Azure Active Directory vs Duo Security

August 06, 2023 | Author: Michael Stromann
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Azure Active Directory
Your universal platform to manage and secure identities
6
Duo Security
Two-factor authentication done right. Duo Security lets your users use their mobile phones to secure their logins, protecting your company from account takeover. Duo’s solution is cloud-based, which means there's no software to install, and no server to set up. Our patented technology and drop-in integrations enable you to seamlessly integrate Duo into your existing application login workflow. Owned by Cisco.
Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) and Duo Security are both popular identity and access management solutions, but they serve different purposes and offer distinct features.

Azure AD is a cloud-based directory and identity management service provided by Microsoft. It provides a comprehensive set of features for managing user identities, enforcing access policies, and enabling single sign-on across various applications and services within the Azure ecosystem. Azure AD offers robust authentication and authorization capabilities, including multi-factor authentication, conditional access policies, and seamless integration with Microsoft applications and services.

Duo Security, on the other hand, is a cloud-based multi-factor authentication (MFA) and access security platform. It focuses primarily on enhancing security through strong authentication methods, including push notifications, SMS verification, and biometric authentication. Duo Security supports a wide range of applications and platforms, offering flexibility for businesses to add an extra layer of security to their authentication processes.

The key differences between Azure AD and Duo Security lie in their scope and primary focus. Azure AD is a comprehensive identity and access management solution designed to manage user identities and enable secure access across the Azure ecosystem. Duo Security, on the other hand, is a specialized MFA and access security platform focused on providing robust authentication methods and enhancing security.

See also: Top 10 Identity Management platforms
Azure Active Directory vs Duo Security in our news:

2021. Microsoft acquires access management startup CloudKnox



Microsoft has recently completed the acquisition of the IAM (identity and access management) startup, CloudKnox Security. CloudKnox specializes in aiding organizations in implementing the least-privilege principles to mitigate risks and prevent security breaches. By integrating CloudKnox's activity-based authorization service, Azure Active Directory customers will gain comprehensive visibility, continuous monitoring, and automated remediation for managing permissions across hybrid and multi-cloud environments. Microsoft has plans to seamlessly integrate CloudKnox with its other cloud security services, such as 365 Defender, Azure Defender, and Azure Sentinel. This acquisition aligns with Microsoft's strategic efforts to bolster its security portfolio, as demonstrated by its recent acquisitions of IoT security startups CyberX and Refirm Labs.


2018. Cisco is buying 2-factor authentication provider Duo Security



Cisco has announced its acquisition of security firm Duo Security for a sum of $2.35 billion. This acquisition aligns well with Cisco's objectives, as Duo Security offers a security solution that enables employees to utilize their own devices for adaptive authentication. Instead of relying on traditional key fobs with security codes, Duo's technology ensures secure authentication on any device. Within the Cisco ecosystem, this solution seamlessly integrates and provides a natural fit for CTOs seeking robust two-factor authentication measures. In recent years, Cisco has strategically acquired several notable companies including OpenDNS, Sourcefire, Cloudlock, and now Duo Security.


2017. Duo Security raised $70 million



Duo Security has recently secured $70 million in Series D funding, valuing the Michigan-based SaaS company at $1.17 billion. With a customer base of over 10,000 companies, Duo primarily focuses on providing a two-factor authentication app as its core product. Additionally, the company offers a range of other security products aimed at safeguarding users and their devices. Notably, Duo's solutions are cloud-based, eliminating the need for software installation or server setup. The injection of new funding will expedite the company's technological advancements and operational growth, while also facilitating the establishment of fresh partnerships to further enhance security measures.


2015. Duo Security unveiled new service to protect enterprises against data breaches



Duo Security, the startup specializing in two-factor authentication, has introduced a new product called Duo Platform. This innovative solution empowers IT teams to establish policies and automate network enforcement, while also monitoring the security profiles of devices attempting to access their systems. Leveraging its previous expertise, Duo's Platform product extends its capabilities further into customer networks. It enables IT administrators to define more precise rules regarding application access and the associated conditions. Moreover, it offers real-time insights into devices seeking to connect to applications and can proactively prevent data breaches by identifying access-related security threats as they occur.


2014. Two-Factor authentication service Duo raises $12 million



Duo Security, the provider of a cloud service that offers secure and user-friendly two-factor authentication technology, has successfully secured $12 million in Series B financing. Duo's authentication technology enables users to easily authorize a mobile device and authenticate themselves with a single tap through push notification. While Duo serves as a significant distinguishing factor for the company, it also extends support to more conventional forms of two-factor authentication, such as hardware-based tokens and SMS passcodes. Thanks to its extensive compatibility with various applications and its adaptability for enterprise deployment, Duo Security has experienced rapid growth, currently catering to over 5,000 enterprise customers. Among these customers are renowned names in the tech industry, including Facebook, Etsy, Box, Yelp, and Threadless.

Author: Michael Stromann
Michael is an expert in IT Service Management, IT Security and software development. With his extensive experience as a software developer and active involvement in multiple ERP implementation projects, Michael brings a wealth of practical knowledge to his writings. Having previously worked at SAP, he has honed his expertise and gained a deep understanding of software development and implementation processes. Currently, as a freelance developer, Michael continues to contribute to the IT community by sharing his insights through guest articles published on several IT portals. You can contact Michael by email stromann@liventerprise.com