Microsoft Entra ID · Remaining Built-in Roles

Cloud Device Administrator

Can enable, disable, and delete devices in Microsoft Entra ID and read Windows BitLocker recovery keys in the Azure portal.

Scope: Entra ID device object management including BitLocker recovery

Permissions

  • Audit - Read audit logs
  • BitLocker - Read BitLocker recovery keys
  • Devices - Delete devices from Entra ID
  • Devices - Disable devices in Entra ID
  • Devices - Enable devices in Entra ID
  • Device Credentials - Read device local credentials
  • Device Policies - Read device management policies
  • Registration - Read registration policies
  • Sign-in Reports - Read sign-in reports
  • Device Properties - View device properties and metadata
  • Limitation - Cannot enroll or configure devices via Intune
  • Limitation - Cannot manage Intune device policies

Common use cases

  • Device lifecycle management in Entra ID
  • BitLocker key recovery for helpdesk support
  • Removing stale or compromised devices
  • Disabling lost or stolen devices
  • Device troubleshooting and diagnostics
  • LAPS password retrieval for local admin
  • Device cleanup and hygiene operations

Best practices

  • Assign to IT helpdesk for device support
  • Use Intune roles for full device management
  • Document device deletion reasons
  • Implement device cleanup procedures
  • Review stale devices regularly
  • Coordinate with Intune Admin for policy changes
  • Use PIM for just-in-time access
  • Audit BitLocker key access

Security considerations

  • Can delete devices affecting user access
  • BitLocker key access is sensitive
  • LAPS password access is privileged
  • Cannot configure device policies (limits impact)
  • Audit all device deletions
  • Monitor for bulk device operations
  • Alert on BitLocker key access patterns
  • Consider PIM for elevated access

Official Microsoft Learn documentation →

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