How to Integrate Biometric Authentication with Active Directory
Integrating biometric authentication with Active Directory can be a simple process. If you already use Azure Active Directory, it’s as simple as using the built-in MFA. If you’re not using Azure, there are other options, like Okta, that we recommend. Here’s a guide.
What is biometric authentication?
Biometric authentication refers to fingerprints, facial recognition, voice recognition, and other elements users can utilize to authenticate their identity.
Frequently, biometric authentication is used as a second authentication tool. For example, a user may enter a password and then be prompted to submit a fingerprint as a second proof of identity. In some cases, biometric authentication can be faster and more “friction-less” than more conventional authentication factors.
How do I deploy biometric authentication in Windows Active Directory?
There are a variety of ways to deploy biometric authentication for Windows Active Directory. For example, if you’re looking for fingerprint authentication across Windows devices, Microsoft makes this possible via Windows Hello.
Windows Hello takes advantage of Mobile Device cameras and fingerprint readers, and laptops with fingerprint readers.
For proven biometric authentication across all devices and operating systems, we look to products like Okta. Okta provides single-sign on, and can be configured to allow fingerprint authentication with various APIs or add-ons, like Imprivata.
How do I deploy biometric authentication in Windows Active Directory using Azure?
- Microsoft Azure makes fingerprint biometric authentication easy.
- By allowing administrators to select the option within the Group Policy options (Computer Configuration > Policies).
- There are three kinds of deployment:
- On-Premise Deployment
- Hybrid Deployment
- and Cloud Deployment.
Can I deploy facial recognition or voice authentication in Windows Active Directory using Azure?
Yes, Microsoft offers FIDO2 security keys, which support biometric authentication, including facial recognition, to Azure Active Directory, Per Microsoft:
“Using a FIDO2 security key, the Microsoft Authenticator app, or Windows Hello, all Azure AD users can now sign in without using a password.
These strong authentication factors are based off the same world class, public key/private key encryption standards and protocols, which are protected by a biometric factor (fingerprint or facial recognition) or a PIN. Users apply the biometric factor or PIN to unlock the private key stored securely on the device. The key is then used to prove who the user and the device are to the service.
In addition, to help you get started on your own passwordless journey, we’re rolling out new public preview capabilities, including:
- A new Authentication methods blade in your Azure AD admin portal that allows you to assign passwordless credentials using FIDO2 security keys and passwordless sign-in with Microsoft Authenticator to users and groups;
- Updated capabilities in the converged Registration portal for your users to create and manage FIDO2 security keys;
- Ability to use FIDO2 security keys to authenticate across Azure AD-joined Windows 10 devices on the latest versions of Edge and Firefox browsers.”
Can I integrate biometric authentication with Active Directory if we don’t use Azure?
Yes. You can integrate biometric authentication with Active Directory with non-Azure cloud data centers via Okta, Idaptive, and other IAM solutions.
For example, Okta offers thousands of pre-integrated applications for immediate use, including biometric authentication options. Then, Okta makes management seamless, plus:
“[Okta] enables delegation of continuous monitoring, reporting, and management. Any changes or updates to a user will synchronize their access policies in real-time while maintaining an audit trail. This way, IT teams can easily generate accurate reports on user status and health.”
Do I need a Biometric Authentication consultant near me?
The most important factor is experience and effective workflow, whether in-person, on-site, virtual, or off-site. That said, we think working with a biometric authentication consultant near you is an advantage. This will allow your consultant to better communicate with existing IT teams, and better understand your current information architecture.
A non-local consultant becomes a good option if they follow security best practices, and have an established virtual workflow.
Why? Location is less significant when virtual workforce tools are effectively adopted by consultant and client, whether a small business or global enterprise. Plus, on-site specialists can become costly. Bottomline, look for a biometric authentication consultant who offers an excellent communication process, clear workflow, and custom security solution for your business.
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About Sennovate
Sennovate delivers custom identity and access management solutions to businesses around the world. With global partners and a library of 1000+ integrations, we implement world-class cybersecurity solutions that save your company time and money. We offer a seamless experience with integration across all cloud applications, and a single price for product, implementation, and support. Have questions? The consultation is always free. Email [email protected] or call us at: +1 (925) 918-6618