Conditional Access with Stronger Token Security

Key insights

• Token Protection in Conditional Access creates a cryptographic link between an access token and the device it was issued to, stopping stolen tokens from being used on unauthorized devices.


• This feature is currently in preview for Microsoft Entra P2, with enforcement limited mainly to Windows devices and certain apps like SharePoint, Exchange, Intune, and Teams; browser sessions are not yet fully supported.


• Device-bound tokens strengthen security by ensuring that even if a token is compromised, it cannot be reused elsewhere, reducing the risk of token replay attacks and session hijacking.


• To use Token Protection effectively, devices must be Azure AD Joined, Hybrid Joined, or registered with Azure AD; organizations should also configure Conditional Access policies requiring interactive authentication for sensitive actions.


• The video demonstrates how to identify protected tokens in Entra sign-in logs and shows what happens when an unbound token tries to access resources—end users may see access denied messages in Office apps when Token Protection is enforced.


• Complementary strategies include compliant device checks, phishing-resistant MFA, trusted locations, and Global Secure Access; together with Token Protection, these help build a strong Zero Trust security model against modern cyber threats.

Introduction to Token Protection in Conditional Access

Microsoft’s new Token Protection feature within Conditional Access has emerged as a significant advancement in the ongoing battle against token-based threats. In a recent you_tube_video, Nick Ross [MVP] (T-Minus365) provides an in-depth exploration of this security innovation, which is currently available as a preview for Entra P2 users. The feature aims to tighten the security of access tokens by binding them directly to individual devices, making it much harder for attackers to exploit stolen credentials.

This approach is particularly timely as organizations confront increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks that target session tokens. As security teams look to strengthen defenses beyond traditional multifactor authentication (MFA), understanding the nuances of Token Protection is essential. Ross’s video offers both a technical breakdown and practical demonstration, providing valuable context for IT professionals and business leaders alike.

How Device-Bound Tokens Strengthen Security

One of the core strengths of Token Protection lies in its ability to create a strong cryptographic link between an access token and a specific device. When a user authenticates, the resulting token is uniquely tied to that device, rendering it useless if copied or replayed elsewhere. This device-bound principle is crucial in reducing the effectiveness of token theft and replay attacks, which have been used to bypass even robust security controls.

Ross explains that this mechanism relies on Primary Refresh Tokens (PRTs), ensuring that only trusted and registered devices can use sensitive tokens. While this marks a significant improvement over previous methods, it also introduces new considerations for deployment, such as ensuring all enterprise devices meet Azure AD join or registration requirements.

Current Limitations and Gaps in Preview

Despite its promise, the current preview of Token Protection reveals several important limitations. Ross notes that enforcement is restricted to Windows devices, and only certain client applications—such as SharePoint, Exchange, Intune, and Teams—are fully supported at this stage. Additionally, browser-based sessions remain outside the scope of protection, leaving some attack vectors unaddressed.

The gap between Microsoft’s official documentation and the actual capabilities available in the preview can pose challenges for early adopters. Organizations eager to implement the feature must balance the immediate security benefits against these functional constraints, planning for phased adoption as support broadens in future releases.

End-User Experience and Policy Enforcement

In his video, Ross provides a live demonstration of how Token Protection policies are created and monitored within Entra sign-in logs. He shows what happens when an unbound token attempts to access protected resources, highlighting clear denial events and traceable alerts for administrators.

For end users, the experience is designed to be seamless—assuming their device meets compliance requirements. However, if users attempt to access Office apps from an unregistered device, they encounter clear security prompts or are denied access, reinforcing the importance of device management and user education in successful implementation.

Complementary Strategies and Future Directions

Token Protection is not a standalone solution. Ross emphasizes the importance of integrating it with other Conditional Access strategies, such as compliant device checks, phishing-resistant MFA, trusted locations, and Global Secure Access. This layered approach aligns with Microsoft’s broader Zero Trust philosophy, recognizing that no single technology can address every threat vector.

Looking ahead, Microsoft is expected to expand Token Protection’s capabilities, particularly around browser session coverage and broader device support. As the feature matures, the tradeoff between immediate security gains and current deployment gaps will gradually diminish, making it a cornerstone of modern identity and access management.

Conclusion: Navigating the Road Ahead

Nick Ross’s video offers a clear-eyed assessment of Token Protection’s strengths and shortcomings in its current form. While the feature introduces robust safeguards against token replay attacks, organizations must weigh its limited app and device coverage during the preview phase. By combining Token Protection with other Conditional Access measures and remaining agile as Microsoft enhances the feature, businesses can make meaningful progress toward a more secure Microsoft 365 environment.

Ultimately, the journey to comprehensive token security will require ongoing adaptation, transparent communication with end users, and a willingness to embrace both new technologies and evolving best practices.

Keywords

Require Token Protection Conditional Access security Azure AD token protection MFA authentication policy