Understanding DSPM and Microsoft’s
Approach to Data Security &
Governance

Published
November 22, 2024

3 min read

Matt Reid is Senior Director of Strategic Alliances
at Infolock.

In This Article

Join Our Newsletter

Follow Us

Tags

Data Security Posture Management (DSPM) is rapidly evolving as a critical component in the data security and governance landscape, driven by the increasing importance of cloud infrastructure and the need for comprehensive data management strategies. At the forefront of this evolution is Microsoft, which integrates DSPM capabilities with its existing cloud security services. This article unpacks how Microsoft is enhancing its DSPM offerings and what this means for organizations leveraging its ecosystem.

What is DSPM?


DSPM focuses on identifying sensitive data, who has access to it, and how it is being used within an organization. It assesses the security hygiene or posture of data or applications, providing insights that are crucial for maintaining robust data security frameworks. Essentially, DSPM is about giving organizations visibility and control over their data across various environments.

The Microsoft Ecosystem and DSPM


Microsoft’s involvement in the DSPM space signifies its commitment to integrating advanced security measures within its products. Microsoft’s strategy includes the integration of DSPM functionalities within its Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM) solutions, leveraging in-house developments to provide a comprehensive security suite, integrating them into products like Microsoft Defender for Cloud and Purview.

The intent behind these integrations is to create a unified platform where data governance and security are centrally managed, simplifying the process for organizations and providing a single source of truth. This alignment is particularly visible in Microsoft’s move to incorporate its security exposure management, which includes vulnerability and posture management capabilities, into its overarching data governance framework.

Integration into Microsoft Purview


A key component of Microsoft’s DSPM strategy is the integration into Microsoft Purview, which aims to serve as the central hub for data governance. This integration is expected to streamline the management of data security, providing tools to detect, help, investigate, and respond to data-related events alongside cloud infrastructure and identity-related events.

Microsoft is positioning Purview as a solution that not only offers visibility into data lifecycle management and access governance but also aligns with tools like Data Map and Data Catalog to ensure a holistic approach to data governance across Azure. This approach highlights Microsoft’s goal to democratize data governance capabilities, making them more accessible and integrated within its cloud services.

The Future of Microsoft DSPM


As Microsoft continues to develop its DSPM capabilities, the focus is on simplifying its offerings to make them more user-friendly and integrated. The aim is to reduce the complexity of managing multiple security solutions and to provide a unified approach that aligns with industry standards and practices.

Furthermore, Microsoft is aware of the broader implications of data governance, especially with emerging technologies and frameworks like co-pilot programs, which leverage AI to enhance data interaction and management. Ensuring that data is correctly labeled and managed is crucial in this context, and Microsoft’s tools are designed to aid in this process.

What’s next?


Microsoft’s continued investment in DSPM and data governance signifies its commitment to providing robust, integrated security solutions that address the evolving needs of modern organizations. By focusing on integration, ease of use, and comprehensive coverage, Microsoft is paving the way for more effective and efficient data governance solutions that can adapt to the changing landscape of data security.

Organizations looking to enhance their data security and governance frameworks should consider how Microsoft’s DSPM solutions can be integrated into their overall data security strategies. As Microsoft advances its technologies, staying informed and adaptable will be key to leveraging these tools effectively.

Interested in learning more about Microsoft’s approach to DSPM – check out this video:


Ready to get started?
Ready to learn more about Microsoft and DSPM – Schedule a call today!

Related Posts

Flip The Script: Let The Attackers “Win”
What does it look like when organizations do their data security and risk management homework upfront,

2 min read

April 5, 2023

Cybersecurity Is Dead — What Now?
We must stop insisting cybersecurity can "win" the war against cybercriminals, because we've already lost.

2 min read

March 10, 2023

4 In 4: 4 Insights From My First 4 Months At Infolock
After four months on the job at Infolock, I want to let prospective customers and employees know.

2 min read

April 7, 2021

Challenge The Status Quo
Quick fix technology solutions aren't a substaitute for hard work and careful planning.

2 min read

January 16, 2023

Data Breach Cynicism Takes Hold
In more than 20 years of working in the IT security industry, I’ve helped literally hundreds of companies

2 min read

November 14, 2022

Ciso, We Have A Problem
Since 2001, I’ve worked with hundreds – even thousands – of infosec practitioners: analysts, engineers, technicians,

2 min read

August 17, 2022

It’s The Data, Stupid!
Data is notoriously messy. It’s clear most organizations have lost control of it – or, never had control of it in the first place.

2 min read

June 26, 2022

Peak Vendor: Reclaiming Infosec Priorities And Budgets In The Age Of Big Marketing
I’m not sure when the bubble began. Three years ago? Five? Security needs

2 min read

May 3, 2023

Banishing The Backseat Drivers
If you’re in security, you know how

2 min read

March 30, 2022

Vendors Know You Too Well
Could you imagine walking into a car dealership without:

2 min read

January 15, 2022