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Entra ID: The Importance Of Backing Up Your Identity Platform
Table of Contents
Introduction: What is Entra ID?
If your business uses Microsoft 365, you already rely on identity services to secure access to apps, data, and users. Entra ID is Microsoft’s enterprise identity and access management (IAM) platform—previously known as Azure Active Directory (Azure AD). It handles everything from login permissions to secure cloud app access.
Entra ID isn’t just for large enterprises—it’s essential for any Microsoft 365 user that wants to stay secure, compliant, and efficient. And the bonus is, if you’ve got Barracuda Cloud to Cloud Backup, you already have Entra ID included.
Why Microsoft 365 Businesses Should Care About Entra ID
Many businesses assume Microsoft 365 comes fully secured out of the box. That’s not quite true.
Many data items within Entra ID do not have a recovery mechanism native to the platform, not even the Recycle Bin. Unplanned removal of data from Entra ID will disrupt user and device access to business systems – any loss of integrations within Application Registrations will stop business process.
You need Entra ID to:
- Secure user identities
- Set access policies
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
- Manage devices and conditional access
With threats like phishing and credential theft on the rise, identity is your first line of defence. Entra ID helps stop unauthorised access before it even starts.
Key Benefits of Entra ID for Everyday IT Use
- Single Sign-On (SSO): Staff only log in once to access all M365 services
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Stops 99.9% of credential attacks
- Conditional Access: Grant or block access based on location, device or role
- Self-service Password Reset: Reduces IT helpdesk tickets
- Secure App Integration: Supports thousands of third-party SaaS apps
Entra ID vs Azure AD: What’s the Difference?
Technically, Entra ID is the new name for Azure AD. Microsoft rebranded Azure AD to Entra ID in 2023 as part of a wider Entra product family. There’s no change to how the service works—only the name and the long-term vision around identity governance.
If you hear Azure AD or Entra ID, they mean the same platform.
Common Use Cases: How Businesses Use Entra ID Today
- Granting secure access to Microsoft 365
- Integrating identity into HR systems
- Controlling guest access to SharePoint/Teams
- Enforcing policies for Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
- Securing VPN access with conditional policies
Whether you’re managing 20 staff or 2,000, Entra ID simplifies identity management while locking down risks.
Managing Access, Identities, and Conditional Policies
With Entra ID, businesses can:
- Group users by department or location
- Control access to specific services (e.g. restrict finance data)
- Set rules like “Only allow logins from the UK”
- Block access to outdated devices
These controls help reduce human error, insider threats, and accidental exposure. You’re in charge of who sees what.
MFA, SSO, and Zero Trust with Entra ID
Entra ID is the gateway to Zero Trust Security. It enforces continuous validation, not just one-time login.
- SSO means less password fatigue
- MFA ensures identity is verified with phone or app-based approval
- Risk-based access blocks high-risk logins automatically
You don’t need to buy bolt-on solutions—it’s already part of your Microsoft 365 environment.
Barracuda Entra ID Backup Options
Below is a table of what features are available to you if you have Cloud-to-Cloud backup from Barracuda already. If you wish to backup everything listed you would need Entra ID Premium.
| Feature |
Entra ID (Included with Cloud-to-Cloud Backup) |
Entra ID Premium |
|---|---|---|
|
Users |
|
|
|
Groups |
|
|
|
Roles |
|
|
|
Administration Units |
|
|
|
App Registrations |
|
|
|
Audit Logs |
|
|
|
Authentication Method Policies |
|
|
|
Authentication Strength Policies |
|
|
|
BitLocker Keys |
|
|
|
Conditional Access Policies |
|
|
|
Device Management |
|
|
|
Enterprise Applications |
|
|
|
Named Locations |
|
|
Can You Backup Entra ID Without Existing Barracuda Products?
Yes. Cloud to Cloud backup for Entra ID is a standalone Barracuda product. You can use it without having any Barracuda software.
But if you do use Barracuda Cloud to Cloud already, the integration with Entra ID boosts both platforms. Identity protection meets data security in one cloud-native setup.
Why Entra ID + Barracuda Makes a Stronger Security Stack
Entra ID secures user access. Barracuda secures your data and files. Together, they give:
- Continuous identity verification
- Automated backup and restore for emails, Teams, SharePoint
- Seamless user onboarding and offboarding
This combo:
- Reduces attack surface
- Protects against ransomware and phishing
- Simplifies user lifecycle and compliance
It’s the perfect match for businesses on Microsoft 365.
FAQs About Entra ID
Is Entra ID free?
Yes. There is a free tier included in all Microsoft 365 plans, with extra features in P1 and P2 tiers.
Is Entra ID different from Azure AD?
No. It’s a rebrand with the same core services.
Do I need Barracuda to use Entra ID?
No, but they work well together.
Can Entra ID help with compliance?
Yes, especially around access auditing and GDPR.
How do I find out what Entra ID tier I have?
Ask us now or check your Microsoft admin.
Work with Qual Limited: Your Microsoft Identity & Security Partner
At Qual Limited, we help UK businesses make the most of their Microsoft 365 setup. That includes ensuring Entra ID is properly deployed, configured, and used to reduce security risks.
Whether you need help integrating with Barracuda, setting conditional access policies, or training your team — we’re here.
Let’s secure your business identities the smart way.
Contact James: Free Consultation
At Qual Limited, we specialise in streamlining IT procurement and fulfilment for businesses of all sizes. Our approach includes:
- A dedicated Personal Account Manager to handle your IT needs
- End-to-end procurement support, from vendor selection to delivery
- Strategic cost-saving solutions tailored to your budget
- Access to an extensive network of global IT vendors
With 30 years of experience, we understand the challenges of IT procurement and provide customised solutions to eliminate inefficiencies, reduce costs, and improve IT fulfilment speed.
IT procurement doesn’t have to be complex. Qual Limited simplifies the entire process, ensuring you get the right IT solutions at the right price, without the usual frustrations and delays.
Book a consultation today with your dedicated Personal Account Manager and discover how we can streamline IT procurement, enhance efficiency, and drive cost savings.
Book your consultation now and take the stress out of IT procurement with Qual Limited
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James McKee
Senior Cyber Security Specialist
Phone Number:
01293 400729
Biography
James, our Senior Cyber Security Specialist, has been a key part of Qual since 2011. With over a decade of experience, James is dedicated to protecting your business from cyber threats. He combines deep technical knowledge with a proactive approach, ensuring your systems are secure and risks are minimised. Whether it’s implementing the latest security measures or responding to incidents, James is committed to keeping your data safe and your business running smoothly
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