identity based access

Identity based access in Windows environments refers to granting permissions based on a user's digital identity rather than on network location or device. A recent thread on WindowsForum discusses Microsoft's Entra-Only Azure Files SMB feature, which became generally available on May 19, 2026. This feature allows organizations to provide identity-based SMB file-share access to cloud-only Microsoft Entra ID users without needing Active Directory, hybrid sync, or managed domain controllers. The discussion highlights how this represents a broader shift toward cloud-native identity models, making traditional Windows infrastructure assumptions optional for file share access. The thread explores the implications for enterprise IT, particularly around simplifying access management and reducing on-premises dependencies.