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How to Join Devices to Microsoft Entra ID and Migrate User Data
Question details
The user needs to transition devices from an on-premises domain or local admin setup to Microsoft Entra ID while retaining and transferring existing user data.
- Product
- Microsoft Entra ID
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Migrating devices from an on-premises Active Directory to a cloud-based Microsoft Entra ID environment.
- Observed behavior
- Users require a reliable method to join the cloud directory and independently transfer their local Windows profiles, as joining does not automatically merge or migrate existing profiles.
Verify that your Windows edition is Pro, Enterprise, or Education, as Home editions do not support Microsoft Entra ID join, and ensure you have administrative privileges on the target device.
Join the Windows Device to Microsoft Entra ID
Connect a Windows PC directly to your organization's Microsoft Entra ID to enable cloud management and single sign-on.
Click the Start menu and select the 'Settings' gear icon, or press the Win + I keys simultaneously.
Click on 'Accounts' in the main settings menu, then select 'Access work or school' from the navigation pane.
Click the 'Connect' button. In the prompt that appears, select the option that says 'Join this device to Azure Active Directory' or 'Join this device to Microsoft Entra ID'.
Input your organization-provided email address and password, then follow any multi-factor authentication (MFA) prompts if required by your administrator.
Review the organization details and click 'Join'. Once the process is completed, restart your PC and sign in using your new Entra ID credentials.
Migrate Local User Profiles and Data
Since joining Entra ID creates a brand-new user profile on the PC, you must transfer existing files manually or via a migration tool.
Synchronize On-Premises Identities
Use Microsoft Entra Connect if you operate a hybrid IT environment and need to sync on-premises Active Directory accounts with the cloud.
Equip Your Newly Managed Devices with WPS Office
After successfully migrating your devices to Microsoft Entra ID, empower your workforce with WPS Office. It is a robust, lightweight, and free alternative to Microsoft Office, designed to keep your organization productive during and after IT transitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does joining Microsoft Entra ID delete my existing local user account?
No, your existing local or on-premises domain account remains fully intact on the computer. However, when you sign in with your new Microsoft Entra ID credentials, you will be logging into an entirely separate, empty user profile.
Why can't I see the option to join Microsoft Entra ID in Windows Settings?
The option to join Microsoft Entra ID (or Azure AD) is not available on Windows Home editions. Your device must be running Windows 10 or Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education to access this feature.
Is it possible to automate the user profile migration process?
Yes, for large-scale enterprise deployments, administrators often use Microsoft's User State Migration Tool (USMT) or reputable third-party profile migration software (like Profwiz) to automate moving data and settings to the new Entra ID profiles.
