Entra ID (Microsoft Entra ID)

Microsoft Entra ID is Microsoft's cloud-based identity and access management service, formerly known as Azure Active Directory.

What is Entra ID?

Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure Active Directory) is Microsoft's cloud-based identity and access management service. It provides identity services for Microsoft 365, Azure, and thousands of third-party SaaS applications.

Entra ID Features

Single Sign-On (SSO): One identity for all apps
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enhanced security
Conditional Access: Context-aware access policies
Self-Service: Password reset and group management
B2B/B2C: External identity management
Privileged Identity Management: Just-in-time admin access

Entra ID vs Active Directory

Entra ID is cloud-native for SaaS and cloud resources, while Active Directory (AD DS) manages on-premises infrastructure. Hybrid deployments connect both.

Common Misconceptions

"Entra ID replaces AD" - Complement, not replacement
"Entra ID is just Azure AD renamed" - Part of broader Entra family
"Free tier is sufficient" - Enterprise needs P1/P2 licenses