Abstract

In this article, we are going explore the approach and the challenges that occur during the migration from Okta an identity and access management (IAM) solution to Azure Active Azure Active Directory a Microsoft’s multi-tenant, cloud-based directory and identity management service.

About Our Client

The client, a multinational organization, had been using Okta as their primary identity and access management (IAM) solution for several years. However, due to a strategic organizational decision, they decided to migrate their IAM infrastructure from Okta to Azure Active Directory (Azure AD).

Business Challenges

Business Needs

Seamless transition of all application

There should be smooth transaition of all client application from Okta to Azure AD.

Data Migration

All user data and configurations should be migrated from Okta to Azure AD seamlessly without any data lose.

Maintain Secutiry Compliance

Migration process should adhered to the exisiting level of security and compliance.

Seamless User access

Migration without disrupting the access to the application and resources by the user.

Challenges

Data Integrity

The primary challenge for TechPrescient was to migrate user data and configurations from Okta to Azure AD seamlessly, ensuring no data loss or disruption to user access.

Integration with Existing Systems

The client had several applications and systems integrated with Okta for user authentication and authorization. We needed to ensure a smooth transition and minimal impact on these integrations during the migration process.

User Experience

Maintaining a seamless user experience was crucial for the client. They aimed to avoid any disruption to employees' access to applications and resources during the migration process.

Security and Compliance

As a multinational organization, the client had stringent security and compliance requirements. We had to ensure that the migration process adhered to these requirements and maintained the same or higher level of security compared to their existing IAM solution.

Migration Approach

1. Planning and Assessment

• The team conducted a thorough assessment of the client's existing Okta environment, including user accounts, groups, roles, and applications integrated with Okta.
• They identified any custom configurations or workflows within Okta that needed to be replicated or replaced in Azure AD.

2. User Data Migration

• TechPrescient designed and executed a data migration plan to transfer user accounts, attributes, groups, and roles from Okta to Azure AD.
• Leveraging Azure AD Connect, a Microsoft-provided tool, the team synchronized user data from Okta to Azure AD, ensuring a smooth transfer of user information while minimizing the risk of data loss or inconsistencies.

3. Application Integration

• The team identified the applications and systems integrated with Okta for user authentication and authorization.
• They evaluated the compatibility of these applications with Azure AD and planned for the reconfiguration or migration of these integrations.
• Where possible, they leveraged Azure AD's native integrations and protocols, such as SAML or OAuth, to establish secure connections between Azure AD and the applications.

4. Testing and Validation

• TechPrescient conducted comprehensive testing to ensure that the migration was successful and all user accounts, groups, and roles were functioning as expected in Azure AD.
• End-to-end testing of application integrations was performed to ensure seamless user access to applications using their new Azure AD credentials.

5. Rollout and User Communication

• Once the migration was validated, TechPrescient planned a phased rollout to migrate users from Okta to Azure AD in batches, based on business units and locations.
• Clear and effective communication was key during this phase, with TechPrescient providing detailed migration plans, highlighting benefits, and addressing any potential impacts. Support channels were established to assist users throughout the transition.

6. Monitoring and Support

• After the migration, TechPrescient closely monitored the Azure AD environment to ensure its stability and resolved any post-migration issues promptly.
• Support channels were available, accompanied by comprehensive documentation and training resources to help employees navigate and troubleshoot any IAM-related challenges.

Key Features of Solution

Data Integrity

All the user accounts, resources, configurations will be migrated seamlessly without any data loss.

Uninterrupted User Experience

existing applications and systems was reconfigured, ensuring uninterrupted access to resources.

Maintain Security and compliances

The migration process adhered to the clients stringent security and compliance requirements

Technology Used

Results and Impact

Successfully migration

successfully facilitated the migration from Okta to Azure AD, enabling the client to achieve their desired IAM infrastructure transformation.

Seamless data migration

User data and configurations were seamlessly migrated without significant disruptions or data loss

Adhered to the Security and compliances

The migration process adhered to the client's stringent security and compliance requirements, maintaining or enhancing the overall security posture.

Uninterrupted access to the resources

Integration with existing applications and systems was reconfigured, ensuring uninterrupted access to resources.

Conclusion

TechPrescient successfully facilitated the migration from Okta to Azure AD, enabling the client to achieve their desired IAM infrastructure transformation.