The short answer
Begin with Microsoft's sample context and a sample GET request. Graph Explorer is an API tool, not an inherently read-only viewer; its behavior depends on the signed-in account, request and permissions.
Three useful checks
- Confirm the context first. Microsoft documents sample queries without sign-in. Check the account/tenant information before running anything: an existing browser session may already be signed in. Do not assume that opening the tool puts you in a safe sample tenant.
- Read the request before trying it. Inspect its method, endpoint and API documentation. For this learning exercise, stay with sample GET queries. POST, PATCH, PUT and DELETE can alter data when used with an authorized signed-in context. Check whether the endpoint is v1.0 or beta; examples are not interchangeable production contracts.
- Inspect permissions and history. Read the permission requirements rather than granting access just to remove an error. Organizational consent belongs to your approved process. Microsoft documents a query-history feature retained for 30 days, including export options. Treat exported history as potentially sensitive, not a harmless learning screenshot.
What this does not prove
A successful sample request proves neither production authorization nor that an integration will work safely in your organization. It does not validate paging, throttling, data handling or application design. This guide does not establish your eligibility for a developer sandbox.