Microsoft Entra ID Domain Services provides managed domain services such as LDAP, Kerberos, NTLM authentication, and Group Policy in the cloud without the need to deploy, manage, or patch domain controllers.
It allows organizations to lift-and-shift legacy applications and workloads into Azure while maintaining compatibility with Active Directory authentication.
What’s special about Entra ID Domain Services?
- Managed domain services: Fully managed LDAP, Kerberos, NTLM, and Group Policy support.
- No domain controllers required: Microsoft manages the infrastructure, patching, and availability.
- Lift-and-shift ready: Migrate applications that rely on legacy AD authentication into Azure.
- Secure & compliant: Integrates with Entra ID for centralized identity and access management.
- Hybrid integration: Works alongside on-prem Active Directory or standalone cloud deployments.
Benefits of Microsoft Entra ID Domain Services
- Reduces IT overhead by eliminating domain controller management.
- Simplifies migration of legacy apps to Azure.
- Provides compatibility for applications that require AD authentication.
- Ensures high availability and security with Microsoft-managed infrastructure.
- Enables hybrid identity scenarios with minimal effort.
Bottom line
Microsoft Entra ID Domain Services is the ideal solution for organizations migrating legacy applications that depend on AD authentication. By removing the burden of managing domain controllers while maintaining compatibility, DBS helps clients simplify cloud migration and secure their hybrid environments.

