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Data Protection Issues

How to Manage Microsoft Defender XDR Connector in Microsoft Sentinel

Rana GarciaRana Garcia Oct 9, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to understand how the Microsoft Defender XDR connector works within Microsoft Sentinel and whether individual service connectors are still necessary.

How to Manage Microsoft Defender XDR Connector in Microsoft Sentinel
Product
Microsoft Sentinel
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Integrating Microsoft Defender alerts and ensuring proper setup of Sentinel connectors for centralized security monitoring.
Observed behavior
The Microsoft Defender XDR connector brings in alerts from multiple Defender services, but individual service connectors may still be required depending on advanced data and integration needs.
Before you start

Ensure you have the appropriate administrative permissions, such as Security Administrator or Global Administrator, in your Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365 environment before modifying Sentinel data connectors.

Solution 1Recommended

Review and Configure Sentinel Data Connectors

Compare the Microsoft Defender XDR connector with service-specific connectors to ensure you are meeting your data integration requirements.

While the Microsoft Defender XDR connector centralizes alerts from Defender for Endpoint, Identity, Office 365, and Cloud Apps, specific scenarios may dictate the use of standalone connectors for deeper raw data ingestion.

1
Open Microsoft Sentinel

Sign in to the Azure portal and search for 'Microsoft Sentinel', then select your designated workspace.

2
Access Data Connectors

In the left-hand navigation menu under the 'Configuration' section, click on 'Data connectors'.

3
Search for Defender XDR

Use the search bar to locate the 'Microsoft Defender XDR' connector and click on it to open the connector page.

4
Compare Ingestion Needs

Review the connector's documentation and data types. If your organization requires specific raw data logs not covered here, search for and configure the individual service connectors (e.g., Defender for Office 365) to complement the integration.

Review and Configure Sentinel Data Connectors
Connector Verification: Always verify your ingestion costs and potential data duplication when running both the centralized XDR connector and individual service connectors.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What services does the Microsoft Defender XDR connector cover?

When enabled in Microsoft Sentinel, it can centralize alerts and incidents from Defender for Endpoint, Defender for Identity, Defender for Office 365, and Defender for Cloud Apps.

Do I still need individual service connectors if the Defender XDR connector is enabled?

Yes, depending on your organization's specific data needs. Individual service connectors might still be necessary for pulling in specific raw data logs or handling custom integration requirements not fully covered by the centralized XDR connector.

Where can I find advanced support for Sentinel connector configuration?

For advanced questions regarding incident behavior, entities, and complex integrations, you can seek guidance from experts in the Microsoft Defender XDR community on the Microsoft Tech Community website.