Global Secure AccessGlobal Secure Access Overview

Global Secure Access Overview

20 mins

Understanding the Concept

Microsoft Entra Global Secure Access is Microsoft's Security Service Edge (SSE) solution that provides identity-centric network access. It consists of two services: Microsoft Entra Internet Access (secure web gateway) and Microsoft Entra Private Access (zero trust network access replacement for VPN).

Global Secure Access uses a lightweight client installed on end-user devices to tunnel traffic through Microsoft's network. This enables identity-aware network security: traffic policies can be based on user identity, device compliance, and risk level from Conditional Access.

The Global Secure Access client integrates with Conditional Access policies, enabling unified access control across identity (who you are), device (what you're using), and network (where you're going). This is a key component of Microsoft's Security Service Edge strategy.

Key Points

  • Internet Access: Secure web gateway for internet-bound traffic
  • Private Access: Zero-trust replacement for VPN to private resources
  • Client-based: Lightweight agent on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
  • Identity-aware: Policies tied to Entra ID users and CA policies
  • Microsoft 365 profile: Optimized routing for M365 traffic

Global Secure Access Architecture

Step 1

GSA Client

Installed on user devices, tunnels selected traffic

Step 2

Traffic Profiles

M365, Internet, or Private Access traffic selection

Step 3

Microsoft Edge

Traffic routed through Microsoft's global network

Step 4

Policy Evaluation

CA policies + network policies applied together

Step 5

Resource Access

Traffic forwarded to internet, M365, or private resources

Why This Matters in Real Organizations

Traditional VPN and proxy solutions are separate from identity. Global Secure Access unifies network security with identity-based access control, enabling true zero-trust for all traffic types - internet, SaaS, and private applications.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Deploying GSA client without planning traffic profile configuration
Not understanding the difference between Internet and Private Access
Forgetting to configure the M365 traffic profile for optimal performance
Not integrating GSA policies with existing Conditional Access policies

Interview Tips

  • Explain the SSE concept and Microsoft's approach
  • Compare Global Secure Access to traditional VPN solutions
  • Discuss how identity and network security converge

Exam Tips (SC-300)

  • Know the difference between Internet Access and Private Access
  • Understand the GSA client and traffic profiles
  • Know how Global Secure Access integrates with Conditional Access

Course Complete!

You've finished all lessons

←Previous|→Next|HHome