Microsoft Active Directory vs Microsoft Entra ID

Struggling to choose between Microsoft Active Directory and Microsoft Entra ID? Both products offer unique advantages, making it a tough decision.

Microsoft Active Directory is a Network & Admin solution with tags like identity-management, access-control, authentication, authorization, security, microsoft.

It boasts features such as Centralized network administration, Fine-grained access control, Group Policy management, Kerberos-based authentication, LDAP integration, Single sign-on, Hierarchical data storage and pros including Improved security, Easier user/resource management, Role-based access control, Centralized configuration, Simplified authentication.

On the other hand, Microsoft Entra ID is a Security & Privacy product tagged with single-signon, multifactor-authentication, selfservice-password-reset, active-directory, office-365.

Its standout features include Single sign-on, Multi-factor authentication, Self-service password reset, Role-based access control, Adaptive authentication, Integration with Active Directory and Office 365, and it shines with pros like Enhanced security, Increased productivity, Reduced IT costs, Simplified access management, Seamless integration with Microsoft ecosystem.

Feature	Microsoft Active Directory	Microsoft Entra ID
Overall Score	N/A	N/A
Primary Category	Network & Admin	Security & Privacy

Product Overview

Microsoft Active Directory

Description: Microsoft Active Directory is a directory service that enables managing identities, access, and security in a corporate network. It centrally stores information about users, devices, and other resources for finding, accessing, and managing them.

Microsoft Entra ID

Description: Microsoft Entra ID is an identity and access management (IAM) solution that provides single sign-on, multi-factor authentication, self-service password reset, and more. It integrates with Active Directory and Office 365 to manage identities and access.

Key Features Comparison

Microsoft Active Directory Features

• Centralized network administration
• Fine-grained access control
• Group Policy management
• Kerberos-based authentication
• LDAP integration
• Single sign-on
• Hierarchical data storage

Microsoft Entra ID Features

• Single sign-on
• Multi-factor authentication
• Self-service password reset
• Role-based access control
• Adaptive authentication
• Integration with Active Directory and Office 365

Pros & Cons Analysis

Microsoft Active Directory

Pros

• Improved security
• Easier user/resource management
• Role-based access control
• Centralized configuration
• Simplified authentication

Cons

• Complex setup/management
• Potential single point of failure
• Requires training/expertise
• License costs

Microsoft Entra ID

Pros

• Enhanced security
• Increased productivity
• Reduced IT costs
• Simplified access management
• Seamless integration with Microsoft ecosystem

Cons

• Complex setup and configuration
• Steep learning curve
• Can be expensive for smaller businesses
• Limited customization options

Pricing Comparison

Microsoft Active Directory

• Subscription-Based

Microsoft Entra ID

• Subscription-Based