Users then have the option to use Credential Manager to store their credentials. Windows uses the Schannel Security Support Provider to open a Transport Level Security/Secure Sockets Layer (TLS/SSL) connection for this function. When new users sign in to websites that are enabled to use Microsoft accounts, they are redirected to the nearest authentication server, which asks for a user name and password. The Microsoft Store is an example of this association. Users' credentials are validated by a Microsoft account authentication server that is associated with a website.
The Microsoft account allows users to sign in to websites that support this service by using a single set of credentials. Many of the user's settings, preferences, and apps can be shared across devices. When a user signs in with a Microsoft account, the device is connected to cloud services. It has user-defined secrets, and consists of a unique email address and a password. Microsoft account was previously called Windows Live ID.
Microsoft sites, services, and properties, as well as computers running Windows 10, can use a Microsoft account as a means of identifying a user.
This topic for the IT professional explains how a Microsoft account works to enhance security and privacy for users, and how you can manage this consumer account type in your organization.
