Microsoft Supplier Security & Privacy Assurance (SSPA)

LOCATION

International

industry

Requirements

Achieve Compliance Confidence

Understanding Microsoft SSPA: Protecting Microsoft Data Across the Supply Chain

The SSPA program requires suppliers to adopt rigorous security and privacy practices before handling Microsoft data. Annual self-attestation—or third-party validation for high-impact engagements—demands clear evidence: System Security Plans, data flow diagrams, and control test results.

Meeting SSPA standards means identifying where Microsoft data lives, implementing 15 core control areas, and maintaining proof of effectiveness year-round. Forgepath guides suppliers through scoping, gap remediation, document preparation, and audit coordination—so you can prove trustworthiness, keep contracts, and reduce risk throughout the partnership lifecycle.

Be Informed

Microsoft SSPA Compliance At a Glance

Microsoft’s Supplier Security & Privacy Assurance (SSPA) program sets mandatory security and privacy controls for any supplier that processes, stores, or accesses Microsoft data or personal information.

Requirements

Data Classification & Handling

Apply Microsoft data handling procedures, encryption standards, and retention limits based on sensitivity.

Access Control

Enforce least-privilege access, MFA, and timely user provisioning / de-provisioning for all Microsoft data environments.

Physical Security

Restrict physical access to facilities and devices that store Microsoft data; maintain visitor logs and surveillance.

Network Security

Segment networks, use firewalls, and monitor traffic to protect Microsoft information from external threats.

Encryption & Key Management

Encrypt data in transit and at rest using Microsoft-approved algorithms and manage keys securely.

Secure Development & Change Management

Integrate secure coding, change control, and code review practices into the software development lifecycle.

Vulnerability Management

Conduct regular scanning, patch critical flaws promptly, and track remediation to closure.

Logging & Monitoring

Collect, correlate, and retain security logs to detect and investigate suspicious activity.

Incident Response

Maintain an IR plan that meets Microsoft notification timelines and evidence-preservation requirements.

Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery

Protect Microsoft data availability via documented backup, recovery point, and recovery time objectives.

Privacy & Data Subject Rights

Honor Microsoft’s privacy commitments, including data subject access and deletion requests.

Third-Party Management

Flow SSPA requirements to subcontractors and monitor their security posture.

Secure Configuration & Hardening

Align servers, endpoints, and cloud resources with hardened baseline configurations.

Policy & Governance

Publish, review, and enforce security and privacy policies that align with SSPA controls.

Training & Awareness

Provide annual security and privacy training to personnel handling Microsoft data.

How Forgepath Can Help

Incident Response Plan

Design IR playbooks that meet Microsoft’s reporting windows and test team readiness through simulations.

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Policy & Procedure Development

Draft Microsoft-aligned data handling, incident response, and access control policies demanded by SSPA.

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vCISO for Microsoft Supplier Programs

Provide strategic oversight, auditor liaison, and continuous control governance for SSPA obligations.

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Jeromy Labit

Director, Cloud Systems & Security
ZERO

Working With ForgePath

Forgepath delivered outstanding service on our network and app security tests.
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Jeromy Labit
Director, Cloud Systems & Security
ZERO

Forgepath delivered outstanding service on both our network penetration test and application security assessment.

When a critical customer need arose, they quickly adjusted their schedule to meet our urgent timeline without compromising quality. Their technical expertise, clear guidance, and hands-on remediation support helped us meet our EOY goals efficiently.

We were especially impressed by their flexibility, responsiveness, and professionalism throughout the process.

H.T. Gordon

Chief Executive Officer
Parsysco

Working With ForgePath

Forgepath separates themselves from the rest as they’re a true security partner.
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H.T. Gordon
Chief Executive Officer
Parsysco

Forgepath separates themselves from the rest as they’re a true security partner to Parsysco. They took the time to understand our requirements and how things were working with our previous provider. We were impressed by how quickly they formulated a new strategy and approach. They helped us identify our challenges and consistently brought forward solutions that were in Parsysco’s best interest.

Most vendors only care about selling something, Forgepath took the personal relationship and partnership approach that we value greatly.

Ready to Get Started?

Strengthen Your Microsoft Supplier Relationship

Win and retain Microsoft contracts by demonstrating robust security and privacy controls. Forgepath helps you close gaps, document evidence, and sustain SSPA compliance—building confidence with Microsoft and your customers alike.

Talk to an Expert

FAQ

Have Questions About Microsoft SSPA?

Any supplier that processes, stores, or accesses Microsoft Confidential, Highly Confidential, or Personal Data.

Completed self-attestation, control test results, and supporting artifacts such as policies, logs, and architecture diagrams.

Annually, with more frequent reviews if risk levels or data classifications change.

Most suppliers achieve readiness in 4–10 weeks, depending on existing controls and remediation scope.

Microsoft may suspend data sharing or terminate contracts until compliance gaps are resolved. Forgepath helps you remediate quickly and maintain business continuity.