Setting Up Azure Active Directory Sync with On-Premises

Integrating Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) with your on-premises Active Directory (AD) allows seamless management of user identities across your hybrid environment. Here’s a step-by-step guide to set up Azure AD sync with your on-premises AD:

1. Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have:

• An Azure AD tenant.
• An on-premises AD domain.
• An Azure AD Connect tool installed on a Windows Server.

2. Install Azure AD Connect

1. Download Azure AD Connect from the Microsoft website.
2. Run the installer and follow the setup wizard.
3. Choose Express Settings for a simple installation, or customize settings if needed.

3. Configure Azure AD Connect

1. Sign in to Azure AD: Use a global administrator account.
2. Connect to AD DS: Enter your on-premises AD credentials.
3. Configure user sign-in: Choose the appropriate sign-in method (e.g., password hash synchronization, pass-through authentication, or federation with AD FS).
4. Select directories: Choose the AD forests you want to synchronize.
5. Filter users and devices: Optionally, select specific organizational units (OUs) to sync.
6. Optional features: Configure additional features like password writeback, Azure AD app and attribute filtering, etc

1. .

4. Sync Configuration

1. Review the configuration: Ensure all settings are correct.
2. Start synchronization: The initial sync may take some time depending on the number of objects in your AD.

5. Verify Synchronization

1. Check Azure AD: Log in to the Azure portal and navigate to Azure AD.
2. Verify users and groups: Ensure that users and groups from your on-premises AD are appearing in Azure AD.

6. Monitor and Maintain

1. Azure AD Connect Health: Use this tool to monitor sync services and troubleshoot issues.
2. Regular updates: Keep Azure AD Connect updated to ensure compatibility and security.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Sync errors: Check the Azure AD Connect sync logs located at C:\ProgramData\AADConnect.
• Account permissions: Ensure the account used for syncing has sufficient permissions.
• Firewall settings: Verify that necessary ports are open for communication between Azure AD Connect and Azure AD.

Conclusion

Setting up Azure AD sync with on-premises AD bridges your hybrid environment, allowing consistent and secure identity management. Follow these steps to configure and maintain your sync, ensuring a smooth and integrated experience for your users.