Microsoft Entra Private Access is a Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) solution that provides secure access to private enterprise resources. With the release of Global Secure Access (GSA) client version 2.26.108, Microsoft has addressed a crucial functionality gap by adding support for Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), enabling secure access from non-managed endpoints.
BYOD Support in Global Secure Access
Microsoft introduced BYOD support for Entra Private Access with the release of the GSA client version 2.26.108. This update allows the GSA client to be installed on Microsoft Entra-registered devices that are not domain-joined or managed by the organization, enabling secure access to private resources from personal or unmanaged endpoints.
Use Cases
BYOD support in GSA and Entra Private Access enables several common scenarios where network access from managed devices is impractical or unavailable, including:
- Vendor or contractor access
- IT incident response from unmanaged endpoints
- Temporary or seasonal staffing
- Collaboration with external partners
Replacing Legacy VPN for Ad Hoc Access
Historically, legacy VPN solutions were the primary option for providing ad hoc access to private resources from unmanaged devices. With the introduction of BYOD support in the GSA client, organizations can now extend Entra Private Access to these scenarios without deploying or maintaining a separate VPN infrastructure.
Additional Changes
In addition to adding BYOD support, GSA client v2.26.108 includes the following new enhancements.
- Improved Intelligent Local Access (ILA) detection
- Join Type displayed in the client interface
- GSA traceroute enhancements, including a 50M MB speed test between the client and edge service.
Summary
BYOD support removes a key barrier to adopting Microsoft Entra Private Access. Organizations can now securely provide access to private resources using Zero Trust policies, even when users connect from unmanaged or personal devices, and without relying on legacy VPN solutions.
Additional Information
Microsoft Entra Private Access Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
Microsoft Global Secure Access Client for Windows v2.26.108
