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Timo Reusch
Timo Reusch

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The difference between Azure AD and AD

Entra ID, formerly called Azure Active Directory (Azure AD), is a cloud-based identity and access management (IAM) service designed to provide secure access to internal and external resources. It facilitates authentication and authorization for a wide range of SaaS applications, including company internal resources and self-written apps. Entra ID does not replace AD, but complement and extend its functionality: while AD is on-premises-centric and focuses on managing identities, groups, and policies within a local network, Microsoft Entra ID provides a scalable, cloud-first approach. Moreover, it enables secure access for remote users and external collaborators. By integrating Microsoft Entra ID into their IT ecosystems, organizations can bridge the gap between traditional on-premises directory services and modern cloud-based identity management requirements 1.


  1. Microsoft, "What is Microsoft Entra ID?" Dec. 2024. Online 

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