Overview

Key Features

• User, group, and contact synchronization between on-premises AD and Microsoft Entra ID.
• Password synchronization to maintain consistent credentials across environments.
• Declarative provisioning with configurable rules and expression language for attribute flows.
• Scheduler that automatically runs sync cycles every 30 minutes by default.
• Prevent accidental deletes feature to protect against unintended data loss.
• Support for multi-forest environments and complex topologies.

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Installation and Configuration

1. Sign in to the Microsoft Entra admin center as a Hybrid Identity Administrator.
2. Navigate to Entra ID > Entra Connect > Cloud sync and download the on-premises agent.
3. Run the AADConnectProvisioningAgentSetup.exe installer and follow the configuration wizard.
4. Configure the service account (typically a group Managed Service Account) and connect to your Active Directory domain.
5. Complete the wizard to verify agent configuration and start synchronization.

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Troubleshooting

• Confirming which sync engine is in use (traditional Connect Sync vs cloud sync).
• Checking the scheduler status and sync logs.
• Reviewing attribute flows and rules for conflicts.
• Ensuring proper permissions for service accounts.

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Choosing Between Connect Sync and Cloud Sync

• Connect Sync: Best for complex environments requiring pass-through authentication, device writeback, custom sync rules, or AD FS federation. It provides granular control but requires more resources.
• Cloud Sync: Ideal for simpler topologies, smaller organizations, or scenarios prioritizing high availability and centralized management. It is less resource-intensive and aligns with Microsoft’s strategic direction for hybrid identity.

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  Microsoft recommends evaluating your environment and requirements before choosing between the two, as cloud sync is the future replacement for the traditional sync engine once full feature parity is achieved.

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