How to automate Microsoft Entra Connect Directory Sync from CoreView

This procedure enables remote initiation of Microsoft Entra Connect sync cycles directly from CoreView, enhancing your hybrid environment automation and management. 

Step 1: Create a Scheduled Task on the Microsoft Entra Connect Server

Create a scheduled task named RunScript that executes a PowerShell script to initiate an Microsoft Entra Connect synchronization.

PowerShell Script Example (Save as C:\Temp\ADSync.ps1):

Import-Module ADSync
Start-ADSyncSyncCycle -PolicyType Delta

• Name: RunScript
• User Account: SYSTEM
• Trigger: As needed or on a schedule (e.g., daily, hourly)
• Conditions: Run whether the user is logged on or not
• Privileges: Run with highest privileges

Best Practice: Store the PowerShell script in a reliable, secured folder (e.g., C:\Temp\ADSync.ps1) and protect it using NTFS permissions.

Step 2: Configure Remote PowerShell Access

Enable secure remote access for CoreView to invoke the scheduled task.

On the Microsoft Entra Connect Server:

1. Enable PowerShell Remoting

Enable-PSRemoting -Force

2. Assign Permissions to CoreView Service Account
   
   • Add the CoreView service account to the Local Administrators group on the Microsoft Entra Connect server.
     You can do this via:
     • Group Policy
     • Computer Management (Local Users and Groups > Administrators)
   • Verify the service account can use Remote PowerShell.

Step 3: Create the CoreView Custom Action

Define a CoreView Custom Action to remotely execute the scheduled task and trigger the directory synchronization.

PowerShell Script Example:

$Credentials = Get-CvADCredential
$session = New-PSSession -ComputerName server.domain.local -Credential $Credentials
Invoke-Command -Session $session -ScriptBlock {
    schtasks.exe /run /tn "RunScript"
}

• Replace server.domain.local with your actual Microsoft Entra Connect server hostname.
• Replace "RunScript" with your actual scheduled task name, if different.

How it Works:

• Retrieves the CoreView AD credential.
• Establishes a secure remote session with the Microsoft Entra Connect server.
• Launches the defined scheduled task, which runs the sync script.

Additional Tips

• Test each step independently before integrating into CoreView.
• Monitor scheduled task history in Windows Task Scheduler for troubleshooting.
• Regularly review access rights and script security.

By following these steps, you streamline directory synchronization and leverage CoreView for hybrid environment automation and compliance.