Introduction
The corporate network perimeter has vanished. Remote work, SaaS sprawl, and cyber threats have made identity the new security control plane. For years, Okta was the go-to identity provider. But today, a growing number of enterprises are migrating to Microsoft Entra ID. Why? Because identity modernization isn’t optional anymore-it’s mission-critical.
The Shift from Okta to Microsoft Entra
Okta is a strong IAM solution, but organizations invested in Microsoft’s ecosystem are asking: Why pay twice?
Here’s why the shift is accelerating
Cost Optimization
Many companies already pay for Microsoft 365 licenses that include Entra ID. Migrating eliminates redundant Okta costs.
Native Integration
Entra ID works seamlessly with Microsoft 365, Teams, Azure, and Defender-reducing complexity and improving security posture.
Zero Trust Alignment
Microsoft’s Zero Trust model is deeply embedded in Entra ID, offering conditional access, MFA, and identity protection out of the box.
Case in Point: A Global SaaS Company’s Journey
A leading SaaS productivity platform faced mounting Okta licensing costs and integration headaches. Netwoven stepped in to migrate 300+ users, 156 apps, and 66 Okta groups to Microsoft Entra ID.
How? Through a phased migration strategy
- Discovery & Mapping: Cataloged all users, apps, and security groups.
- Staging & Hardening: Configured MFA and conditional access in Entra.
- Phased Cutover: Migrated apps in waves to minimize disruption.
Result? A unified identity platform, reduced costs, and improved compliance.
A global SaaS company seamlessly migrated from Okta to Microsoft Entra ID, streamlining identity management within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem and cutting redundant costs. Discover how this shift enhanced security and efficiency.
Identity Modernization Drivers
Why modernize now? Three big reasons
1. Cloud-First Strategies
Legacy IAM struggles with hybrid environments. Entra thrives in multi-cloud setups.
2. Compliance Pressure
GDPR, HIPAA, SOC 2-regulations demand robust identity governance. Entra simplifies audits.
3. Operational Efficiency
One identity platform = fewer admin headaches and faster onboarding.
Migration Challenges & Solutions
Migrating isn’t trivial. Common hurdles
Policy Replication
MFA and conditional access must be mirrored.
Downtime Risks
Poor planning can disrupt user access.
Custom App Mapping
Hundreds of SAML/OAuth integrations need reconfiguration.
Solution: Netwoven’s proven approach-assessment, phased rollout, and post-migration validation-ensures zero business disruption.
Future Outlook: AI in Identity
Microsoft Entra is embracing AI for
Risk-Based Access
AI evaluates user behavior in real time.
Automated Governance
Predictive analytics flag anomalies before they escalate.
” Our experience working with the Netwoven team was excellent. They demonstrated a high level of expertise and admirable quality of work which helped us solve any challenges that occurred during the migration process and assisted us in the timely completion of the project. I’m extremely satisfied with the smooth execution of the project and the overall outcome achieved. “
Joaquin Alvarez – Senior Director of Relay GSE
Conclusion
Migrating from Okta to Microsoft Entra isn’t just cost-saving-it’s strategic. It’s about modernizing identity for Zero Trust and AI-driven security.
