check before: 2023-10-01
Product:
Defender, Defender for Endpoint, Defender for Identity, Defender XDR, Enterprise Mobility + Security, Windows, Windows Server
Platform:
Online, US Instances, World tenant
Status:
Change type:
Feature update, User impact, Admin impact
Links:
Details:
Summary:
Microsoft Defender for Identity's Unified Sensor is now generally available, enabling identity protections on qualifying domain controllers via the existing Defender for Endpoint agent without extra installation. Activation requires Windows Server 2019+, specific updates, and licensing. It simplifies identity alerts and attack disruption with no downtime.
Details:
[Introduction]
We're excited to announce the general availability (GA) of the Unified Sensor for Microsoft Defender for Identity. This milestone simplifies the activation of identity protections on qualifying domain controllers by extending the existing Microsoft Defender for Endpoint agent. With just a few clicks, you can enable identity alerts, posture recommendations, and automatic attack disruption-no additional agent installation required.
[When this will happen]
General Availability (Worldwide, GCC, GCCH, and DoD): Available now.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
Created:
2025-10-25
updated:
2025-10-25
Task Type
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Docu to Check
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MS How does it affect me
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MS Preperations
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MS Urgency
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MS workload name
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summary for non-techies**
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Direct effects for Operations**
Activation of Unified Sensor without preparation
If the Unified Sensor is activated without ensuring all prerequisites are met, it may lead to incomplete functionality, such as lack of health alerts and advanced hunting data, which can hinder security operations.
- roles: IT Admin, Security Analyst
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/defender-for-identity/deploy/prerequisites-sensor-version-3
Incompatibility with existing installations
Activating the Unified Sensor on servers with Defender for Identity sensor v2.x already deployed will result in failure to activate, potentially leaving systems unprotected and increasing vulnerability.
- roles: IT Admin, System Administrator
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/defender-for-identity/deploy/prerequisites-sensor-version-3
User experience disruption due to lack of alerts
Without proper activation and configuration, users may experience delays in identity alerts and posture recommendations, leading to potential security risks and user frustration.
- roles: End User, Security Operations Team
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/defender-for-identity/deploy/prerequisites-sensor-version-3
Configutation Options**
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Opportunities**
Enhanced Security Monitoring
Activating the Unified Sensor allows for improved identity-specific alerts and posture recommendations, enhancing the security posture of the organization by providing real-time monitoring and automatic attack disruption.
- next-steps: Review the current domain controllers to ensure they meet the prerequisites, then activate the Unified Sensor via the Microsoft Defender portal.
- roles: IT Security Admin, System Administrator, Network Administrator
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/defender-for-identity/deploy/prerequisites-sensor-version-3
Streamlined IT Operations
The Unified Sensor eliminates the need for additional installations and configurations, reducing the operational burden on IT teams and allowing them to focus on other critical tasks.
- next-steps: Train IT staff on the new activation process and update internal documentation to reflect the streamlined approach.
- roles: IT Operations Manager, System Administrator, Help Desk Support
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/defender-for-identity/deploy/prerequisites-sensor-version-3
Cost Efficiency in Security Management
By leveraging the existing Defender for Endpoint agent for identity protection, organizations can reduce costs associated with additional security solutions and streamline licensing requirements.
- next-steps: Conduct a cost analysis comparing current security expenditures with potential savings from consolidating security solutions through the Unified Sensor.
- roles: CIO, IT Financial Analyst, Security Compliance Officer
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/defender-for-identity/deploy/prerequisites-sensor-version-3
Potentional Risks**
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IT Security**
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explanation for non-techies**
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** AI generated content. This information must be reviewed before use.
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Last updated 2 weeks ago ago
