How to Manage SuccessFactors Provisioning to On-Premises Active Directory
Question details
The user needs guidance on selecting the correct synchronization tool (Microsoft Entra Cloud Sync vs. Entra Connect) for SAP SuccessFactors user provisioning to an on-premises Active Directory.

- Product
- Microsoft Entra ID
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Planning or configuring HR-driven user provisioning from SAP SuccessFactors to an on-premises Active Directory environment.
- Observed behavior
- The user requires architectural guidance because supported scenarios differ based on synchronization requirements and existing infrastructure.
Before making architectural decisions, ensure you have mapped out your existing Active Directory forest structure and gathered your specific HR-driven provisioning requirements.
Consult the Microsoft Q&A Active Directory Community
Because supported architectures vary heavily based on existing configurations, seeking guidance from Microsoft specialists is the most effective way to ensure a stable deployment.
Microsoft Entra Connect and Microsoft Entra Cloud Sync support entirely different deployment scenarios. Entra Connect is suited for complex, unified architectures requiring advanced pass-through authentication, whereas Cloud Sync uses lightweight agents ideal for disconnected forests.
By consulting specialized Microsoft engineers in the community forum, you can get tailored advice that aligns with your specific SuccessFactors configuration.
Open your web browser and go to the official Microsoft Q&A website.
Use the search bar or tag filtering system to find the specific 'Active Directory' or 'Microsoft Entra ID' technical community.
Submit a detailed question including your SAP SuccessFactors provisioning method, current forest topology, and specific synchronization requirements to receive expert architectural guidance.

Document Your Enterprise Architecture with WPS Office
While planning complex Active Directory synchronizations, you need a reliable tool to draft IT policies, deployment plans, and architecture documentation. WPS Office is a lightweight, highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Office that is perfect for IT professionals.
- 1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the Free Download button.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
- 3. Start documenting: Open WPS Writer to begin drafting your Active Directory deployment strategies and network diagrams.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Microsoft Entra Connect and Cloud Sync?
Microsoft Entra Connect is a comprehensive sync tool suitable for complex on-premises environments requiring advanced device writeback and pass-through authentication. Cloud Sync relies on lightweight provisioning agents and manages the sync configuration in the cloud, making it ideal for disconnected Active Directory forests.
Can I use both Entra Connect and Cloud Sync in the same architecture?
Yes, they can be used simultaneously in certain topologies. For example, you might use Cloud Sync to manage users in an acquired company's disconnected AD forest, while maintaining Entra Connect for your primary corporate forest.
Where can I find official documentation for SuccessFactors HR-driven provisioning?
Step-by-step tutorials and architectural guidelines are available in the Microsoft Learn documentation under the Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD) HR-driven provisioning section.




