As later versions of Windows Server were released, the directory was improved, and additional services were tacked on (like Active Directory Federation Services). This post covers what this directory is, what it provides, and the different editions that are available to enterprises based on their specific needs.Īzure Active Directory is a directory service that was built by Microsoft in 2000 and released with Windows 2000 Server edition. As a company scales, Azure allows teams to adapt their infrastructure to meet rising performance demands. They eliminate the need for many usernames and passwords and gain access to everything they need from one central portal.

Through Azure, employees gain access to a plethora of outside resources and SaaS applications that streamline productivity. Similarly, if a company uses Microsoft Teams or other applications in the Microsoft Office Suite, they are accessing them by logging into Azure AD. If a company employs OneDrive, Skype, or Outlook, they are already using Azure in some capacity. It is an identity provider and access management service.

Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) is a comprehensive cloud-based platform used around the world.

Azure active directory sign in