How to Manage Security Groups in Microsoft 365

Specific departments that require granular access across a wide range of users with high turnover may benefit from Security Groups. Security Groups (formerly Azure AD Security Groups, now part of Entra ID) can be used to grant and manage permissions across multiple Microsoft 365 apps and services.

This includes, but is not limited to:

• SharePoint
• Power BI

Evaluation of Business Need

Before requesting a Security Group, evaluate whether it is necessary. Consider:

1. The number of users who need access.
2. The scope of files, apps, or resources requiring shared access.
3. The expected frequency of membership changes (e.g., student groups that reset every semester).

If frequent turnover or broad access is required, a Security Group is a suitable option. Direct individual permissions may be better for small, static needs.

To request a new Security Group:

• Submit a ticket to the Service Desk for EUT.
• Provide the purpose of the group, the email of the person who should maintain it, and a list of initial members.
• UMS IT will create the group using the Microsoft Entra admin portal.
• Groups must be prefixed with a campus designation (e.g., USM-).

Instructions 

1. Go to https://myaccount.microsoft.com/groups.
   • 
2. Select View Account -> My Groups.
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Add Members

1. Open your group, select the + icon to add members.
2. Search for users by full email address and click Add.
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Remove Members

1. In your group, click the Members tab.
2. To remove a single member.
   1. Search for the user by name in the filter
   2. Select Remove at the end of the user's row.
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3. To remove multiple members.
   1. Search for the user by scrolling through members or by name in the filter.
   2. Add a check mark by the user's name.
   3. Select Remove Members from the top right of the members box.
      • 

Notes & Warnings

Environment

• Microsoft 365 (SharePoint, PowerBI, Power Apps, other apps as needed)