What is Microsoft Entra ID?
Microsoft Entra ID is a cloud-based identity and access management (IAM) solution provided by Microsoft. It helps organisations secure and manage user identities, enabling secure access to applications, devices, and resources. Entra ID plays a crucial role in identity protection, authentication, and authorisation for businesses, allowing users to sign in and securely access corporate resources.
It is a core part of the Microsoft Entra suite, which includes identity governance, multi-cloud identity management, and conditional access policies.
Formerly Known as Azure Active Directory (Azure AD)
Before July 2023, Microsoft Entra ID was known as Azure Active Directory (Azure AD). The rebranding was part of Microsoft’s effort to simplify identity management across hybrid and cloud environments while aligning it with the broader Microsoft Entra suite.
Despite the name change, Microsoft Entra ID retains all the features of Azure AD, with enhancements to identity security, zero-trust principles, and automation capabilities.
Key Components of Microsoft Entra ID
Microsoft Entra ID includes several key components that strengthen identity security and access management:
1. Identity Protection
- Uses machine learning to detect and mitigate identity risks.
- Helps organisations detect suspicious sign-in attempts and protect against identity-based threats.
- Provides automated responses to potential security breaches.
2. Conditional Access
- Ensures secure access by enforcing risk-based policies.
- Uses signals like user location, device compliance, and risk assessment to determine access levels.
- Enhances Zero Trust security by granting access only when conditions are met.
3. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
- Adds an extra layer of security beyond passwords.
- Supports authentication methods like phone verification, authenticator apps, and biometrics.
- Reduces the risk of compromised accounts due to weak or stolen passwords.
4. Single Sign-On (SSO)
- Enables users to log in once and access multiple applications without needing to re-enter credentials.
- Works across Microsoft 365, third-party apps, and cloud environments.
- Improves user productivity while maintaining security.
5. Privileged Identity Management (PIM)
- Manages and controls elevated permissions within the organisation.
- Provides just-in-time (JIT) access to reduce the risk of privilege misuse.
- Enhances security by limiting long-term admin access.
6. Identity Governance
- Helps organisations enforce access policies and ensure compliance.
- Manages user lifecycles, from onboarding to offboarding.
- Automates access requests, approvals, and periodic reviews.
7. External Identity Management
- Allows secure access for partners, customers, and contractors.
- Provides self-service sign-up and social login integrations.
- Ensures compliance with privacy regulations like GDPR.
8. Decentralised Identity (DID)
- A new feature that enables users to own and control their digital identity.
- Reduces reliance on passwords and centralised authentication systems.
- Improves privacy and security for users.
Microsoft Entra ID Licensing and Subscription Options
Microsoft Entra ID is available with different Microsoft 365 and Enterprise Mobility + Security (EMS) plans, each offering varying levels of security and identity management:
Microsoft Entra ID P1 is included in Microsoft 365 E3 and Microsoft 365 Business Premium.
Microsoft Entra ID P2 is included in Microsoft 365 E5 and EMS E5 or can be purchased as a standalone upgrade.
Business Premium does not include Identity Protection or Privileged Identity Management (PIM), which require Entra ID P2.
How Microsoft Entra ID Fits Into Zero Trust Security
To fully understand how Microsoft Entra ID contributes to a secure identity framework, it’s essential to see how it integrates with other Microsoft security solutions.
The image below illustrates the role of Microsoft Entra ID in enforcing Zero Trust security policies through Conditional Access, continuous risk assessment, and automation.
Conclusion
Microsoft Entra ID is the evolution of Azure AD, providing enhanced identity security, authentication, and governance. With its Zero Trust approach, risk-based access policies, and AI-driven security measures, it ensures that organisations can securely manage identities across hybrid and cloud environments.
For end users, Microsoft Entra ID simplifies login experiences, improves security, and reduces the risk of cyber threats, making it an essential solution for modern digital workplaces.
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