5.1 Microsoft Entra ID

This was formerly known as Azure Active Directory, it plays a crucial role in an Cloud Network environment.

• Comprehensive Identity Service
• Secure User Identity Management
• Access Policy Control

Microsoft Entra ID basically authenticates the user.

Key Features

• Single Sign-On (SSO), this feature simplifies user experience by allowing access to multiple applications with just one set of credentials.
• Multi-Factor Authentication(MFA), It enhances security by requiring multiple methods of verification before granting access.
• Conditional access, which customises access policies based on the user location, device, time and so on.
• B2B collaboration, ensures secure management of guest and partners to access the organisation’s resources.
• Application Management, easy integration and management of applications under the network.
• Device Management, controlling and securing access from various devices.

Benefits

• Robust security against unauthorized access and potential threats.
• Operational Efficiency, streamlining user and application management.
• Scalable and flexible, as the network grows or shrinks.

Use Cases

• Secure User Access Management, only authorized personnel can access the resources, with username, password, MFA, etc.
• Partner Collaboration, inviting from other organizations.
• Application Access Control, integration with applications, so we don’t have to create new authentication systems for new apps.
• Managing device based access, ensuring the devices are compliant with the policy of the environment.