Sales: 678.967.3854
Support: 866.252.6363
If you are looking to organize your company's information, you need an active directory program. Program software can manage your employees and their login details.
Moreover, you can provide them access to various internal and external resources. There are cloud-based resources available for you to use for your company. The best example of this is the Microsoft Azure Active Directory.
But how does an Azure Active Directory help your organization manage their employees and the flow of information? We will go through all of it in this guide, so keep reading.
Azure AD (Azure Active Directory) is a cloud-based management service for access and identity. It assists corporations and firms in helping employees sign in. It also grants them access to various organizational resources.
This closure service can assist in accessing external resources like MS Office 365, the Azure Portal, and various other SaaS applications.
Moreover, they can access internal resources like apps on the corporate intranet and network. This cloud-based service allows you to access any programs or services.
Azure Active Directory or Azure AD is the next evolution of access and ID management available on the cloud. Microsoft Inc introduced Active Directory Domain Service back in the day with Windows 2000.
The program can manage various infrastructure systems and components on-premises by single-ID per user.
This approach goes up by a few notches allowing your organization's Identity as a Service across the cloud. Most IT admins are well aware of Active Directory Domain Services. But Azure AD is different.
Active Directory helps organizations create internal uses manually or enables the provisioning of an automatic system that works in-house. You can integrate it with your HR system, such as Microsoft Identity Manager.
On the other hand, modern organizations use Azure AD to sync IDs to the cloud. This service adds support to create users on cloud HR systems automatically.
Active Directory allows organizations to create external users manually in an external AD forest. Therefore, it results in admin overhead to manage the lifecycle of any external IDs or guest users. Azure AD provides a special class ID to support external identities to ensure validity.
Moreover, one of the primary differences between Active Directory and Azure AD is that Active Directory does not natively support SaaS applications.
Instead, you need to do the work using a federation system like AD FS. Nevertheless, Azure AD supports SaaS apps such as SAML, WS-, and OAuth2.
Furthermore, Active Directory does not natively support mobile devices, and you will have to go to any third-party solutions. But this is not the case with Azure AD as it supports mobile devices and provides device state information.
Apart from that, Active Directory also does not support anything outside Windows without any thirc-party solutions. But this is not the case with Azure AD. It works with Linux/Unix virtual machines.
Azure AD can be a huge benefit for IT admins. They use this cloud-based service for controlling access to their applications and other sources as per their business requirements.
For instance, you can use this service for multi-factor ID authentication when accessing various organizational resources.
Moreover, you can use this service to automatically provision your cloud applications and the current Windows Server Active Directory. These cloud-based services include Microsoft Office 365.
Besides that, Azure AD can give you powerful tools to keep your user IDs safe automatically and meet your access governance requirements.
App developers can benefit from Azure AD as they can use it as a standard approach to use single sign-on to their apps. Therefore, as an app developer, you can work with the user credentials that already exist.
With Azure AD, you can also access APIs that can assist you in building personalized application experiences with existing organization data.
As a subscriber to all these online programs and services, you can already use Azure AD. Furthermore, each online tenet of these services is an Azure AD tenant. Therefore, you can iimmediately begin to manage your access and integrate your cloud applications.
MS Online services like MS 365 or MS Azure need Azure AD signing in and assisting in ID protection and management. Subscribing to any of these online business’ services, you will automatically access all other free-of-cost features.
For enhancing your corporate Azure AD implementation, you can also add paid capabilities if you upgrade to Premium P1 or P2 licenses. These are paid licenses that are developed right on top of our current free directory.
Therefore, they ensure easy self-service and enhance monitoring. They also allow more secure reporting and access for all mobile users of your platforms.
This service provides group and user management on-premises with directory syncing. Some added features include basic reporting, self-service password changing for all cloud users, single sign-in, MS 365, and other SaaS applications.
Apart from free features, with the P1 license, you will get hybrid users to access both cloud and on-premises resources. In addition, this feature supports advanced administrations, including self-service group and dynamic group management, and MS ID Manager.
Moreover, it supports write-back capabilities to ensure self-service resetting of passwords for all on-premises users.
Apart from frees and P1 license features with P2 licenses, you can use active directory ID protection. It ensures risk-based conditional access to all the applications and various other critical resources.
There are additional licenses available that you can use for various B2C and B2B purposes. You can manage IDs and access across different platforms and access other management solutions using these services.
Here are some of the features that you will have access to when you have chosen your Azure AD license:
You can manage your cloud applications and your on-premises applications with single sign-on, SaaS apps, and Application Proxy using the MY Apps portal or Access Panel.
You can manage Azure AD self-service password resetting, along with multi-factor authentication, smart lookout, and customize your banned password list.
You can develop applications that can sing in all MS IDs, get tokens to call MS Graphs and other MS APIs, or even use them for custom APIs.
This service allows you to manage your external partners and guest users. You can do so while keeping control over your corporate resources and data. While with B2C services, you can control and customize all user profiles using your applications.
You can manage access to your cloud applications and how your cloud on-premises devices access all the corporate information.
It allows you to manage license assignments, access applications and set up delegates using administrators and group roles. You can also use Azure AD to provide single-user ID authorizations to all resources and authentication.
You can manage your firm's ID through a business partner, employee, app access, service or vendor controls, and perform access reviews. It allows you to detect potential vulnerabilities that influence your firm's ID and configure various policies to take appropriate actions for resolving them.
It enables you to provide your Azure services with auto-managed ID in Azure Active Directory that authenticates an Azure AD authentication service, e.g., Key Vault.
Moreover, you can control, manage, and monitor the access within your firm. With PIM or privileged ID management, you can work and access various business online services Microsoft provides.
You can gain insights into usage patterns and security patterns within your corporate environment.
You conveniently do all administrative work in your Azure AD portal. It includes creating a new tenant for your firm. Before you begin creating a new tenant, make sure you have access to a subscription. If you don't, you can create a free account and try out the service.
Once you sign in to your Azure portal, you can create a new tenant for your firm. Your new tenant will represent your firm and assist you in managing a specific instance of MS cloud service for your external and internal users.
After creating your new Azure AD tenant, you become the first user of that particular tenant. Being the first user, you will have the Global Admin role. You can check your user account by navigating the Users page.
By default, you are selected as the technical contact. However, you can change the technical contact info in the Properties section.
If you do not wish to continue using this service, you can permanently delete the tenant by going through the following steps.
Azure Active Directory has revolutionized ID and access management for your employees and the users of your company's resources.
It provides you with various controls and access features that you can even use with your smartphone, which was not possible previously.
Avoid "VMware Nightmares" by Knowing Common Issues and Solutions
Troubleshooting VMware issues is all about headache prevention. Many of the most common VMware issues and error messages are preventable if you have a good protocol for monitoring updates. Good VMware troubleshooting is actually proactive troubleshooting. Let's go line by line to reveal the VMware issues that are most likely to rear their heads.
Problem: You Have Outdated VMware Tools
While it's common to discover that tools are outdated, you may also find that you're bumping into errors because some tools were never installed. The second cause is common because some of the updates sent with VMware Tools require manual updates from administrators. You'll see error messages pop up when updates are missed. If you have outdated or missing tools, you'll need to either update or install the VMware Tools from the vSphere client. Your summary will direct you to any VMware Tools updates needed. Some updates can be performed without reboots.
The Problem: You Have Outdated VM Network Devices
Performance lags are common if you haven't updated VM network devices. Performance lags also happen when incompatible updates cause you to operate at throttled performance levels that are primarily caused by surplus IRQ requests. The fix is to update your VM hardware by going through the "Upgrade VM Compatibility" process under "All vCenter Actions." You'll also have to add the appropriate virtual network adapter.
The Problem: Memory Limitations
VMs that are moved from pools with limitations may keep the limitations after the move without admin awareness. As a result, applications may degrade or fail due to lack of memory access. To solve this issue, it's necessary to find memory limits. The next step is to scan machine inventory and browse individual configurations for memory limits.
The Problem: VM Snapshot Size and Age
While snapshots preserve virtual memory and disk data, they can create performance issues if they aren't maintained properly. Snapshots become problematic when they become a week old. Snapshots over 5GB can also cause problems. The most common issue surrounding VM snapshots is improper snapshot storage caused by vCenter's inability to recognize snapshots that are out of sync. The solution is to remove snapshots after backups are completed. The difficult part of removal is locating snapshots. Generally, implementing an automated system for snapshot management that identifies snapshots is recommended.
Make a Plan for Managing VMware Issues
A management protocol is essential for handling common VMware issues that lead to performance issues before they impact performance. Proactive monitoring of the performance of virtual machines is recommended for staying ahead with quick, efficient solutions. At DynaSis, we help enterprises stay one step ahead of VMware issues by making it easier to detect, diagnose and solve problems. Reach out today for your demo.
Cisco troubleshooting follows many of the basic principles of any type of detective work. You need to be predictive, detect anomalies and source out why anomalies occurred. The easiest way through it for many admins is an analysis of the network's Layer 3 path. The goal here is to:
Cisco devices often repeat the same common issues. While predictability can expedite a diagnosis, the reality is that there are many nuances nested within common Cisco problems that often lengthen the process. The list of common Cisco errors includes:
Of course, troubleshooting requires tools. Cisco has a whole trove of them waiting to help you detect, diagnosis and fix your network infrastructure problem. Look at what's in your kit when troubleshooting a Cisco issue:
Cisco troubleshooting requires a library of mapping and information. Fortunately, getting your Cisco errors handled is simple with DynaSis. Reach out today for network support that lets you streamline a library's worth of troubleshooting required for a smooth, secure network.
Support for Office 2016 for Mac ended in October of 2020. While this isn't breaking news, you may be trying to get caught up with updates and security if you're still running Office 2016 apps. While your 2016 apps will continue to function on your Mac, you could be at risk. Take a look at the fast facts to know about Office 2016 for Mac being phased out.
First, there's some good news. Office 2016 apps won't disappear from your Mac just because they are no longer supported. There's also no worry that any data will be lost. However, there's still a lot at stake by not jumping ship from this rapidly fading version. Those who continue to use Office 2016 for Mac need to understand that support and updates will no longer be provided. Here's the gist:
Any business still using Office 2016 for Mac is vulnerable. Fortunately, it's effortless to upgrade to a newer version for a seamless transition that leaves you with smooth, secure operations. Microsoft is recommending an upgrade to Microsoft 365 for business users. Microsoft 365 offers access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other essential apps. In addition to computer and browser access, Microsoft 365 also offers a subscription option for Mac and PC access.
Moving beyond Office 2016 for Mac doesn't have to shake up the way you do everything. The DynaSis team can help you plan a undisruptive upgrade that ensures you're safe and supported every time you open your apps. The process starts with removing your existing Office 2016 for Mac license. Reach out today to move to a supported Microsoft version without hassles!
Microsoft officially ended support for Office 2010 on Oct. 13 of 2020 without any extensions or extended security updates offered. This also covers Outlook 2010. While Office 2010 apps will continue to function, continuing to use the suite creates serious security vulnerabilities. Here's what to know now that Microsoft 2010 support has gone dark:
This is really Microsoft's way of saying that you’re on your own with Office 2010. There is no benefit to clinging to Office 2010 just because it's what your enterprise has been using for a decade. In fact, enterprises resisting the transition by sticking with a lifeless product are really only creating unnecessary risks and bottlenecks when upgrading to a newer version is so simple! Upgrading to a more recent Office version will offer access to the latest features, patches, and updates to improve both functionality and security. In addition to enjoying more accessible internal communication with your upgrade, it's going to be easier to collaborate with vendors and clients by getting on the same page.
The recommendation from Microsoft for businesses and enterprises is to jump to Microsoft 365 for business users to get access to the latest Office versions. Jumping ship from the outdated, high-risk Office 2010 product doesn't have to be overwhelming! If you've been running on 2010, the difference will be like night and day once you get to a better version equipped for the workflow of today instead of the workflow of a decade ago! DynaSis can help you breeze through this software upgrade with customized settings to enhance usability and function for all network users.
Over a decade ago, before Habitat for Humanity was working with DynaSis, they were having issues with their previous managed service provider. They were not receiving the response time that was needed for their IT issues. The communication and reporting that they expected was not happening. It was time for them to find a managed service provider who could hold up to their expectations and help run their IT environment smoothly. Habitat for Humanity reached out to multiple providers to figure out who would be the best fit for what they were looking for.
The DynaSis team visited Habitat on site and ran a network and security assessment. Once this was reviewed and analyzed, Chas Arnold, DynaSis's VP of Managed IT Services, met with the CEO of Habitat for Humanity and explained the processes that DynaSis could put in place for them to help things flow more smoothly and efficiently. Habitat for Humanity was pleased with what DynaSis could offer in terms of IT support, partnership and communication.
“Habitat for Humanity has been a great customer since day one. We enjoy working with their staff. We want our customers to be able to focus on running their business while we manage their IT. We make sure to go the extra mile to ensure that,” said Arnold.
DynaSis has been working with Habitat for Humanity since 2005. Aaron Sibley, Site Design and IT Project Manager, has enjoyed working with DynaSis and feels that DynaSis acts in a proactive manner to bring issues to his attention before they become problems. "Because of this we almost always have a solution in place long before it is needed. Everything that I have ever used DynaSis for, both collaborations and big projects, have run very smooth and on time,” said Sibley.
Before working with DynaSis, the Center for the Visually Impaired was having issues with their Managed Service Provider. Their previous provider was reactive and not proactive. The Center for the Visually impaired felt that they were constantly putting out fires and patching things. They had no real idea about the condition of their infrastructure and there was not a long-term plan in place to address current and future needs. This was causing too many issues and it was time for a change.
When it was time for Chris Hester, Vice President of Finance and Operations, to start researching new managed service providers, he knew just the person to contact. Chris had worked with Chas Arnold, DynaSis's VP of Managed IT Services, in the past and was hopeful that DynaSis could provide the level of service that they were looking for. Chris and Chas reconnected and the DynaSis team met with the Center for the Visually Impaired to discuss their infrastructure and design a detailed, proactive IT plan.
The Center for the Visually Impaired has seen vast improvement in their IT environment since switching to DynaSis. They are still working on making their IT infrastructure the best that it can be and will be getting new equipment in their server room in the near future. This new equipment will make their systems quicker and more efficient, and also reduce their monthly expenses.
“Our entire staff has seen the results and improvements in our IT environment. It feels like we are already light years ahead of where we were and it should only get better as we complete the new server project,” said Chris Hester, Vice President of Finance and Operations.
Hester stated that the DynaSis approach to customer service is fantastic and that there is always a DynaSis employee available to help them when in need. The help desk engineers assist with any technical tickets that are submitted for the Center for the Visually Impaired employees. A Technical Account Manager (TAM) is assigned to the account and is the main day to day contact. The TAM develops a proactive plan to make sure that their systems and processes are always up to date.
“I would not hesitate to recommend any business to hire DynaSis for their IT Managed Service needs. They will make sure that you have the best possible IT infrastructure and systems that fit within your budget,” said Hester.
Before working with DynaSis, Toland Mizell Molnar was having issues regarding their data backups and equipment. They wanted to have their data backed up on an hourly basis and an equipment replacement schedule in place. They started their search for a Managed Service Provider to help them manage their IT issues.
After speaking with numerous Managed IT Support Providers; Chas Arnold, DynaSis's VP of Managed IT Services, provided the most comprehensive and detailed plan. Chas and the DynaSis team ran a Network and Security Assessment for Toland Mizell Molnar. The findings and recommendations were reviewed, and a plan was put into place. DynaSis provided Toland Mizell Molnar with a structured IT plan that made them feel comfortable and stay within their allocated budget.
After choosing to work with DynaSis, Toland Mizell Molnar was assigned a Technical Account Manager who helped them create a strategic IT plan to handle the challenges they were facing. This was a key component that helped them feel more informed and up to speed on what was going on.
“DynaSis builds great relationships and the project managers take the time to understand your business and how they can positively impact your day.” James Molnar, Managing Partner, Toland Mizell Molnar.
The consistent communication between DynaSis and Toland Mizell Molnar has helped to ensure that their IT processes flow seamlessly. Toland Mizell Molnar is now handling their IT in a proactive manner and experiencing less issues overall.
“DynaSis is a good Managed Service Provider to work with. With IT services, you don’t know what you need sometimes until it is too late but DynaSis helps avoid this with proactive planning,” said Molnar. Toland Mizell Molnar appreciates the technical support from the help desk and the strong guidance the engineers provide. James enjoys working with his Technical Account Manager and feels that any problems they have can be taken care of in an effective and timely fashion.
Zac Brown Collective, formerly known as Southern Ground, was experiencing a lack of attention and service to their complex IT environment from their previous Managed Service Provider. Harold Earls, President and COO of Zac Brown Collective, stated that they have a “super serve mentality”, and therefore they expect the same in return. They were not receiving this on a consistent basis.
Harold worked with DynaSis at his previous company before he was employed with Zac Brown Collective. Chas Arnold, VP of MIT Services, stayed in touch with Harold over the years after Harold switched companies and touched based often to see if he needed any help at his new roles.
When Chas heard that Harold was not happy with his current Managed Service Provider, he offered to have the DynaSis team run a Network & Cyber Security Assessment. The DynaSis team ran the Assessment and met with the Zac Brown Collective team to discuss all of their current IT pains and requirements.
The DynaSis team analyzed the results, reviewed the pain points and came up with a plan and recommendations for Zac Brown Collective. A detailed plan was put into place and solutions were designed to cover all of the specific requirements that Zac Brown Collective needed support for.
Harold said that he felt DynaSis was honest, transparent and detail oriented with their plan. With his past experience working with DynaSis and after reviewing the IT plan and recommendations they had in place, Harold knew that it was the right choice to move forward with selecting DynaSis as their Managed Service Provider.
“I had a great experience when I worked with the DynaSis team and Chas in the past at my previous company. After reviewing the plan that they put together for Zac Brown Collective, I had no doubt that their expertise and solutions were the right choice for us to move forward with,” said Harold.
DynaSis has been servicing Zac Brown Collective for multiple years and providing the level of “super serve mentality” that they were looking for. “Zac Brown Collective has a complex IT structure and DynaSis has done a great job at providing quality and consistent service to maintain their infrastructure,” said Harold Earls. “It is my experience that you get what you pay for and if you want the best you pay for the best and DynaSis fits that bill.”
Before working with DynaSis, Communiqué was working with another IT partner and didn’t feel like they had a relationship where they could ask for recommendations and guidance regarding IT policies and best practices. They weren’t confident that their hardware/software was being properly backed up and protected with the latest security patches. There was no accurate reporting or IT planning in place. They did not feel like they were being consulted with IT advice from their IT partner so they decided to speak with DynaSis.
The DynaSis team has helped resolve the challenges that Communiqué was facing in the past. There is no longer any doubt about proper backups and IT planning. “DynaSis offers so much more than the typical IT support company. They offer dedicated account managers that are truly eager to help your business achieve success with any IT related need. They offer quarterly reports to provide insight into potential issues that could arise within your company’s infrastructure/network. They are proactive partners that help alleviate any fears you might have about the security of your company’s data/network/equipment,” said Christal Young, Director of Information at Communiqué.
Communiqué is highly satisfied with the results they have seen since signing on with DynaSis. They predict they will continue to see consistent results as their partnership continues. “The customer service far exceeds my expectations, and engineers are always confirming that the service has been performed to our expectations,” Young said.
© 1993-2022
(Privacy Policy)
DynaSis HQ
950 North Point Parkway
Ste 300
Alpharetta, GA 30005
24x7x365 Technical Support 866-252-6363
Sales Inquiries 678.504.6486
U.S. based Data Centers
Alpharetta (Atlanta), GA
12655 Edison Dr.
Alpharetta, GA 30005
Brentwood (Nashville), TN
7100 Commerce Way #25
Brentwood, TN 37027
