Best practices for securing your Power Platform solutions
Imagine a workplace where every employee can create their own applications and automate tasks without needing extensive technical knowledge. This is the vision of the Microsoft Power Platform, which allows users to build solutions using tools like Power Apps and Power Automate. However, with this capability comes the need for strong security measures to protect your organization’s data.
In this article, we’ll discuss the key steps to set up a secure environment for low-code/no-code development within the Power Platform.
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Understand Data Sensitivity
To effectively secure your low-code/no-code environment, start by identifying which data is sensitive and which is not. Organizations often separate their low-code platforms into environments for professional and citizen development. Professional developers, who have some security knowledge, create widely-used applications. In contrast, citizen developers build tools for their own productivity. Begin by establishing clear policies that classify data based on sensitivity and apply the necessary controls. Use Data Loss Prevention (DLP) measures and configure default settings to manage access to sensitive data. Regularly review these settings to ensure they cover all applications and automations.
Know Your Application Creators
Knowing who creates applications and automations is essential for identifying potential security issues. In the Power Platform, any user can become a maker and build apps or automations in the default environment without special approval. It’s important to engage with these users to understand their needs and any security concerns they may have. By working together, you can address any misunderstandings about security and ensure that their creative efforts do not compromise your organization’s data. Recognizing common patterns in how different users build their tools can help in implementing effective security measures.
Apply Principle of Least Privilege
The principle of least privilege is crucial for managing access in low-code/no-code environments. This means granting users only the permissions necessary to complete their tasks. Set up processes for approving guest access, determine which vendors can access specific resources, and use strong authentication methods like Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). Regularly review and limit access settings to prevent unnecessary exposure of sensitive information. Avoid broad sharing of resources, as it can increase the risk of data leaks or unauthorized changes.
Conclusion
Securing low-code/no-code development within the Microsoft Power Platform is a significant challenge but one that is crucial for protecting your organization’s data. This article has covered the basic steps for creating a secure environment: understanding data sensitivity, identifying the makers and builders, and applying least privilege access.
Connect with AVASOFT for further guidance on enhancing your Power Platform security and protecting your digital assets.
