Microsoft Active Directory Authentication using Kerberos for MySQL Enterprise

Beginning with MySQL 8.0.26, MySQL Enterprise Edition supports Kerberos-based authentication, allowing users to integrate MySQL Server security with existing infrastructure like Microsoft Active Directory or Azure AD. This integration enables the use of existing user names, passwords, and permissions to enhance security through established AD rules. Supporting both MIT (GSSAPI) and Microsoft (SSPI) Kerberos implementations, the feature allows for single sign-on capabilities. The process requires setting up Kerberos Client Libraries on the MySQL Server, enabling the Kerberos Server Side plugin, and mapping MySQL Service Principal Names to Active Directory users. This approach simplifies credential management and leverages advanced security features through MySQL's pluggable authentication system, facilitating seamless integration of AD authentication with MySQL Enterprise Edition hosted on Linux servers.