Definition
Entra ID, formerly Azure Active Directory, is Microsoft's cloud-based identity and access management service. It provides a centralized platform for managing user identities, controlling access to applications and resources, and enforcing security policies across an organization's digital environment. Entra ID enables single sign-on (SSO) capabilities, allowing users to access multiple applications with a single set of credentials, streamlining workflows and enhancing productivity. For instance, an employee can use their Entra ID account to log into their company email, internal applications, and cloud services like Microsoft 365 without separate logins for each. It is crucial to distinguish Entra ID from on-premises Active Directory, as Entra ID is a cloud service designed for modern, distributed workforces and cloud applications. Understanding Entra ID is essential for roles involving cloud security and identity management, and it is frequently covered in certifications like the CCSP and AWS SAA.