Compare AWS Directory Service vs. Amazon Cognito vs. Microsoft Entra ID

AWS Directory Service for Microsoft Active Directory, commonly referred to as AWS Managed Microsoft Active Directory (AD), allows your directory-capable applications and AWS services to seamlessly utilize a managed version of Active Directory within AWS. This service is based on genuine Microsoft AD technology and eliminates the need for data synchronization or replication from your on-premises Active Directory to the cloud. Users can leverage standard Active Directory administrative tools and utilize inherent features like Group Policy and single sign-on. With AWS Managed Microsoft AD, integrating Amazon EC2 and Amazon RDS for SQL Server instances into your domain becomes straightforward, along with the ability to utilize AWS End User Computing (EUC) offerings such as Amazon WorkSpaces for AD users and groups. This service facilitates the migration of applications dependent on Active Directory and Windows-based workloads to the AWS environment. Additionally, AWS Managed Microsoft AD enables the application of Group Policies for managing EC2 instances while effectively supporting AD-dependent applications hosted in the AWS Cloud. Ultimately, this solution simplifies enterprise operations by providing a robust and scalable directory service in the cloud.

Amazon Cognito provides a seamless solution for integrating user registration, login, and access management into both web and mobile applications. It is capable of accommodating millions of users while enabling sign-ins through popular social identity platforms like Facebook, Google, and Amazon, alongside enterprise providers that utilize SAML 2.0. The User Pools feature of Amazon Cognito offers a robust and secure user directory that can efficiently manage hundreds of millions of users. As a fully managed service, it simplifies the setup process without the need to worry about server management and infrastructure. Users can authenticate via social platforms including Google, Facebook, and Amazon, in addition to enterprise identity solutions like Microsoft Active Directory through SAML. Furthermore, Amazon Cognito User Pools adheres to recognized identity and access management standards such as OAuth 2.0, SAML 2.0, and OpenID Connect, ensuring compliance with various regulatory standards including HIPAA, PCI DSS, SOC, and ISO certifications. This makes it an attractive choice for organizations looking to implement secure user authentication. Overall, Amazon Cognito stands out as a comprehensive solution for managing user identities effectively while maintaining high-security standards.

Microsoft Entra ID, previously known as Azure Active Directory, serves as a robust cloud-based identity and access management solution that integrates essential directory services, application access control, and sophisticated identity protection measures. Enhance your organization's security with this cloud identity solution, which effectively links employees, clients, and partners to their applications, devices, and valuable data. Utilize robust authentication methods and risk-adjusted access policies to secure resource access without sacrificing user experience. Ensure a quick and straightforward sign-in process throughout your multicloud infrastructure to boost user productivity, minimize password management time, and enhance overall efficiency. Centralize the management of all identities and access to applications, whether they reside in the cloud or on-premises, to gain better visibility and control over your organization’s resources. This comprehensive approach not only protects sensitive information but also fosters a seamless and efficient working environment for all users.