The action of obtaining and installing software designed to synchronize on-premises directory services with a cloud-based identity platform is a crucial step for many organizations. This process facilitates seamless integration between local user accounts and Azure Active Directory (Azure AD), now known as Microsoft Entra ID. As an example, IT administrators might need to acquire the necessary installation package to begin configuring synchronization rules.
Implementing this connectivity offers several key advantages. It enables single sign-on (SSO) capabilities, allowing users to access both cloud and on-premises resources with a single set of credentials. This enhances user productivity and reduces administrative overhead. Furthermore, it centralizes identity management, improving security and simplifying compliance efforts. Historically, this bridge between environments was established to streamline the transition to cloud services, reducing friction for end-users and enabling a more manageable hybrid IT infrastructure.