Hybrid active directory definition
A hybrid active directory (AD) is a combination of on-premises AD and cloud-based Azure AD, used to manage and authenticate users, devices, and resources across both environments. Hybrid AD enables organizations to maintain their existing on-premises infrastructure while leveraging the benefits of cloud services, providing a seamless experience and centralized control for IT administrators.
Hybrid active directory examples
- Single sign-on (SSO): Hybrid AD enables users to access both on-premises and cloud-based resources with a single set of credentials, simplifying the authentication process and improving user experience.
- Conditional access: Hybrid AD allows organizations to define and enforce access policies based on user, device, and resource attributes, ensuring secure access to sensitive data and applications.
- Device management: Hybrid AD enables IT administrators to manage devices across on-premises and cloud environments, streamlining device enrollment, configuration, and compliance monitoring.
Pros and cons of an hybrid active directory
Pros:
- Simplified user authentication with SSO.
- Centralized control for IT administrators.
- Seamless integration with existing infrastructure.
Cons:
- Increased complexity due to managing two environments.
- Potential security risks if not configured properly.
Tips for using a hybrid active directory
- Ensure proper configuration and synchronization between on-premises AD and Azure AD to prevent authentication issues.
- Use Azure AD Connect to synchronize user accounts, passwords, and groups between on-premises AD and Azure AD.
- Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for enhanced security.
