microsoft Entra ID P2 (formerly Azure Active Directory P2) standalone cost: $9 per user per month.
  • Entra Suite License: Priced at $12 per user per month.

For an additional $3 per user per month, the Entra Suite offers:

  • Microsoft Entra ID Governance: $7 per user per month.
  • Microsoft Entra Verified ID: (Exact price not available, but estimated).
  • Microsoft Entra Private Access: $5 per user per month.
  • Microsoft Entra Internet Access: $5 per user per month.

Despite incomplete pricing details for Verified ID Premium features, a quick calculation of known costs is approximately $26 per user per month. This makes the combined Entra Suite license at $12 per user per month a cost-effective choice if you need one of the additional solutions in addition to Entra ID Plan 2.

Conclusion: Is Microsoft Entra Suite Worth It?

The Microsoft Entra Suite represents a strategic investment for organizations looking to strengthen their identity and access management frameworks. By offering a comprehensive set of governance, security, and access tools, it simplifies the implementation of a zero-trust architecture. With significant cost savings compared to individual licensing, the Entra Suite offers excellent value, especially for organizations looking to enhance their identity protection and governance capabilities beyond Microsoft 365 E5.

Considering switching to Microsoft Entra Suite?

BeSharp Experts, an independent software licensing consultant, specializes in helping organizations find optimal licensing solutions and negotiate effectively with Microsoft. Contact us today for a detailed consultation or visit our website for more information on optimizing your Microsoft licensing strategy.

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